Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ page, your one-stop resource for answers to frequently asked questions. Here, we've compiled a list of common queries and provided concise, informative responses to help address any uncertainties you may have. Whether you're new to our diving club or a long-time member, our FAQs are designed to provide clarity on a range of topics, from membership inquiries to diving safety protocols. If you don't find the information you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team for further assistance.
Dive into our FAQs to gain insights and make the most of your experience with us!

Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of frequently asked questions. If you can't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us.

No, you don’t need to be a particularly strong swimmer, but you must be comfortable in the water and able to swim. As part of the scuba diving training at Staffordshire Divers, you will be required to swim 200 meters using any stroke you feel comfortable with. There is no time limit, so you can go at your own pace.

Many people who are new to diving in Stafford and surrounding areas are concerned about their swimming skills, but rest assured that our instructors provide full support throughout the course to ensure your safety and comfort in the water.

At Staffordshire Divers, we welcome aspiring divers for PADI courses from as young as 10 years old, while BSAC courses are available for those aged 12 and above. The older the trainee, the better, as some younger ages may have limited ability. There is no upper age limit, so all are welcome! For anyone under 16 years old, a parent or guardian must be present during training sessions. We also offer scuba-related fun activities for children under 12, ensuring they can start to explore the underwater world in a safe and enjoyable way.

Before you start training, you will be required to complete a medical questionnaire. Certain medical conditions, such as asthma, heart issues, or any problems related to your respiratory system, may require you to seek advice from a doctor before diving.

It’s important to get a proper medical assessment to ensure that scuba diving is safe for you. At Staffordshire Divers, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our members, so please don't hesitate to ask if you have any concerns.

The length of your scuba diving course depends on your availability and progress. At Staffordshire Divers, the BSAC Ocean Diver course typically includes:

  • Swimming Assessment
  • 7 Theory Lectures
  • 5 Pool Lessons
  • Theory Test
  • 5 Open Water Dives

Theory and pool sessions are usually held on Monday evenings in Penkridge. Open water training takes place on weekends at local dive sites or quarries, such as Stoney Cove. The time it takes to complete the course can vary based on how quickly you become comfortable with the skills, but we ensure you progress at your own pace.

All pricing information for our scuba diving courses is available on the Costs Page of our website. The cost typically covers equipment rental, pool sessions, and training materials. We strive to keep the pricing competitive while providing high-quality scuba training in the Stafford area.

If you’re looking to experience scuba diving without committing to a full course, we also offer affordable Try Dive sessions at Penkridge Pool.

Once you are qualified as a BSAC Ocean Diver or PADI Open Water Diver, you can participate in club dive trips and explore local dive sites around the UK. Our members often dive in places like Capernwray, Stoney Cove, and coastal locations such as Pembrokeshire.

At Staffordshire Divers, we also offer further training opportunities to advance your skills. You can train for the Sports Diver grade or explore specialty areas such as wreck diving, underwater photography, or rescue diving.

The club welcomes members where ever they have qualified.

You will be able to dive with us using your current qualification, or if you wanted to do further training you would "crossover" to the appropriate BSAC grade & build on your training from there.

NB: If you learnt to dive in warm waters you will need a little practice to get used to diving in UK conditions.

The Club meets every Wednesday evening at 20:00 at:

The Bird in Hand

1 Victoria Square

Staford

ST16 2AQ

As a new diver, you do not need to purchase your own equipment immediately. The club provides rental equipment for training sessions and dives. However, as you progress, you may wish to purchase your own gear for comfort and convenience.

The club organizes dives at various locations including local quarries, coastal sites, and even international dive trips. We aim to provide a diverse range of diving experiences for our members, from beginner-friendly sites to more challenging locations.

We host a variety of social events throughout the year, including barbecue parties, curry nights, brewery tours, and festive celebrations. These events are a great way to get to know fellow members and share diving experiences.

While diving insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to cover any potential medical expenses related to diving accidents. Many members opt for insurance to ensure peace of mind during their dives.

Joining the club offers numerous benefits, including access to training programs, organized dive trips, equipment rentals, and a supportive community of fellow diving enthusiasts. Members also enjoy discounts on diving gear and special events.

Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions are deemed unsafe for diving, the dive will be rescheduled or moved to a more suitable location. We monitor weather forecasts closely and communicate any changes to members in advance.

Ensure you have all necessary equipment ready and checked for safety. Review the dive plan and conditions with your dive buddy. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol the night before the dive. Arrive at the dive site on time for the pre-dive briefing.

 

Anyone is welcome to come along to meet us. If you would like to find out more, don't hesitate to contact us.