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:
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CLASSIFIED DIVE BUDDY COURSE
ADVANCED OPEN WATER PACKAGE
MASTER DIVER PACKAGE
ITINERARY
DIGITAL LEARNING
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.