Become a PADI Dive Instructor on Malapascua Island
The PADI Instructor Development Course (IDC) is the pathway to becoming a certified PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI). It’s an intensive, thorough programme that transforms experienced divers into dive professionals capable of teaching all PADI recreational courses. Malapascua is one of the most inspiring places in the world to start an instructor career.
Learn to dive in paradise
Programme Overview
The IDC consists of two parts: the Assistant Instructor (AI) course and the Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) programme, culminating in the PADI Instructor Examination (IE) conducted by a PADI Examiner.
- Duration: approximately 10–12 days
- Assistant Instructor + OWSI programme
- PADI Instructor Examination (IE) included
- Full teaching certification upon passing the IE
Course Overview
The IDC covers three main areas:
Knowledge Development
Dive theory to instructor level: physics, physiology, skills, environment, and equipment. Teaching methodology, PADI Standards and Procedures, risk management, and the business of diving. Classroom sessions, presentations, and written exams throughout.
Teaching Practicals
You’ll practise teaching confined water and open water dive sessions, classroom presentations, and student management. Feedback is detailed and ongoing. You’ll teach all recreational course components to PADI instructor standards before the examination.
PADI Instructor Examination (IE)
A two-day examination conducted by an independent PADI Examiner assessing your knowledge, confined water teaching, open water teaching, and classroom presentations against PADI’s global instructor standards.
Study Materials
The IDC uses the full PADI Instructor Manual, PADI Standards and Procedures, and the Instructor Candidate Workbook. All course materials are included in the IDC fee.
Candidates are expected to have solid dive theory knowledge before arriving. We recommend completing the PADI Divemaster programme and reviewing dive theory thoroughly in advance.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites
PADI Divemaster (or equivalent leadership-level certification) required. Current Emergency First Response (EFR) certification required. Minimum age is 18. Minimum 60 logged dives to enrol; 100 dives recommended. A current PADI Medical Statement signed by a doctor is required.
Download medical exam formYour Instructors
Our IDC Staff Instructors have trained instructors who are now working across Southeast Asia and beyond. The IDC programme on Malapascua is rigorous, supportive, and set against one of the best dive environments in the Philippines.
After the IDC
Newly certified PADI Instructors can apply to work with Thresher Shark Divers or take their career anywhere in the world. Ask about internship and employment opportunities after the IDC.
Specialty Instructor ratings can be added to your certification after the OWSI, expanding the courses you’re qualified to teach.
Combine Courses
Most IDC candidates complete the Divemaster course with us before progressing to the IDC. Ask about our Divemaster-to-IDC pathway package for the most efficient route to becoming a PADI Instructor on Malapascua.
Inquire about this course
Inquire about this course
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