Details
The SSI Assistant Instructor program is the next major step from Divemaster into professional-level teaching. This course is designed to help experienced dive leaders build the knowledge, confidence, and instructional skills needed to assist with entry-level scuba training and begin teaching selected SSI programs independently.
Throughout the program, you will learn the SSI teaching system, how to organize academic and in-water sessions, and how to present information clearly and professionally. The training emphasizes leadership, student control, evaluation techniques, and the ability to support an instructor while helping new divers succeed.
Candidates complete digital learning, academic development, practical application sessions, and skill evaluations that strengthen both teaching presence and in-water demonstration quality. It is a challenging but rewarding program for divers who want to move toward professional training and future instructor-level certification.
Upon completion, you will earn the SSI Assistant Instructor certification.
Requirements
Minimum age
18
Practical Application Sessions
7
Suggested duration in hours
35 - 42
Academic Sessions
6
Class Prerequisites
Candidates must be at least 18 years old, hold an SSI Divemaster certification or equivalent, and have at least 60 logged open water dives totaling 40 hours or more to begin training. To complete the program, candidates must log at least 75 open water dives totaling 50 hours or more.
How does the Assistant Instructor Class work?
- Your course includes digital learning, instructor-led academic development, and practical application sessions.
- You will learn how to assist with Open Water Diver training and how SSI's teaching system is organized.
- Candidates practice presentation skills, in-water demonstrations, student evaluation, and professional-level problem solving.
- The program includes 6 academic sections and 7 practical application sessions.
- Assistant Instructors may teach selected SSI programs independently and assist with entry-level training under instructor supervision.
- This is an excellent next step for Divemasters who want to move toward instructor-level training and professional teaching roles.