Contents
Ocean Diver Course Introduction 
About the Ocean Diver Course (this page)
- Prerequisites
- What You'll Learn
- Qualification: What That Means
- Learning Materials for e-learning element
- Required Gear
- Recommended Gear
- Welfare & Safeguarding
If you would like to speak to our Training Officer about starting this course, please speak with them at the clubhouse of a club night or send them an email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To enrol on the BSAC Ocean Diver course with Southsea Sub-Aqua Club, you must be 12 years or older and be considered "fit to dive"[1]. A basic level of comfort in the water is important and you will have to demonstrate that you can swim 200m in swimwear.
The BSAC Ocean Diver course has three main stages:
- On line course, learning at your own pace, including theory assessments on the basic principles of scuba diving. This element is payable directly to BSAC
- Minimum of five confined water lessons to learn the basics in the water (usually in a swimming pool) plus an optional dry suit dive
- Minimum of four open water dives to further develop your scuba diving skills
Qualification: What That Means
A BSAC Ocean Diver is defined as a diver who is competent to conduct dives:
- To a maximum depth of 20m
- With another BSAC Ocean Diver or with a BSAC Sports Diver, within the restrictions of the conditions already encountered during training, under the supervision of a Dive Manager
- With a Dive Leader or higher grade, to expand experience beyond the conditions encountered during training, under the supervision of a Dive Manager
- Not requiring mandatory decompression stops
- Under the on-site supervision of a Dive Manager with respect to site selection, conditions and dive plan
- Using enriched air (Nitrox)[2]as part of your diving within certain constraints
Learning Materials for e-learning element
This is payable directly to BSAC, the cost is not included in the SSAC training package. All the learning materials you need for the BSAC Ocean Diver course which includes
- Downloadable student guide and qualification record page
- Access to the BSAC 'The Diving Manual' for extra reading and knowledge
- BSAC 88 Decompression Tables
- Qualification card upon completion
Each course is taught using a student guide flipbook which consists of text, videos, and PowerPoint presentations with voiceovers.
At the end of each module, there are quizzes that need to be completed and passed. If the student passes each module with four out of five correct answers, the module will be signed off and they will be able to download a theory certificate for that module.
Swimwear and towel. All other equipment will be supplied during your training, except a dry suit or wet suit.
Although the diving equipment is provided, Ocean Diver trainees may wish to buy their own mask and snorkel. You may also wish to use a wet suit or t-shirt for added comfort during the pool lessons.
Previous page (Introduction)...
Next page (Course Content)... 
Return to the Training page...
[1] "Fit to dive" is assumed on the basis of a completed Self Certification Medical Form or a Certificate To Dive issued by an approved Medical Referee.
[2] Nitrox is a breathing gas containing more than 21% oxygen which is known to be beneficial in reducing the risk and symptoms of decompression illness.
