No. Part 1 is designed for complete beginners.
Discover Scuba is a brilliant first taste if you would like to try breathing underwater before committing to the full course, but it is not a requirement. If you are ready to begin your qualification, you can start here.
Part 1 includes your PADI Open Water Diver eLearning, support from your instructor while you study, five private pool dives in our heated indoor pool, and premium scuba equipment for every pool session.
Once you have completed Part 1, you will have everything you need to continue to Part 2.
To complete the full PADI Open Water Diver course, you will need to swim 200 metres and float or tread water for 10 minutes.
You do not need to be a fast swimmer, but you do need to be comfortable and confident in the water. If you are still building that confidence, please speak to us before booking.
Yes. When you are ready, you can complete your four Part 2 open water dives with Dive Academy or at a PADI Dive Centre anywhere in the world.
Part 1 gives you the knowledge and pool skills to continue your training wherever your next adventure takes you.
You have up to 12 months from your final Part 1 training session to complete Part 2.
We recommend completing it sooner where possible, while your knowledge and pool skills are still fresh.
Students can begin Part 1 from age 10.
For students aged 10 or 11, Part 1 is an excellent way to complete the theory and build skills privately in our heated pool. We generally recommend students aged 10 or 11 complete Part 2 in warmer, clearer water abroad.
Part 1 is £599 per person.
When two friends or family members train together, it is £499 per person. You will still receive personal coaching, with no crowded class and no pressure to keep up.
Part 2 is arranged separately, either with Dive Academy or with your chosen PADI Dive Centre.
Any Part 2 training, equipment, travel or local fees are paid directly to the centre you choose.
Most people can learn to dive safely. Every student completes a medical questionnaire and, if needed, we will guide you through the next steps.
Please complete our medical questionnaire before booking if you have a medical condition or take prescription medication.
Yes. PADI calls this route a referral, but we call it Part 1 because it is clearer.
You complete your eLearning and private pool dives with Dive Academy, then bring your completed training record to Dive Academy or take it to any PADI Dive Centre to finish Part 2.
Not at all. Discover Scuba is designed for complete beginners and is a relaxed introduction to breathing underwater.
Your qualified PADI instructor will explain everything clearly, guide you step by step, and work at a pace that feels right for you.
Not for Discover Scuba or Bubblemaker. You do, however, need to feel comfortable in the water.
Your experience takes place in our heated indoor pool, with your instructor alongside you throughout. We will take everything at a pace that feels right for you.
If you decide to continue to PADI Open Water Diver Part 1, you will need to complete a 200 metre swim and float or tread water for 10 minutes. There is no time limit for the swim, and you can use any stroke.
If Open Water is your goal but you are still building water confidence, speak to us before booking. We will help you decide on the best place to begin.
No. Your pool session is private for you, your family, or your friends. You will not be added to a group of strangers.
That means more attention from your instructor and the freedom to enjoy the experience at your own pace.
Allow around 75 minutes for your Discover Scuba or Bubblemaker experience.
There is time to get comfortable with the equipment, enjoy your underwater adventure, take photos, and relax with hot chocolate afterwards.
Please bring swimwear, a towel, and a t shirt or rash guard to wear in the pool.
We provide everything else, including your mask, fins, tank, regulator, and all scuba equipment.
Absolutely. Children can begin their underwater adventure from age 8 with our Bubblemaker experience.
It is a wonderful way to share something genuinely different as a family, and we will make sure the experience suits the age and confidence of everyone taking part.
Most people can dive safely. Before booking, every participant completes a short medical questionnaire so we can make sure diving is right for them.
Complete the medical questionnaire before booking. If anything needs further consideration, we will explain the next step clearly. In some cases, this may include approval from your doctor.
Your next step depends on your age and where you would like your diving journey to take you.
For students aged 12 and over, PADI Open Water Diver Part 1 is the natural next step. You will complete theory and private pool dives with us, then finish Part 2 with open water dives at Dive Academy or at a PADI Dive Centre anywhere in the world.
For children aged 10 and 11, Part 1 can be a brilliant way to build skills and confidence at home. We recommend completing Part 2 in warmer, clearer waters abroad.
For younger divers, Scuba Stars is a fun way to continue building confidence and skills.
Book PADI Open Water Diver Part 1 on the day of your Discover Scuba experience and receive £99 off.
No. You can begin PADI Open Water Diver Part 1 as a complete beginner.
Discover Scuba is simply a relaxed, private way to experience breathing underwater before committing to the full course. If you decide to continue on the day, you will receive £99 off Part 1, including your theory and private pool dives.