Our Teaching Philosophy
The Scuba Store prides itself on providing a safe, supportive and enjoyable environment
in which to learn the skills necessary to explore the underwater world. Whilst diving
is about the ocean, the animals and the pleasure of being in and under the water, our
trips to the coast don’t focus solely on the dive course. In addition to teaching you
the best way to use your scuba equipment and passing on our knowledge of the ocean, we
feel that a scuba course should be an all-around experience. A walk on the beach,
an afternoon nap, a delicious dinner, a comfortable bed after your day’s diving are all
important aspects of your time at the coast.
By the end of your course, you will be a safe and confident scuba diver. You will also
have made new friends and be ready to either join us or embark on your own underwater
adventures.
Entry Requirements
Our scuba classes are designed for people who have never dived (or even snorkelled)
before. However, we need to know that you are comfortable in the water. We’ll therefore
ask you to complete a water skill assessment, which includes a 200-metre swim (no time
limit, any style you like) and a 10-minute survival float.
The minimum age is 10 years. There are certain restrictions placed on training age groups
between 10-12 and 12-15. We also need a dive medical confirming that you are fit for
scuba diving. This is a specific medical and not all doctors will do it. Contact the
shop for more details on age restrictions and dive medicals.
The 3 Facets of our Diver Training
Diver training consists of three parts.
Theory
We use a modern training system comprised of textbook, video/DVD, review questions and
a knowledge review exam. Dive theory is important but mostly simple to understand.
Conveniently, most of this information can be learnt at home leaving class time for
review and discussion.
Pool Lessons
In the pool you are introduced to your equipment and how to use it. These lessons are
usually scheduled over a couple of evenings so we don’t compromise our valuable
weekend time. However, if there is a conflict with our schedule we can make alternative
arrangements.
The Coast
The coast trips are the focus of our dive training. While we schedule a minimum of 6
ocean scuba dives, there is often time to do more diving. Many people are able to complete
7 or even 8 scuba dives on our course.
Our format suits all abilities. It allows those who may be a little less confident to
learn at their own pace and, for the enthusiastic diver, there is more time underwater
without the requirements to complete training exercises.
We do our diving around Ulladulla-Bawley Point. Bawley Point is a beautiful part of the
coast with attractive beaches, bays and rocky headlands. It also features one of the
best shore dives on the South Coast. We have dived this site hundreds of times and still
find it exciting.
Most of the dives will be from the shore. The locations will vary according to the ocean
conditions, time constraints and people’s abilities. You will also do a dive from a boat
from Ulladulla. For many, this is the highlight of the dive course.
We usually stay in our house at Bawley Point. This is a comfortable modern house 200
meters from the beach with accommodation for 8 people. Enjoyable surroundings, good food
and company are a high priority for us.
Scheduled Course Dates
We publish a list of scheduled dates between September and June. These courses consist of
a number of evenings in Canberra for pool and meetings and two weekends diving at the coast.
Ask about our full inclusive package of diving, accommodation and meals.
We have beginner dive courses starting:
We also teach year round on request offering courses personalised to individuals and catering
for both small and large groups. These courses can be adjusted to your own schedules. The
course theory can be completed on your own time. We will need pool time in Canberra during
the day or evening plus 3-4 days for diving at the coast.
More Info
If you have additional queries, please consult our list
of frequently asked questions
or contact the Scuba Store.
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