5 Days
Divemaster
18
6
The SSI Assistant Instructor Course at Dive Aran gives you the skills and confidence to begin teaching under supervision while building your experience in real world conditions.
You’ll learn how to assist with courses, conduct training sessions, and help new divers discover the underwater world all while surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Aran Islands.
This course can be taken on its own or as part of a longer professional pathway. Many candidates choose to combine the course with summer work experience at Dive Aran, leading naturally into the Instructor Course in September.
Note: The Assistant Instructor Course is also the first phase of the full SSI Instructor Training Course if you decide to go straight into the Instructor Course.
Take the course as a stand-alone program and gain valuable teaching experience. A perfect choice if you want to progress at your own pace or return later for the Instructor Course.
Join our May Assistant Instructor Course, stay with us through the summer as part of Dive Aran’s team (free of charge), and then continue to the Instructor Course in September. This combination provides the ideal opportunity to build confidence, refine your teaching skills, and log real experience in a working dive centre.
Please note: Taking the Assistant Instructor Course is recommended but not mandatory. Qualified Divemasters may apply directly to the Instructor Course if preferred, they will complete the Assistant Instructor component within that program.
As Assistant Instructor level, many trainees bring their own gear. This helps with consistency and comfort. It’s not strictly mandatory, but highly recommended. At minimum, bring:
Dive Aran offers equipment-rental for missing items and discounts for professional-level candidates.
During your course, you will:
1. Assistant Instructor Phase (Days 1-5):
As an SSI Assistant Instructor, you can:
Open Water Diver
Your first scuba certification – dive up to 18m worldwide.
Advanced Open Water Diver
Expand your skills and dive deeper – up to 30m.
Rescue Diver + React Right (First Aid/CPR)
Learn to prevent and manage emergencies, build confidence and safety.
Divemaster Course
Step into leadership – guide dives, assist instructors, and start your professional career.
Assistant Instructor Training Course
Build your teaching confidence and take the next step toward becoming a scuba instructor.
Instructor Training Course (ITC)
Take the next leap – become an SSI Instructor and teach scuba diving worldwide.
Got the Question? We've got answers
Yes. Divemasters can apply directly to the Instructor Course and complete the Assistant Instructor portion as part of the program.
Dive Aran is an SSI training centre, and this course follows SSI’s global instructor standards.
Yes. The SSI Assistant Instructor certification is globally recognised, just like PADI and other agencies.
No. The summer work experience is optional but highly recommended, it gives you valuable hands-on practice in a real dive centre before moving up to Instructor level.
Not necessarily. It’s strongly recommended but not required. If you go straight into the Instructor Course, you’ll still complete the Assistant Instructor portion during that training.
Yes, once certified, you can assist in teaching and guide entry-level programs.
Still looking? Take a look at this.
After earning your Instructor rating, you can join the Dive Aran crew teaching, diving, and living the island lifestyle.
Discover the Atlantic with daily fun dives on the Aran Islands. Small groups, guide and unforgettable adventures.
Becoming an Open Water Instructor is more than a career choice, it’s a rewarding diving lifestyle.
