PADI Tec Basics is a foundation Tec Diver level on the PADI technical course ladder. It is a multi-use course that can be undertaken either as a stand alone training programme, it can be used to further your knowledge and experience of technical diving and the related equipment requirements, as a refresher for divers returning to technical diving after a layoff, or as a way to oreintate already qualified technical divers to different equipment configurations.
PADI Tec Basics is the stepping stone from recreational to technical diving. It is an ideal way to learn more about this type of diving, as well as gaining experience in using the various styles of diving equipment used by technical divers. The course is designed for those divers with little or no experience outside of recreational diving. Your instructor is there to ensure you benefit from the training without the added pressure introducing the more advanced skills needed for technical diving. They are just looking for you to enjoy the experience.
Minimum age: 15 years
Course prerequisites: PADI Advanced Open Water Diver with PADI Enriched Air Diver or equivalent certification.
What will I do?
You can choose one of the three basic technical diving configurations to complete the course. A single cylinder with a bail out cylinder, a back mounted twin set or sidemount doubles. A deco cylinder is also an option for divers over 18 years old. You will have two days of intense tecnical diver training to complete. In our fully equipped multi-media classrooms, you will learn about the basics of technical diving. After reviewing the theory with your PADI Instructor, you will practise setting up and diving with a your equipment in our onsite training pool.
On the second day, you will then put into practice what you learn in a combination of skills during two open water training dives at a local dive site.
During your programme you will learn how to:
- Properly assemble and configure technical diving equipment.
- Trim your weight system so you’re perfectly balanced in the water.
- Manage gas and air shutdown drills.
- Propulsion techniques.
- Ascents and descents including bubble checks, S-drill and descent checks.
How do I get started?
Just pick your dates if you can and pay your £125 deposit and you will receive your PADI Tec Basics eLearning. Don’t worry if you can’t commit to a date straight away as there are plenty scheduled throughout the year.
How long will it take?
The PADI Tec Basics course takes place over one weekend. Starting on a Saturday at 9am, you will review the theory behind technical diving with your Instructor then familiarise yourself with diving with a technical configuration in the pool. On the Sunday you will put your skills into practice during two open water training dives.
What will I need?
The PADI Tec Basics is open to all divers over the age of 15 years who hold the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver and PADI Enriched Air Diver certification or equivalent.
All the standard scuba equipment you need to complete the programme is included. It is always a good move to buy your own dive computer for future dives, however we will supply one for the Sunday if you prefer.
You will need to fill out a self-certification medical statement. If you have any medical conditions that you think may prevent you from scuba diving, please feel free to contact us and we will try to be of assistance.
All the materials and standard scuba equipment needed to complete the programme are included in the cost. You will need to pay for your entry to the open water dive site and any required air fills while away from the centre. This is approximately £30 a day.
When can I start?
Just pay online, call the centre on 0121 706 6628 or email info@aquasportonline.com to check availability and book your dates.
Where can I go from here?
Once you have completed your PADI Tec Basics you have started down a road of discovery. With more gas available to extend your bottom time, your next step may be the PADI Deep Diver Specialty if you do not already hold this certification.
The PADI Tec Basics course is also an excellent preparatory course for technical diving and so the PADI Tec 40 could be the next course for you.
