FAVOURITEKIT
“
That ’ s a hard question , but on balance it ’ s my Mares dive hood . It never lets me down and fits snugly over my hair without messing it up too much .
”
[ very nice – understated humour Ed ]
nurtured his own progression . “ I didn ’ t take much persuading , but I would say the encouragement of fellow members and instructors from Stockton Divers helped .”
When it comes to teaching BSAC courses , Paul ’ s favourite is the Boat Handling Skill Development Course ( SDC ). He says : “ Boat Handling is great fun , offering a good mix of theory and practical teaching and also , I enjoy a good knot .” This popular SDC is a practical , boat-based course that gives each student time at the helm of a small dive boat to practise the key skills , including how to drop off and recover divers safely . After completing the course and consolidating your skills , candidates can be assessed to become a qualified Diver Coxswain .
For his own diving pleasure , Paul ( his ex-forces mates call him ‘ Crin ’) is a fan of the Sound of Mull in the Hebrides , a longstanding favourite among UK divers .
Dressed for a British summer
FACTFILE
Name : Paul Crinnon Job title : Regional Coach Area covered : North East First Dive : 1982
Teaching : Boat Handling Skill Development Course ( SDC ):
The area is known for its wrecks and wall dives , not to mention the breathtaking topside landscapes . There is also the serenity of Tobermory harbour , with its array of pubs and restaurants . “ It ’ s as much about the island of Mull , its scenery and the tranquillity , as it is about the dive sites ,” Paul says .
So , as a seasoned instructor heading up a region , what advice would Paul have to offer a newly qualified Ocean Diver ? He says : “ Support your club by becoming a committee member . We need clubs to develop and grow , as well as adopting new ideas and approaches . Also , take the opportunity to dive outside of your club , be that on holiday , with other divers or on courses . It broadens your horizons in terms of diving , but also you meet so many great people .” �
SKILLSTIP
“
Be aware of the problems imposed by task loading . For example , if your next dive is about depth progression , focus primarily on that . Don ’ t take your new camera or any other kit you are unfamiliar with ; minimise the things that could distract or even challenge you on the dive .
”
Boat handling in Hartlepool
Become an Instructor !
Sports Divers and up ( for scuba ) and 16 + year olds ( for snorkelling ) can start instructor training .
Scan for more info
Or visit bsac . com / instruct 47