


Gain the confidence and competence to manage dive emergencies with the PADI Rescue Diver Course. Designed for certified divers, this programme builds on your existing skills and teaches practical techniques for accident prevention, self-rescue, and assisting others in distress. You’ll emerge as a more capable and aware diver, prepared for both recreational and challenging diving environments.
Training begins with comprehensive knowledge development using official PADI eLearning materials. You’ll study accident prevention, risk management, and rescue principles before applying them in practical settings. Instructors provide guidance and feedback to ensure understanding and confidence in every technique.
Next, pool sessions allow you to practice essential rescue skills in a controlled environment. You’ll simulate scenarios such as panicked diver response, underwater breathing emergencies, and controlled tows, gradually building competence and comfort before moving to open water.
Open water dives form the culmination of the course, where you’ll face realistic rescue scenarios under supervision. These exercises challenge you to perform rescues, administer first aid, and manage emergencies effectively. By the end of the course, you’ll have demonstrated your ability to respond calmly and competently to a range of situations.
Practical training is conducted at Littlehampton Marina, with pool sessions and equipment preparation handled at the purpose-built centre. This ensures a safe and structured learning environment before moving to open water.
Open water exercises take place at nearby coastal sites selected for their accessibility and suitability for rescue drills. These locations provide a realistic setting for practicing skills such as diver recovery, surface management, and emergency procedures.
You must hold an Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent), be able to pass a basic medical screening, and complete Emergency First Response (EFR) training within the past 24 months. If EFR certification is not current, it can be completed alongside the Rescue Diver course.
Divers aged 12–14 will earn a Junior Rescue Diver certification. You should feel comfortable in the water and competent in basic diving skills to fully benefit from the course.
A strong focus on skill development, safety, and environmental responsibility guides every aspect of instruction. Certified instructors bring extensive experience and a passion for diving, offering personalised guidance that helps divers handle real-world rescue situations with confidence.
Partnerships with leading industry brands ensure access to high-quality equipment, while small group sizes allow tailored coaching and attention. Divers also benefit from an inclusive, supportive community that encourages exploration, teamwork, and ongoing engagement with the underwater environment.
About the centre
Littlehampton
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