Continuing Education Programs

Scuba Skills Update

Intent

The SSI Scuba Skills Update program provides certified divers with a safe and enjoyable way to refresh and update their skills. It can also provide non-certified Open Water Diver students with another practice session before participating in their open water training dives.

Recommendation | If an Open Water Diver student’s last academic or pool/confined water session was more than six (6) months ago, use the Scuba Skills Update program to refresh their skills before they participate in their open water training dives.

Minimum Instructor Rating

An active status Assistant Instructor may conduct the Scuba Skills Update program.

Student Prerequisites

Minimum age: 10 years old.

Have at least one (1) of the following SSI certifications or an equivalent from a recognized training agency:

Open Water Diver

Junior Open Water Diver

Or

Be a non-certified Open Water Diver student that has completed all pool/confined water training dives.

Duration

There is no recommended duration for a Scuba Skills Update.

Depth Limitations

Maximum pool/confined water depth: 5 meters.

In-Water Ratios

15 years and older:

The student-to-instructor ratio is 8:1.

The ratio may increase to 10:2 with one (1) certified assistant.

The ratio may increase to 12:3 with two (2) certified assistants.

12- through 14-years old:

The student-to-Instructor ratio is 6:1.

10- and 11-years old:

The student-to-instructor ratio is 4:1.

No more than two (2) participants per instructor or certified assistant may be under the age of 12, and none of the remaining participants may be under the age of 15.

Minimum Supervision

An active status Assistant Instructor must directly supervise all academic and in-water activities.

Proximity

During in-water skill evaluations, the students must remain under direct supervision of the SSI Professional so that physical contact can be made at any time.

Requirements For Completion

Complete all academic and in-water sessions and assessments outlined in the instructor manual for Scuba Skills Update.

Issuing a Recognition Card

Upon completion of all academic and pool/confined water requirements, an Assistant Instructor may issue the Scuba Skills Update digital recognition card.