The Instructor Development Course is mandatory preparation to attend a PADI Instructor Exam and is divided into two sections, the Assistant Instructor course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) programme.
What we Offer
Assistant Instructor
Open Water Scuba Instructor Course with optional Master Scuba Diver Trainer extension
To achieve sign off as a PADI Instructor you also need to attend a PADI Instructor Exam (exam costs payable directly to PADI)
PADI Instructors are the most sought-after dive professionals around the world because they’ve completed the program that sets the standard for training dive professionals.
The Instructor Development Course (IDC) is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare experienced divers to become certified scuba diving instructors.
Conducted by our experienced team at Northampton Scuba School, and led by our Course Director, the IDC encompasses theoretical knowledge, practical teaching skills, and real-world application.
During the IDC, candidates learn about PADI standards and procedures, effective teaching techniques, risk management, dive theory, and business principles related to scuba instruction.
The course typically includes classroom sessions, confined water skill demonstrations, open water teaching presentations, and workshops to enhance teaching skills.
Assistant Instructor candidates complete around half of the elements of the full IDC and are then signed off by a member of Northampton Scuba School staff. Instructor candidates complete the full IDC, and must then pass the Instructor Examination (IE) with a PADI Examiner, which assesses their knowledge, teaching abilities, and dive skills.
Upon successful completion of the Instructor Exam, candidates earn the PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) certification, allowing them to teach and certify divers independently within the PADI system.
What's Included?
PADI Assistant Instructor/Open Water Scuba Instructor E Learning and slates
Updated Instructor Manual and Teaching Guides
All pool tuition and coaching
All open water tuition and coaching
The focus of the Instructor Development Course is on growth rather than assessment, fostering a low-pressure atmosphere that facilitates learning. Candidates are encouraged to relax and focus on skill enhancement, understanding that errors are integral to the learning journey. Throughout these courses, our team assumes crucial roles in supporting, guiding, mentoring, and advising candidates.
IDC/Assistant Instructor Course Prerequisites
DiveMaster/Dive Leader certification
18 years old
Medical clearance attesting to dive fitness signed by a physician within the previous 12 months.
Certified diver for six months.
EFR Primary and Secondary Care course completion (or qualifying training) within the last 24 months (we can provide if needed)
The full IDC course is run over 7 full days, though scheduling can be bespoke according to your own needs and time constraints.