Work Experience

SSI Open Water Diver certification card

5 Days

No Requirements

Minimum age: 15

Get scuba certified! This amazing opportunity might be the first step for TY students to a professional qualification enabling employability and travel in the diving industry.

The Transition Year is all about exploring different paths and discovering your passions. Scuba diving work experience opens a world of possibilities, allowing you to test the waters and consider a career in marine biology, underwater photography, dive instruction, or even marine conservation.

Dive Academy is pleased to offer a unique work experience programme for Transition Year students. Participants will have the chance to assist with dive trips, interact with divers from all over the world, and contribute to the conservation efforts that protect our oceans.


Spend Your Summer With Us! Our work experience programme is also an excellent way to encourage teens to make the most of their summer break. With a mix of adventure, learning, and personal development, it offers teens the chance to gain valuable skills while enjoying a supportive and exciting environment.

  • What's Included

    Scuba Certification (if booked): Full Open Water Diver course or Advanced Diver course for participants aiming to get certified.


    Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for all activities.


    Kayaking & Wildlife Snorkeling: Guided kayaking and snorkelling sessions to explore the island’s marine life.


    CPR & First Aid Introduction: Basic CPR skills and first-aid training to boost confidence and safety awareness.


    All Equipment Provided: Full dive gear and other equipment for all activities are included.


    Professional Supervision: Our friendly instructors supervise all activities (09:00 - 17:00) for a safe, supportive experience.

  • Itinerary

    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: Meet & Greet with Dive Academy staff. Overview of Dive Academy operations, values, and roles of each team member. Understanding the local marine ecosystem. Safety briefings and environmental guidelines.


    Kayaking: Explore the coastal surroundings by kayak for an introduction to marine life and coastal safety skills.


    Day 2 (9:00 - 17:00)


    Customer Service workshop & Snorkeling: Communication skills for assisting dive clients. How to manage bookings, greet visitors, and answer common questions.


    Snorkeling Session: Overview of snorkelling techniques, safety, and equipment usage.

    Explore underwater marine life with guided support.


    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 Program. Experience scuba basics under professional supervision. Focus on introductory skills and comfort in water


    Joint Activity: Training in basic CPR and emergency response techniques.


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


    For Certified Track Participants: Continued Diving Course. Advanced skills training and underwater navigation. Hands-on practice and safety drills.


    For Non-Certified Participants: Underwater Mapping Activity. Learn about mapping techniques, identifying marine landmarks.

    Engage in a shallow dive or snorkelling activity focused on underwater mapping skills.


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


    Wrapping Up & Celebrations: For those completing the scuba course, we’ll celebrate with a mini-award ceremony and scuba license presentation.


    Everyone receives a certificate of completion for a fantastic week of learning! 


    Goodbye Party: Group lunch, share stories, and say goodbye to friends and instructors.

  • What To bring?

    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.


    Bicycle: Handy for getting around the island! (Available to rent if needed).

  • Please Note

    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.

Popular Questions

Got a question? We’ve got answers

  • Will I stay overnight in Inishmore?

    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 course or work experience.

  • Should I be a good swimmer?

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

  • How can I continue scuba education?

    After completing this program, you can sign up for either the Open Water Diver or Advanced Diver course, depending on the level you have already completed. This allows you to continue progressing in your diving education and gain further certifications based on your experience.

  • How big is a group?

    The group size is a maximum of 4 students.

  • Should I have own dive gear?

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

  • How can I get accommodation?

    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 because we believe this is the perfect accommodation for a group like yours.

  • Is there any hidden cost?

    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 Academy (you can bring your own a bicycle too).

  • Is the water cold?

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

  • What can I do out of course hours?

    Learn Irish or clean our boat.

  • How can I book this activity?

    Stay on this webpage and use the calendar.

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