There are different schools to dive, but I suggest you to go for PADI.
Are you looking for a good cursus to learn scuba diving? PADI has the solution.
I immediately clarify one point: I am not paid by PADI to talk about them, I am not an instructor and I am not trying to sell PADI to you and I have no retrocessions or other arrangements with anyone to sell you PADI. I'm only telling you about it because that's what I learned and I find it very good.
Instead of making a long text, I will summarize the case for you in a few key points.
1. A structured approach
The courses are built in a logical and chronological way.
You progress by blocks in each level, which makes learning digestible.
The information is not given to you raw, but is explained, which allows you to read without the help of an instructor.
2. Course material
Specific material: each level has its own book (or digital version nowadays) and its videos.
Reading is easy.
Systematic plan; a short introduction, a general view of the course, the philosophy of the course followed by the chapters.
The chapters are subdivided into different themes and include a number of scenarios.
The objectives are indicated at the beginning of the chapter.
Small exercises (multiple choice questionnaires) by topic.
A knowledge review by chapter. This time, you develop your answer (yes will use your brains and talent for writing, cool isn'it).
3. Simplicity
No too many technical terms.
No exams, let's say knowledge checks instead, to make sure you have the basics to dive safely.
There is no superfluous. The material is rather concise and focuses on what is needed.
Several languages available if you are not fluent in English. A small advice, do take the exam in the same language as the course. I have seen folks who failed because they mixed up terms (in other words, they got the wrong translation).
4. Complete and rich cursus
You can start from scratch if you have never dived before, or take a course en route if you have already started your cursus with another system. Equivalences exist.
From PADI Open Water to Course Director (from first level to big boss), a wide range is available to you. Diving for leisure or make it your job, the choice is yours.
5. Price and quality
Course prices vary by country. It is therefore difficult to give you accurate indications. I invite you to check prices with schools directly or send me a message and I will search for you.
I find the value for money reasonable taking into account (a) the supporting material and (b) the quality of the teaching. As in all professions, certain personnel (here the instructors) will be better than others. But in general PADI, through its audits and its system, ensures a standard of quality
6. Acceptance
Most operators around the world accept PADI certifications. It is, with SSD in particular, the largest certification network with, in 2019, more than 137,000 professionals and 6,600 registered centers or schools. Over 27 million certifications have been given across 186 countries and territories. I know our French fellows will say that their system is also great (which is true) but I won't discuss it here since I am not too familiar with it.
7. PADI support
PADI is a serious, well-structured organization that has many professionals at your service. With headquarters by region they cover virtually the globe. Whether you are a professional or not, they are there for you.
Sincerely yours.
Ciao.
The Diving Bear
Comments