IN THIS LESSON

Day 1: Skills and equipment (Pool)

On our first day we will meet at the pool. Your instructor will check you have completed the PADI e-learning and answer any questions before introducing you to your scuba gear.

Confined Water dives are the foundation of the PADI Open Water Diver course, where students familiarise themselves with equipment and safety rules. Then it’s time to take your first breaths underwater and learn core SCUBA skills, including:

Getting comfortable and controlled underwater

  • Equipment setup and pre-dive safety checks

  • Basic hand signals and underwater communication

  • Regulator clearing and recovery

  • Mask clearing

  • Buoyancy control

  • Alternate air source use

Developing Safety and Navigation Skills

  • Using a compass and basic underwater navigation

  • Buddy system and distance management

  • Air supply monitoring and management

  • Neutral buoyancy and trim refinement

  • Emergency procedures and equipment problem-solving

  • Correct ascent and descent procedures

Knowledge development themes

Throughout confined water training, students also cover theory components including; Dive physics and physiology (pressure, buoyancy, breathing), equipment care and maintenance, dive planning and safety protocols, environmental awareness and responsible diving practices. Initial learning takes place via PADI’s e-Learning app and face to face consolidation sessions will be held in the afternoons of days 2 and 3.