Welcome to the Ocean Tribe Diver Learning Centre. We have tried to put together information and videos from across the diving world to help you understand and study dive theory. Check out each category in the Learning Centre to find explanations, videos, and more. We hope it helps you to prepare for your dive instructor training course and look forward to seeing you on the program. Along that journey to Instructor.
The SSI Classified Diving program has been created to enable persons with disabilities who might not be able to earn full certifications the ability to dive and get certified with different safety parameters. Learn to work with disabled divers.
BECOME AN SSI CLASSIFIED DIVE BUDDY AND SUPPORT DIVERS OF ALL ABILITIES
Do you want to learn how to confidently and safely assist a dive buddy with physical disabilities or sensory disorders? The SSI Classified Dive Buddy course is designed to provide specialised training, ensuring you have the skills and knowledge to dive alongside a Classified Diver in environments and depths suited to their training level. This program is perfect for Stress & Rescue certified divers who are passionate about making scuba diving accessible for everyone.
The program is structured to help you develop the expertise needed to provide the extra safety and care required when diving with a Classified Diver. Below is an overview of what you’ll learn and accomplish during the course:
DURATION
The SSI Classified Dive Buddy Course can be completed over 2 days. It will include classroom training and a pool workshop.
All dive and snorkel equipment, including air fills and weights
Classroom Training
Pool workshop with an SSI Instructor
Transfers within Diani
AVAILABILITY
The SSI Classified Dive Buddy Course is offered daily at Ocean Tribe. Live availability can be found via contacting us via WhatsApp / Phone or by checking the online booking calendar to book online.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
All dive course participants must meet medical questionnaire requirements to be able to dive on the course. Some conditions or medications may prevent you from diving. Visit the Can I Dive page to see if you meet the requirements before booking.
Start by completing SSI’s cutting-edge digital learning modules, designed for convenience and flexibility. Study at your own pace before beginning in-person training. Topics covered include:
Propulsion methods and conducting dives with Classified Divers
Classifying different types of divers and their needs
Medical considerations, such as amputations, spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and more
Understanding sensory and developmental disorders
Specialist equipment required for classified diving
Best practices for ensuring safety
Proper water entry and exit techniques
CLASSROOM TRAINING
On the first day of the program, you’ll dive into classroom sessions where you’ll discuss critical topics in classified diving.
Participate in group discussions, peer instruction, and interactive activities to reinforce key concepts.
Learn about medical conditions, adaptive techniques, and safety protocols specific to classified diving.
Complete the day with a final exam, requiring an 80% or higher passing score to proceed.
POOL WORKSHOP
The second day of the program takes place in a controlled pool or confined water environment, where you’ll put your knowledge into action:
Learn how to assist Classified Divers in performing Open Water skills, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the dive.
Practice four practical applications, including dry land preparation, entry/exit procedures, and adaptive techniques.
After successfully completing all requirements, you’ll receive the SSI Classified Dive Buddy certification. This certification qualifies you to dive with Classified Divers in environments and depths aligned with their training. Your digital certification card will be instantly available in the SSI app, making it easy to access and share.
WHY BECOME A CLASSIFIED DIVE BUDDY
By becoming a Certified Dive Buddy, you’ll play a vital role in creating inclusive underwater experiences. Your training will allow you to make diving more accessible and rewarding for individuals with disabilities, opening doors to a world of adventure for everyone.
Take the first step in making a difference. Enroll in the SSI Classified Dive Buddy Program today and help bring the wonders of the underwater world to all divers!
ADDITIONAL INFO
Prerequisites and Forms
Minimum age 10
When enrolling in an entry-level recreational diving certificate you must complete the following self-assessed medical declaration form before starting your training. If you answer yes to any of the health questions, you will need to bring the completed form with you to your physician to recieve a physician’s letter/medical clearance before you start your course.
What to Bring
Hat
Swimsuit
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Towel
Water Bottle
Extras
Camera Hire
Snacks and Beverages
T Shirt and Memorabilia
Do I need to be able to swim to scuba dive?
A question that we are constantly asked at Ocean Tribe is “Do I need to be able to swim to scuba dive?”. This is a more complicated answer than a simple yes or no, as it really depends on the experience you are looking to have.
If you are after getting your Open Water Diver licence or any other scuba diving certification then the straight answer in yes. On the entry level Open Water Diver and Scuba Diver courses there are swim and floating tests that you need to be able to accomplish in order to earn the dive certification. On the Open Water courses this is a 200m swim and a 10 minute tread or float.
