BSAC clubs in Germany are keeping busy. Sven Münster reports on an Advanced Instructor event in the Baltic Sea
LEARNINGCURVE
Four candidates, the Baltic and a National Instructor
BSAC clubs in Germany are keeping busy. Sven Münster reports on an Advanced Instructor event in the Baltic Sea
Michael‘ Miche’ Kohler Sven Münster
João Ventura Martin Köditz
For most BSAC instructors, becoming an Advanced Instructor represents far more than simply achieving another qualification. It is recognition of experience, leadership and the ability to help shape the future of diving within a club.
Over the 2026 Whitsun weekend, four instructors travelled to the island of Fehmarn in the Baltic Sea to take on just that challenge. Representing two BSAC branches were myself( Sven Münster) and Martin Köditz from HeideTaucher Walsrode( Branch 1503) and Michael‘ Miche’ Koller together with João Ventura from ESOC Scuba Diving Club Darmstadt( Branch 1711).
What made the occasion particularly special was the rarity of a BSAC Advanced
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Instructor Course being held in Germany. Such opportunities have been few and far between, making the event a significant milestone for BSAC training in Germany.
The candidates had already passed the Advanced Instructor theory examination at the end of March, leaving the practical course and final assessments as the last major hurdle. On Thursday, 21 May, they travelled from Walsrode and Darmstadt to Burgtiefe on Fehmarn, bringing with them not only years of diving experience but also Martin’ s RIB, which would play a key role throughout the weekend.
“ It was clear that something more than a training course had taken place”
Sven prepares the slates
Under the leadership of BSAC National Diving Officer Sophie Rennie, the course challenged candidates across a wide range of advanced instructional and leadership competencies. Supporting the delivery of the programme was BSAC
National Instructor Kevin Holmes, who assisted throughout the practical and assessment activities. Over two demanding days, the focus moved well beyond traditional instructor skills. Candidates were required to demonstrate effective dive management, mentor other instructors, organise complex diving operations and support the development of experienced divers.
These are the qualities that distinguish an Advanced Instructor within BSAC. The role extends beyond teaching individual lessons. Advanced Instructors are expected to develop divers, support instructors, strengthen clubs and contribute to the long-term growth of diving within the organisation.
After the course phase, all four participants achieved Assistant Advanced Instructor( AAI) status and progressed to the final examination stage.
Sunday and Monday provided the ultimate test. Candidates were assessed in theory, on the RIB and underwater, where they were required to demonstrate not only technical competence but also judgement, leadership and instructional effectiveness.
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