How Long

5 Days

Requirements

No Requirements

Min. Age

15

Max in Group

4

Get scuba certified and take your first step toward a professional qualification that opens doors to travel, work, and marine adventure around the world.

The Dive Aran Work Experience Programme offers Transition Year students and young people aged 15+ the chance to explore the world of diving, marine conservation, and adventure tourism.

You’ll assist with dive operations, meet divers from all over the world, and gain hands-on experience in our island-based dive centre.


Whether your goal is to explore marine biology, underwater photography, dive instruction, or conservation this week-long programme is your gateway to discovering your path.

While this programme is designed with Transition Year students in mind, it’s also open to anyone aged 15+ looking for an active, meaningful, and adventurous summer experience.


Spend your week learning new skills, connecting with others, and discovering the Atlantic world of the Aran Islands one dive, snorkel, or kayak at a time.

  • Scuba Certification (optional): Full Open Water or Advanced Diver course available for those aiming to get certified
  • Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for all scheduled activities
  • Kayaking & Wildlife Snorkelling: Guided sessions exploring marine life and island coastline
  • CPR & First Aid Introduction: Build confidence and safety awareness through practical learning
  • All Equipment Provided: Dive gear, wetsuits, snorkel sets, and all water gear included
  • Professional Supervision: Instructors oversee all activities 09:00–17:00, ensuring a fun, safe learning environment
  • Warm Clothes: Including a hat, for cooler island weather.
  • Water-Friendly Clothing: Quick-dry footwear, a jacket, and comfortable clothes for activities.
  • Swimwear & Towel: For snorkelling, kayaking, and diving days.
  • Wetsuit (optional): Bring your own if you have one, though we provide full dive gear.
  • A Bicycle: Handy for getting around the island! (Available to rent if needed).
  • To run this program, we require a minimum of 2 participants. If the minimum number is not reached, the program will be cancelled, and your payment will be fully refunded.

  • The Work Experience program lasts for five days from 09:00 to 17:00. Please note that our staff cannot take responsibility for participants outside of these hours.

This week is ideal for those aiming to become certified divers and those who wish to explore the diving world without certification. Both options provide a hands-on, immersive experience in diving, marine activities, and customer service. 

Day 1 (12:00 - 17:00)

Welcome, Orientation & kayaking: Meet & Greet with Dive Aran staff. Overview of Dive Aran operations, values, and roles of each team member.

Day 2 (9:00 - 17:00)

Customer Service workshop & snorkelling.

Day 3 (9:00 - 17:00)

  • For Certified Track Participants: Start of Scuba Diving Course. Introduction to scuba gear, techniques, and safety. Begin practical diving training in shallow water
  • For Non-Certified Participants: Try Scuba Diving. Experience scuba basics under professional supervision. Focus on introductory skills and comfort in water

Day 4: (9:00 - 17:00)

  • For Certified Track Participants: Continued Diving Course.
  • For Non-Certified Participants: Underwater Mapping Activity. Learn about mapping techniques, identifying marine landmarks.

Day 5: (9:00 - 15:00)

Wrapping Up & Celebrations. 

Goodbye Party; group lunch, share stories, and say goodbye to friends and instructors.

Popular Questions


Got the Question? We've got answers

Yes, every student is expected to stay overnight on Inishmore. You’ll need to be comfortable and mature enough to stay away from home for a couple of days while you complete your work experience programme.

No, If you can't swim there is no problem however, to fully enjoy this programme you should feel comfortable enough in the water in general.

No, we provide full dive gear. However, if you have wetsuit you can bring it.

We do not include accommodation in our price because we know that everyone has different tastes, styles and budgets. Check out our accommodation webpage for our suggestions. However, we recommend Glamping or Hostel because we believe this is the perfect accommodation for a group like yours.

Yes, you have to cover your own cost of living like a food and drink and even rental a bike, if you decide to live far from Dive Aran (you can bring your own a bicycle too).

Yes, the water can be cold during cooler months, but the super-suit (wetsuit), boots, and gloves will keep you comfortable.

Learn Irish or clean our boat.

Booking is easy, just stay on this webpage and use the calendar.

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Planning your visit and not sure where to stay?

Join our Dive Aran group chat to connect with other divers and travellers heading to Inishmore.
Share accommodation, swap travel tips, or simply meet people before you arrive, the island way to plan your trip.