PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) offers the Instructor Development Course (IDC), which is designed for PADI Divemasters or equivalent who want to advance their career and become PADI Open Water Scuba Instructors (OWSI).
With its infectious energy and thriving diving community, Koh Tao is the ultimate destination for your Instructor Development Course (IDC). Discover the ins and outs of the requirements and qualifications specific to IDC in this lively paradise.
Are you ready to take the plunge and embark on an exhilarating journey as a PADI Instructor? Look no further than the captivating island of Koh Tao.
PADI IDC Program
The PADI IDC is split into the Assistant Instructor (AI) course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program. Before attending a PADI Instructor Examination (IE), participants must complete both parts.
Here's a brief overview of what each part typically entails:
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Assistant Instructor (AI) course: focuses on academic, confined, and Open Water teaching presentations. It also covers PADI standards and procedures for courses you can conduct as an Assistant Instructor.
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Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) program: This part of the IDC prepares candidates for the IE and provides further training on the entire PADI System. It focuses on the same things as the AI course but expands on these topics.
Finally, after completing the IDC, candidates attend the Instructor Examination (IE), a standardized, objective two-day exam conducted by PADI Instructor Examiners independent of your IDC training.
Dive Experience and Certification
To kickstart your IDC adventure, you must hold a PADI Divemaster or Assistant Dive Instructor qualification. Don't worry if you're certified by another recognized training organization – you're still welcome to join the fun! Just make sure you possess an equivalent leadership-level certification. Oh, and don't forget to keep your PADI membership current. Let's stay connected with the global diving family!
You must also be an Emergency First Response Instructor, but you can earn this rating during instructor training.
Dive, Dive, Dive
Showcase your love for underwater exploration by providing proof of at least 60 logged dives. Remember, the more dives, the merrier! It's important to note that to participate in the Instructor examination. You will need a total of 100 logged dives. So, let's dive and accumulate the necessary experience!
Ready, Set, Dive Theory
Dive theory may initially seem like a thrilling adventure, but fear not! It's all about understanding the fascinating concepts behind diving. Ensure you have at least six months of experience as a certified diver (Open Water Diver or equivalent). Brush your knowledge of physics, physiology, equipment, and dive planning. Let your inner dive theory enthusiast shine as you prepare to ace those theory exams!
Fit for Action
Before embarking on your IDC, ensure you have obtained medical clearance of fitness to dive. A doctor should sign and date your medical clearance form within the past 12 months. You have the option of visiting your local doctor or arranging the clearance here in Koh Tao before the start of the course. Safety first, folks!
Emergency First Response Primary and Secondary Care (EFR and CPR) Superhero Skills
Every aspiring PADI Instructor should be equipped to handle emergencies. Ensure your Emergency First Response training and Secondary Care (CPR and First Aid) are current within 24 months. In case your EFR certification has expired, fret not! You can quickly refresh your skills with an EFR Refresher in Koh Tao. Dive in with the confidence of a superhero, knowing you're fully prepared to handle any unexpected situations that may arise!
Swim and Tread
Being a PADI Instructor requires a certain level of physical prowess. Show off your swimming abilities by comfortably covering a distance of 800 meters while wearing a mask, snorkel, and fins. Additionally, demonstrate your endurance by treading water for a solid 10 minutes. These skills will not only boost your confidence but also enhance your safety.
Dive into Adventure
Prior experience in night dives, deep dives, and underwater navigation will add an extra sparkle to your IDC journey. These explorations will enhance your skills and ignite your passion for adventure.
Investing in your professional diving career is an investment in yourself and your future. Take the first step, pursue your dreams, and unlock your potential as a certified PADI Instructor in the stunning waters of Koh Tao.
What's next after completing the Instructor Development Course (IDC)?
After passing the IE, you become a certified PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI). As an OWSI, you can teach various PADI courses, from Open Water Diver to Divemaster, including various specialties.
Beyond OWSI, you can continue your professional development by gaining experience and pursuing additional training. You could specialize in teaching specific courses (like Deep Diver or Wreck Diver), become a Master Scuba Diver Trainer by certifying 25 PADI divers and earning five specialty instructor ratings, or eventually progress to higher levels such as IDC Staff Instructor, Master Instructor, and even Course Director (the highest instructor rating in PADI).
