IDC FAQ's
How long is the course?
4 days for the Assistant Instructor course, 6 days for the Open Water Scuba Instructor.
Do I need to have my own diving gear?
Yes, it is preferable to have all of your own diving equipment. You will need to own your own equipment to teach, and it is much better for you to do the IDC and IE in equipment you are familiar with and comfortable in.
What do I need to study before the IDC?
You will need to refresh your dive knowledge theory in full. You will be examined in 5 main topics, Physics, Physiology, Equipment, Recreational Dive Planner and Dive Skills and the Environment. You will need to re-read your Encyclopedia of Recreational Diving and go through your Diving Knowledge Workbook to be as prepared as you can before you come to the IDC. These topics are not ones we cover again during the IDC, so it is your responsibility to ensure you are ready to take the Assistant Instructor and Open Water Scuba Instructor exams when you arrive.
In addition you need to make sure you are totally familiar with the PADI Instructor Manual, as you will also complete a Standards exam. This relies on you being able to quickly access the information held in either the paper or CD version of the manual. Remember to bring the original CD with you, as you need to show this at the IE!
It is also a good idea for you to go into the water a few times to practice the skill circuit of 20 skills, to ensure you have complete mastery of these to demonstration quality. We will take time to practice these during the IDC, but the more you practice before hand, the easier it will be for you during the course.
I am transferring from another diving organisation to become a PADI Instructor. Will I have time to learn and practice any skills I have not done before?
I have had experience in past IDC's with candidates transferring from other diving organisations. You will have the chance to work with the other candidates, Staff Instructors and myself to practice skills in the PADI system and learn those you have not yet encountered.
What happens if I do not feel ready to take the IE at the end of the IDC?
During the IDC we take time for one-to-one counseling sessions. We will discuss your progress and concerns and find solutions to any problems. I will tell you honestly at all stages of the IDC your progress and readiness for the IE. If we decide you are not ready to take the IE, you are able to attend another IDC for no cost, and then can use the time in between to practice any areas that require work.
My mother tongue is not English, are you able to do the IDC and IE in another language for me?
I myself speak English and Japanese, but I have a number of experienced IDC Staff Instructors who will be able to work alongside me for your IDC and IE, meaning we can arrange for IDC's in English, German, French and Japanese. You will have all material presented to you in your mother tongue, and can give all presentations, briefings and debriefings in this language as well. The Examiner at the Instructor Examination will also be able to provide exams for you in your mother tongue, and hear all your presentations, briefings and de-briefings in the language you choose.