PADI IDC – Extra Information

The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is packed with essential training components to ensure your success as a dive professional.

Below is a detailed breakdown of each element, so you know exactly what to expect and how we’ll support you every step of the way.

Classroom Presentations

Our IDC curriculum includes engaging presentations by our expert team to prepare you for teaching in the classroom, pool, and open water. These sessions last 1–2 hours and are interactive, with plenty of Q&A opportunities. You’ll receive a complete IDC schedule during the orientation session.

Candidate Teaching Presentations

Learn how to deliver effective teaching presentations, a key part of the Instructor Examination.

Prepare 3 mock presentations with our guidance.

Practice using examples, training aids, and upselling skills.

Receive personalized feedback and scoring from the Course Director.

Confined Water Workshops

Practice teaching in our heated pool under realistic conditions.

Act as a PADI Instructor with mock students performing intentional errors.

Conduct thorough briefings, demonstrations, and debriefings.

Gain feedback and scores based on your performance.

Open Water Workshops

Take your training to open water!

Conduct 2 skills per dive at our local lake.

Work in real-world conditions without demonstrations, focusing on observation and error correction.

Dive Theory & Standards Exam

Demonstrate your diving knowledge and understanding of PADI standards:

Dive Theory: Covers five subjects: Equipment, Physiology, Skills & Environment, Physics, and Decompression Theory. Mock exams available. We recommend purchasing PADI Dive Theory Online for the latest materials.

Standards Exam: Open-book multiple-choice exam using the PADI Instructor Manual and Guide to Teaching.

What If I Don’t Pass?

We’re confident in your success! However, if you need to repeat any modules from the IDC or IE, we provide free additional training to ensure you achieve your dream of becoming a PADI Instructor.

Do I Need My Own Dive Kit and Materials?

Dive Kit: While owning your own kit is expected for professionals, you’re welcome to use our high-quality school equipment during the IDC and IE.

Student Materials: Access to the latest student manuals from Open Water to Divemaster is essential. Contact us if you need assistance acquiring these

Online IDC Study

Start your IDC journey with PADI’s self-paced online learning.

Complete 9 online modules before attending the in-person sessions.

Save time—our on-site IDC takes just 5 days!

What Happens After the IE?

Congratulations—you’ve accomplished something incredible! Whether you’ve completed your IDC with us in the UK, Dahab, or St. Lucia, your journey as a PADI Instructor is just beginning:

Freelance Opportunities: Start teaching immediately with our network of dive centers. Whether it’s in the UK or abroad, we’ll help you put your skills to work.

Shadowing Options: Build confidence by shadowing experienced instructors before taking on paid roles.

Career Growth: With access to some of the busiest dive centers, you’ll have plenty of teaching opportunities to gain essential experience.

Our support doesn’t end with your IE—we’re committed to helping you thrive as a professional PADI Instructor, no matter where you are in the world!