Open Water Instructor Training
The first step in qualifying as a BSAC Diving Instructor, including the Instructor cross-over
programme, is to attend the two-day Instructor Foundation Course (IFC) where the essential
elements of instruction are taught.

Members who have attained Dive Leader grade can complete the Theory Instructor Exam (TIE) at any stage after attendance on the IFC.

On completion of the IFC, members who are Dive Leaders, can further their teaching experience by attendance at an Open Water Instructor Course (OWIC). Following OWIC attendance and after further practice and experience at branch level those who have gained Dive Leader status can apply for the Practical Instructor Exam (PIE).

BSAC run Combined Instructor Events where candidates can complete all the elements for OWI (IFC, OWIC, PIE & TIE) in one intensive week of tuition and assessment.

Instructor Foundation Course


Minimum Qualification: Sports Diver

Course Aims: The two day Instructor Foundation Course (IFC) aims to teach divers the essential elements of instruction.

Course Dates & Venues: Instructor courses are held all over the country throughout the year. All bookings must be made directly through BSAC. Click here for a current list of dates and venues.

Theory Instructor Exam

Minimum Qualification: Dive Leader and must have attended the Instructor Foundation Course (IFC)

Course Aims: The one day Theory Instructor Exam (TIE) assesses students in BOTH delivering a classroom presentation and in their diving knowledge.

Course Dates & Venues: Instructor courses are held all over the country throughout the year. All bookings must be made directly through BSAC. Click here for a current list of dates and venues.

Open Water Instructor Course

Minimum Qualification: Dive Leader and must have attended the Instructor Foundation Course (IFC)

Course Aims: The one day Open Water Instructor Course (OWIC) aims at furthering practical instructional skills and teaching in open water.

Course Dates & Venues: Instructor courses are held all over the country throughout the year. All bookings must be made directly through BSAC. Click here for a current list of dates and venues.

Practical Instructor Exam

Minimum Qualification: Dive Leader and must have attended the Open Water Instructor Course (OWIC)

Course Aims: The one day Practical Instructor Exam (PIE) assesses students in delivering a practical lesson in open water.

Course Dates & Venues: Instructor courses are held all over the country throughout the year. All bookings must be made directly through BSAC. Click here for a current list of dates and venues.