The BSAC Qualification Pathway
Ocean Diver
The Ocean Diver qualification is your first step into the world of scuba diving. It is a comprehensive course that teaches you everything you need to dive safely in open water to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Training takes place in three stages: pool sessions where you learn core skills in a safe environment, theory sessions covering diving science and safety, and open water dives where you put it all into practice in the sea.
At NWK, Ocean Diver training is delivered by our team of qualified volunteer instructors. You will train at your own pace — there is no rush. Most people complete the course in two to six months, depending on how often they can attend pool sessions and how quickly open water dives can be arranged.
Once qualified, you can dive with a buddy to 20 metres, join club dive trips, and continue your training towards Sports Diver.
Ocean Diver at a Glance
Sports Diver
Sports Diver at a Glance
The Sports Diver qualification builds on everything you learnt as an Ocean Diver and takes your diving to the next level. You will learn advanced skills including underwater navigation, delayed surface marker buoy deployment, deeper diving techniques, and rescue skills.
Sports Diver is the qualification that opens up the full range of UK diving. At 35 metres, you can access most recreational dive sites around the British coast, including deeper wrecks and reefs.
Once qualified, you are a self-sufficient diver capable of planning and executing dives with a buddy, managing your own decompression, and assisting in rescue situations. Many divers find Sports Diver is the sweet spot — a qualification that lets them dive almost anywhere they want.