Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions our Course Director Andy Wilkinson is frequently asked about IDC’s and also some; we think you should ask before enrolling on the program.
How can I best prepare for the IDC/IE?
It is important to spend time studying your theory, as this will not be re-taught during the IDC Program. By studying, I mean using your PADI Diving Knowledge Workbook and Encyclopedia of Recreational Diving to ensure that you understand all aspects of the diving theory that you will be tested on. During the IDC, we will have a study session and give you a pre-assessment examination. The purpose of the sample exam is to know where you stand with regard to your level of knowledge. We can not emphasize enough that the time to study your theory is before the IDC, not during the IDC. You'll be learning many new things, so you'll want to spend your time learning these new subjects; not reviewing old subjects. You also need to complete the knowledge reviews in the Instructor Candidate Workbook prior to the start of the IDC. This should be done before you get here. Our advice is also to practice your skill circuit and to make sure you are familiar with skills from the Adventures in Diving Program, for example sheet bend, half-hitch and bow line along with rescue techniques from the Rescue Diver course including using both mouth to mouth and pocket mask.
How long is the course?
The course can be complete either in a 7 day format – IDC. Or two separate sections the AI conducted over a minimum of three days then at a subsequent date the OWSI program being a minimum of four days.
Who teaches the program?
A PADI Course Director must conduct the full IDC or the OWSI program. However a PADI staff instructor can conduct the AI portion of the program should you choose to do this separately.
What's so special about your IDC Program?
One of the most important aspects of your course will be the emphasis on real-world training. We believe that almost any Course Director can give you enough knowledge to pass the IE if that is your only goal. However, your goal should be to understand the PADI system to the point where you can be a successful employee or owner - a true diving professional. Because Andy has owned and run a successful dive centre here in the UK for over eight years and works with many others, he is able to draw upon a wealth of experience, which he puts into your IDC. In other words, we prepare you for your future; the IE is only a stepping stone. Choosing to do the IDC with Andy will make a big difference in your future diving career.
Many advertisers claim a 100% pass rate at the IE, do you?
Beware of the false advertiser. Many centers claim this but do not say which IE the candidates all pass on the first, second or ….
Also many will also claim this with the get out being that if you fail on theory it is not their responsibility. Successfully completing the IE is a logical conclusion of your preparation and subsequent development on the IDC program. Just as you would never put a student in the water you did not think was ready, likewise Andy will not recommend you attend the IE until both you and he feel you are ready to attend and be successful.
Many centers advertise the cheapest IDC why don’t you?
With price brings quality, those that can’t compete on quality compete on price. What would you like us to remove from the program to be able to do this? The experience of the Course Director and staff, quality, knowledge, professionalism, experience, patience, time, safety or ….
What materials do I require?
PADI have recently launched the IDC crew pack which is a rucksack containing most of the materials for the IDC, we recommend you purchase this to ensure you have all the materials you require. Should you only require individual items you can purchase these at level three discounts.
I have heard the course is very stressful & intense is that true?
The course is certainly very fast moving; however we will do our best to provide you with a relaxed low stress comfortable learning environment and to have some fun, after all you will be promoting that “diving is fun”.
How fit do I need to be?
You certainly need to be dive fit and have a current HSE Medical signed by a doctor. One of the performance requirements for the OWSI program is to perform a facedown, nonstop swim for 800m using mask, fins and snorkel.
After completing the course how long have I got before I have to attend an IE?
You have up to 12 months to attend an IE before having to repeat training; we can provide you with a full list of exams local to you. However it does make sense to attend the IE shortly after your IDC whilst everything is still fresh in your mind.
Is it possible to "Fail" the IDC Program?
No, it is impossible to fail the IDC - unless you just don't show up - as the IDC is a course, not an exam. Our IDC stresses development. As a result, you can relax while learning, knowing that mistakes are part of the process. Although there are performance requirements for successfully completing the course, there are no time limitations, so you may continue to progress under your Course Director's guidance. The goal is to create a low-stress environment in which you can learn to function as a PADI Instructor. This makes the IDC challenging, yet an enjoyable learning experience. The final evaluation of your knowledge and skills come later during the PADI Instructor Examination.
What is the most common area of the IE that candidates fail?
Theory exams! Study your theory and be prepared for the IDC. So far, none of my candidates have failed the I.E. this is due to good preparation beforehand.
What happens if I can’t complete the program?
We will work, within reason, with you to help you subsequently reach any performance requirements for the program not met during the normal course schedule.
When can I begin teaching?
As soon as the paperwork from your IE has be processed by PADI. Depending on your where your permanent address is, this could take between ten to fourteen days, don’t forget that here in the UK we need liability insurance registered with PADI International.
I have heard the HSE has very strong regulations in the UK does the program cover these?
Andy works as an expert witness for the HSE and so is able to give you invaluable insight into starting to establish the paperwork and procedures to help you follow these regulations.
Can A.I’s trained in the old program simply take the 4-day OWSI program?
Yes-but remember it is up to the CD to evaluate the candidate’s suitability so some may be asked to attend the whole program.
What if candidates do not have the opportunity to complete the independent study section?
Then the IDC must be extended by 2 days to allow for this study in class.
Where can the A.I. Course be conducted?
This can now only be conducted at 5 star IDC centre.
Are there any other costs involved?
Once you have paid your Dive Centre for the course fees and for any course materials, then there is the application fees payable direct to PADI.
Assistant Instructor: £ 41.13
OWSI: £ 94.00
Exam Fees: £381.88
If you have questions which are not answered here please do not hesitate to contact me and discuss your concerns