What will it cost?
The initial fee is £212 for the first year, which covers membership, the cost of the initial training materials and your pool training. Subsequent years cost £157. As part of the membership you will be also covered by the BSAC 3rd party liability insurance.
Further costs arise with Open Water diving and as you start to purchase your own kit.
Kit can be bought in stages, but for a FULL set, bought new, you could be looking at anything between £1200 and £2500. However, second hand kit is available, which reduces the outlay!

What does the training involve?
To achieve the first BSAC diver grade of Ocean Diver, you need to complete 5 practical lessons in the pool, 7 theory lessons followed by a multiple choice exam, and a further 5 practical lessons in open water.

How long is the training?
Pool sessions can be completed in as little as 5 weeks, but we always allow people to progress at a pace that suits them. Theory sessions about 5 weeks and Open Water depends entirely on you and what time you can commit.
As a club we try and hold one open water training day each month.

Where do I train?
Pool sessions are every Wednesday at Ponds Forge, from 8.30 – 9.30pm, but please arrive by 8.15pm for briefing and preparation.
Theory sessions will be on a different night, approx 5, 2 hour sessions, on days to suit most trainees.
Open Water sessions are then arranged through the Training Officer, often at a suitable inland site. At this stage you will need to buy or hire a dry suit.

Who do I contact if I cannot make a session?
The Training Officer, you will be given contact details.

What do I need to start?
Your own mask, fins and snorkel, but do ask our advice if you are unsure what to get.

What about the other kit I need?
On joining you will sign for your set of kit loaned from the club – the buoyancy jacket, regulators and cylinder – and take them away with you. You are responsible for these items, and for filling your cylinder when necessary. (£3 per fill, lasts 2-3 weeks pool use)
Upon qualifying as an Open Water Diver, all club kit must be returned, if you have not already done so.

How fit do I need to be?
You DO need to be a competent swimmer before starting training.
You also need to fill in a self-certification medical form. Anyone who has had chest/lung/back injury or surgery, asthma or ear problems, may have to consult a Medical Referee before being passed as fit to dive.

What next?
If you wish to join us, or find out more, please contact -