SIX Sandals Jamaica scuba divers have graduated as PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) internationally certified instructors, after successfully completing a two-week course at Sandals Grande Riviera.

They will now be able to operate as instructors in any country.

The comprehensive seminar, which included theoretical and practical application, was conducted by United States-based PADI designation course director Pat Hammer in conjunction with Jamaican experts Noylis Amair and Charles Eyles. The two-day examination was convened by internationally certified examiners.

Participants included local Sandals and Beaches watersports team members from various properties across Jamaica.

The extensive theoretical sessions took place in classroom settings, while a number of practical demonstrations were held in the pools and on dives at sea.

“The international PADI course was part of our constant effort to produce more diving instructors to meet the demands of guests in our local and international operations, as well as assisting in the development of Sandals divers,” noted Michael Clarke, Sandals group watersports director.

“As a result of our efforts we now no longer have to employ dive instructors from overseas to operate in Jamaica; we have enough home grown talent to satisfy our guest population and we will continue to develop more,” Clarke noted.

Horrneil Vaughn, a dive master at Sandals Grande Riviera, and one of the participants in the PADI course, described it as “an incredible experience”.

“I learned so much and am now well equipped for the job of instructing my guests. I found the course well planned and informative and I got a chance to work alongside professional and experienced course instructors,” he said.