There are eight newly-graduated PADI divemasters through Go Pro Cayman. 

The students travelled from far and wide to complete their training with Go Pro and PADI course director Ash McKnight. 

The divemaster course teaches the students the skills required to become an accomplished assistant to a PADI dive instructor, they are taught dive theory, dive skills, dive logistics and dive management, as well as first aid. All of the students are going on to become diving instructors, which is the next step on the PADI system of education, said training coordinator David Patterson.  

In addition to training as dive professionals, the Go Pro interns found time among a busy schedule to help out and volunteer at events such as Taste of Cayman and reef clean ups. Go Pro said it encourages their interns to participate in community efforts to give back to the jurisdiction from which they gain so much.  

“The students enjoyed their time helping out in the events a lot and they cannot wait until next year to do it all again,” Mr. Patterson said. “Many of these interns will find work here as dive instructors around the Cayman Islands and some will venture to far flung unexplored places. One fact remains though and that is that none of these interns would want to do their training anywhere else.” 

Second to none 

One of the students, Justin Ryan, said that it more than lived up to expectations. 

“I love it here in the Cayman Islands, the training is second to none, I am diving and learning from the best PADI dive centre on the island and I feel prepared and ready for my new career in the diving industry,” he said. 

Next up is the instructor development course at Treasure Island with Mr. Mcknight. The students will be put through their paces and learn how to teach the PADI system. After a comprehensive seven-day programme, the candidates will enter the instructor exam where they will be examined by a member of the PADI staff. Upon successful completion the students will become newly certified diving instructors.  

Go Pro Cayman noted it was “excited to announce” the addition of training in boating licences in accordance with international standards. 

“These courses will be taught and offered by International Yacht Training and PADI,” Mr. Patterson said. “These licences will internationally recognized through International Yacht Training and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency meaning these qualifications will be commercially endorsed. 

“Go Pro Cayman will be teaching courses from beginner through to Master Of Yachts 200 Ton including STCW 95. These are exciting times for Go Pro Cayman and indeed for the Cayman Islands,” he said.