About the Center
The London School of Diving, located in London, GBR, is a PADI and SSI certified dive center. It offers a comprehensive range of courses, from introductory Discover Scuba Diving to professional levels like Divemaster and Instructor Development Course. Specialty courses such as Enriched Air Nitrox, Technical Diving, and Snorkeling and Boat Diving courses are also available.
Its facilities include parking, showers, lockers, WiFi, a bar, and accommodation, alongside two purpose-built, heated scuba pools. The center features a dive shop, equipment rental, air fills (including nitrox), and offers night diving and guided dives. Airport transfers are also provided.
As a PADI 5 Star Career Development Centre, the London School of Diving emphasizes professional diver training and is recognized as a PADI Centre of Excellence. A team of highly qualified PADI Instructors guides divers through every step of their learning journey, from their first underwater breaths to professional qualifications. The LSD Club further fosters community through pool sessions, guided dives, and social events.
The center is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the M25 (junction 11) and 7 minutes from the M3 (junction 2), with a 20-minute walk to Chertsey train station. Courses run daily, and an online shop offers diving gear and LSD merchandise with free delivery on orders over £50.
Available Courses
11 cursosOpen Water Diver
The PADI Open Water Diver Course Part A (Referral) at London School of Diving is meticulously designed to build your foundational scuba skills in a controlled and supportive environment. This initial phase begins with PADI eLearning, an online component that typically requires around 10 hours to complete at your own pace. It covers essential theoretical knowledge, including diving principles, equipment familiarization, and crucial safety procedures. Following the successful completion of the eLearning, you will attend a dedicated day of pool training at the Chertsey centre, a session lasting approximately 5 hours. During your pool session, you'll work closely with an experienced PADI instructor within the centre's purpose-built, heated training facility, which features two dedicated pools. The focus is on progressively developing your skills and confidence, ensuring you are comfortable with vital techniques such as mask clearing, regulator recovery, buoyancy control, and emergency procedures. This confined water training is a critical stepping stone, preparing you thoroughly for the open water dives that follow. Upon successfully completing Part A, you will receive a referral document, enabling you to proceed to Part B for your open water dives. This referral is recognized globally by PADI facilities, allowing you the flexibility to complete the final open water certification dives at another PADI dive centre, perhaps during a holiday. The course has a minimum age requirement of 10 years, and no prior diving experience is necessary, although a basic water competency is assessed through a 200m swim and a 10-minute float. The comprehensive price for Part A is £350, with absolute transparency and no hidden extras. This fee encompasses your PADI eLearning access, all pool training sessions conducted by certified instructors, and the final certification processing fee. It represents an excellent pathway for individuals who prefer to master the academic and practical pool components locally before venturing into open water environments for their certification dives.
Enriched Air Nitrox
The PADI Enriched Air Nitrox (EANx) specialty course is a highly sought-after certification offered by London School of Diving, a PADI-affiliated dive center. This course focuses on the theory and practical application of diving with enriched air, which contains a higher percentage of oxygen and a lower percentage of nitrogen than standard air. By reducing nitrogen absorption, divers can often extend their bottom times and shorten surface intervals, making for more efficient and enjoyable dives. The curriculum covers the benefits and potential risks of using EANx, including essential procedures like proper tank labeling, gas analysis, and dive planning using specialized tables or dive computers. Students will learn to calculate appropriate oxygen and nitrogen percentages for their dives and manage increased oxygen exposure. This specialty is particularly valuable for recreational divers who frequently engage in multiple dives per day, enhancing both safety and underwater exploration capabilities. The course is typically completed through PADI eLearning and a knowledge development session, with no open water dives required, making it a convenient addition to any diver's skillset. Upon successful completion, divers are certified to plan and execute dives using enriched air nitrox mixtures, opening up new possibilities for extended underwater adventures. London School of Diving provides this PADI specialty course, allowing divers to gain valuable skills in gas management and dive planning. As a PADI 5 Star Dive Centre, they adhere to the highest standards of diver education. While specific dive site details for this specialty are not provided, the theoretical knowledge gained is universally applicable to various diving environments. The course emphasizes understanding the physiological effects of breathing gases with higher oxygen content and how to safely manage these factors. This knowledge is crucial for divers looking to maximize their time underwater while adhering to safety protocols. The certification empowers divers with the confidence to plan and conduct dives using EANx, contributing to a safer and more prolonged diving experience. It's a logical step for those seeking to enhance their diving efficiency and explore more on each outing. This specialty course is designed to be accessible and beneficial for a wide range of divers. The focus on theory and planning means that participants gain a deep understanding of the principles behind enriched air diving. London School of Diving ensures that the knowledge imparted is current and aligned with PADI standards. The ability to utilize EANx can significantly improve the diving experience, especially in locations where multiple dives are planned. By understanding how to analyze gas mixes and plan dives accordingly, divers can optimize their ascent profiles and reduce decompression obligations. This leads to more comfortable ascents and a greater overall enjoyment of the underwater world. The certification is a testament to a diver's commitment to advanced training and safe diving practices. The PADI Enriched Air Nitrox certification is a cornerstone for many advanced diving activities. It complements other specialties by providing the foundational knowledge for extended bottom times, which is beneficial for deep dives, wreck exploration, or underwater photography. Divers who complete this course often find themselves better prepared for more challenging dive profiles and longer excursions. London School of Diving offers this course to equip divers with the tools to plan their dives more effectively, ensuring they can spend more time exploring the marine environment. The skills learned are directly transferable to real-world diving scenarios, making it a practical and valuable addition to any diver's certification card. It represents a significant step forward in a diver's educational journey.
Deep Diver
Expand your underwater horizons with the PADI Deep Diver specialty course offered by London School of Diving. This program is meticulously designed for certified divers eager to explore beyond the standard recreational depth limits, typically up to 30 meters or more. You will gain the essential knowledge and practical skills required for planning and executing deeper dives safely. The course focuses on understanding the physiological effects of deep diving, including nitrogen narcosis and decompression sickness, and learning effective risk management strategies. Key learning objectives include advanced dive planning for deeper environments, with a strong emphasis on gas management and ascent profiles. Proper equipment considerations and specific emergency procedures for deep diving are thoroughly covered. This specialty is often integrated into the PADI Advanced Open Water course, where deep diving forms one of the core adventure dives, providing a foundational experience under expert guidance. Upon successful completion, you will possess the confidence and competence to explore deeper wrecks, walls, and other fascinating sites that lie beyond typical recreational depths. This significantly enhances your diving adventures, opening up new possibilities for exploration. The PADI certification you receive is globally recognized, allowing you to apply your new skills in dive destinations worldwide. London School of Diving provides this training with a commitment to safety and diver education. While specific dive site details for this specialty are confirmed upon booking, the curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of deep diving principles. The course is conducted by experienced PADI instructors who ensure a high standard of training and personalized attention throughout your learning journey.
Discover Scuba Diving
The PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience at London School of Diving offers a straightforward introduction to the underwater realm for those curious about scuba diving but not yet committed to a full certification. This session is designed to provide a quick and accessible way to explore beneath the waves under the close guidance of a PADI professional. Before entering the water, participants will complete a brief online safety briefing, covering essential tips and expectations. A medical questionnaire and liability waiver are also required to be signed. During this approximately 1.5-hour experience, you will work one-on-one with a dive instructor who will guide you through your first breaths underwater. All the necessary scuba equipment is provided by the center, meaning you only need to bring your swimwear and a towel. This hands-on session allows you to feel the unique sensation of breathing underwater and experience the distinct environment of the aquatic world firsthand. Upon successful completion of your try dive, your instructor will discuss potential next steps for those interested in pursuing full PADI certification. London School of Diving offers a special incentive: booking onto a PADI Open Water Diver course on the same day as your try dive will receive a £30 discount. This encourages participants to continue their diving journey after a positive initial experience. This introductory dive is available on Wednesdays at 10:00, Fridays at 14:00, Saturdays at 14:00, and Sundays at 12:30, accommodating various schedules. The minimum age requirement is 10 years old, making this experience suitable for younger adventurers eager to explore the underwater world.
Advanced Open Water
The PADI Advanced Open Water course at London School of Diving is your next step to becoming a more confident and capable diver. This certification involves five open water dives, designed to introduce you to new underwater activities and improve your skills. You will gain the qualification to dive to depths of up to 30 meters, significantly expanding the range of dive sites accessible to you. The course includes theoretical knowledge gained through PADI Advanced eLearning, which must be completed prior to the practical sessions. Students are required to bring their e-record for verification. Practical training takes place over two days at distinct locations. The first day is spent at Wraysbury Dive Lake, where you will complete three adventure dives. The second day moves to Vobster Quay in Somerset for the remaining two dives. During the winter months, from December 1st to April 30th, a mandatory Drysuit Orientation is included, conducted in a pool to teach essential cold-water diving techniques. For the peak season, May 1st to November 30th, the focus shifts to Peak Performance Buoyancy, typically practiced in a wetsuit. The course fee is £425, which covers the instruction and certification. Additional costs are associated with site access and consumables. Expect to pay £15 cash on Day 1 for lake entrance at Wraysbury and £23 on Day 2 for Vobster Quay. Air fills are an additional £7.00 cash each, with three required throughout the course. Participants should also factor in expenses for food and drinks. While transport is not provided, students often arrange car sharing to reach the dive sites. This PADI Advanced Open Water certification builds upon your Open Water Diver skills, preparing you for deeper dives and more challenging environments. The course focuses on practical application of skills such as deep diving and underwater navigation, directly enhancing your ability to explore diverse underwater landscapes. Upon completion, you are well-prepared for further PADI specialties or the PADI Rescue Diver course, opening up a wider world of diving adventures.
PADI Rescue Diver
The PADI Rescue Diver course at London School of Diving is meticulously crafted to transform you into a more aware and capable diver, focusing on accident prevention and management. This technically oriented program moves beyond self-preservation to equip you with the crucial skills needed to assist other divers in emergency situations. You will gain confidence and invaluable experience, essential for any serious diver's progression. The course is scheduled over two intensive days, ensuring a thorough understanding and practical application of rescue techniques. Day one takes place at the Chertsey facility, running from 09:00 to 12:00, where you'll master key rescue exercises in the pool. These include self-rescue, managing panicked divers, underwater problem-solving, and procedures for locating a missing diver. The second day is dedicated to open water application at Vobster Quay in Somerset, from 08:30 to 15:00. Here, you will apply your learned skills during two dives, simulating scenarios such as managing an unresponsive diver, reinforcing the theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world challenges. This comprehensive program includes the Emergency First Response (EFR) add-on, covering vital CPR and First Aid techniques. The EFR component involves online eLearning, hands-on practice in Primary and Secondary Care, and scenario-based training. The total cost for the PADI Rescue Diver course with EFR is £499. If you already possess a valid CPR/First Aid certification within the last 24 months, the course fee is reduced to £389. Additional costs to budget for include lake entrance fees (£23), air fills (£7.00 cash per fill, one required), and personal expenses for food and drinks. Transport to dive sites is not included, though the school assists with car sharing arrangements. To enroll in the PADI Rescue Diver course, you must be at least 15 years old and hold a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This course is a critical step in diver education, building upon your existing skills and preparing you for potential emergencies. It significantly enhances your safety and the safety of those around you, making you a more responsible and competent member of the diving community. London School of Diving, a PADI-certified center, ensures high standards of training throughout the program.
Emergency First Responder – CPR & First Aid
The Emergency First Responder – CPR & First Aid specialty course offered by London School of Diving equips participants with vital life-saving skills. This PADI-affiliated program focuses on immediate care in emergency situations, covering essential techniques for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid. The curriculum is designed to build confidence in handling medical emergencies until professional help arrives, making it an indispensable course for divers and non-divers alike. Participants will gain practical knowledge to respond effectively in critical moments. This course emphasizes a hands-on approach to emergency response, ensuring that individuals are prepared to act decisively when faced with unexpected medical incidents. The training materials include self-study components and instructional videos, allowing for a flexible learning experience tailored to individual schedules. The focus is on simple, actionable steps that can be implemented in real-world scenarios. London School of Diving ensures that the instruction provided is clear and easy to follow, even for those new to first aid. While the exact duration and specific dive sites for practical application are not detailed in the provided context, this course is often a prerequisite or a complementary skill for advanced diving certifications such as the PADI Rescue Diver course. The price for this comprehensive training is £175, which includes all necessary learning materials and instruction. This investment in preparedness is highly valued by the diving community and beyond. The course is a testament to London School of Diving's commitment to diver safety and education. Participants enrolling in the Emergency First Responder – CPR & First Aid course at London School of Diving benefit from the center's multilingual capabilities, offering instruction in German, English, French, and Dutch. This ensures a comfortable and effective learning environment for a diverse range of students. The center's dedication to providing accessible and high-quality training is evident in its course offerings. This specialty is a critical step for anyone serious about diving safety and emergency preparedness.
Drysuit Diver
The PADI Drysuit Diver specialty course offered by London School of Diving is your gateway to comfortable and safe diving in cooler waters. This course is specifically designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to master diving in a drysuit, a crucial piece of equipment for exploring UK waters throughout the year, especially during the colder months. You will learn the intricacies of drysuit buoyancy control, which differs significantly from wetsuit buoyancy, and gain confidence in managing your gear effectively. The program emphasizes proper donning and doffing procedures, alongside vital emergency skills tailored for drysuit use, ensuring you are well-prepared for any situation. This specialty is a valuable addition for divers looking to extend their season and explore new dive sites. It can be integrated with other courses, such as the Advanced Open Water Diver certification during winter, enhancing your overall diving experience. The course begins with a dedicated Drysuit Orientation pool session, lasting approximately 2.5 hours. This initial phase is critical for understanding and practicing fundamental drysuit buoyancy techniques before progressing to open water dives. Mastering these skills in a controlled environment ensures a smoother transition to real-world diving conditions. London School of Diving, a PADI-certified center, ensures high standards of training and safety. While specific details on the number of open water dives or maximum depth for this specialty are not provided in the input data, the focus remains on practical application and skill development. The center offers instruction in multiple languages, including German, English, French, and Dutch, catering to a diverse range of international students. This multilingual approach ensures clear communication and a more personalized learning experience for all participants. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the different types of drysuits available and how to select and use them appropriately. The course structure prioritizes hands-on learning, allowing you to become proficient in managing air within the drysuit for buoyancy and thermal regulation. By completing this specialty, you will significantly enhance your comfort and safety, opening up year-round diving opportunities and the ability to explore dive sites that might otherwise be inaccessible due to temperature. This course is an investment in expanding your diving horizons and enjoying the underwater world in all seasons.
Sidemount Diver
The PADI Sidemount Diver specialty course at London School of Diving offers a unique approach to cylinder configuration, moving them from your back to your sides. This setup enhances buoyancy control and streamline, making equipment management more intuitive. You'll learn the specific skills needed to manage two cylinders, including donning and doffing them underwater and optimizing hose and regulator routing. The course thoroughly explores the advantages and challenges of this configuration, popular with technical divers but accessible to all seeking a different diving experience. This specialty is designed to improve your comfort and efficiency in the water, serving as a potential stepping stone for those considering further technical diving training. The curriculum combines essential theoretical knowledge with practical in-water sessions, ensuring you gain proficiency in sidemount techniques. Upon completion, you will be certified to utilize this versatile configuration, opening up new avenues for underwater exploration and potentially enhancing your overall diving performance. London School of Diving, a PADI-certified facility, provides this specialty training. While specific dive site details for this course are not provided in the input data, the school's commitment to PADI standards ensures a high level of instruction. The course focuses on mastering the unique skills required for sidemount diving, allowing for a more natural body position and easier access to your gear. Divers looking to expand their skill set will find the PADI Sidemount Diver specialty a valuable addition. It addresses the specific needs of managing equipment externally, promoting better trim and gas management. This course is ideal for those who want to experience a different way of diving and gain confidence with alternative cylinder setups, preparing them for more advanced exploration or technical diving pathways.
PADI GoPro Distinctive Specialty Course
Elevate your underwater storytelling with the PADI GoPro Distinctive Specialty Course at London School of Diving. This specialized program is meticulously crafted for divers eager to capture and share the magic of the underwater world through compelling video. You will learn the essential techniques for shooting, editing, and producing high-quality footage, transforming your diving adventures into professional-looking visual narratives. It's an ideal pathway for both passionate hobbyists wanting to document their dives and aspiring underwater content creators. The curriculum spans approximately 4 hours of intensive instruction, delivered by seasoned PADI professionals. The course emphasizes practical, in-water application of videography skills. Expect hands-on training covering everything from optimal camera setup and underwater shooting angles to effective lighting and composition strategies. You'll also participate in post-dive editing workshops, gaining proficiency in relevant software and post-production workflows to polish your creations. This specialty is accessible to a broad range of divers, as no prior certification is required, making it suitable for those new to diving or experienced individuals looking to expand their skill set. While a GoPro camera is essential for the course, London School of Diving offers rental options for participants who do not own one. Participants should also bring their swim kit, towel, any personal dive gear they possess, and a smart device equipped with the Quik app for editing purposes. Upon successful completion of the PADI GoPro Distinctive Specialty Course, you will receive a recognized PADI certification. This qualification is an excellent stepping stone for advancing your diving career or simply enriching your personal diving experiences. Mastering underwater videography allows you to effectively capture and share the breathtaking beauty and intricate details of the marine environment with a wider audience.
Scuba Review / ReActivate
The London School of Diving's Scuba Review / ReActivate program is specifically designed for certified divers who haven't been underwater for a while and wish to refresh their skills. This course ensures you are comfortable and proficient before your next holiday or diving activity. The session takes place in the centre's comfortable 32°C heated pool, making it an ideal environment to regain confidence, regardless of whether your last dive was 12 months or 12 years ago. Private, one-to-one sessions and flexible scheduling outside of standard times are available upon request, offering a personalized learning experience. The curriculum covers a majority of the essential skills learned during an initial open water course. Key skills reviewed include proper kit assembly and disassembly, conducting pre-dive safety checks, executing a deep water entry, achieving correct weighting, mastering descent and ascent techniques, regulator recovery, mask clearing, hovering, using an alternate air source, and practicing emergency procedures such as air depletion and Controlled Emergency Swimming Ascent (CESA). This comprehensive review ensures all fundamental diving competencies are sharp. For those seeking to formalize their refresher, PADI's ReActivate program can be added as an optional extra for £50. This addition includes refreshing your theory knowledge and results in a new certification eCard, providing official recognition of your updated skills. Upon booking, participants will receive necessary paperwork, including a self-assessment medical form. It is important to bring a towel, swim gear, the completed paperwork, and your existing certification card or logbook. While the London School of Diving provides all necessary dive kit, you are welcome to bring and use your own equipment if preferred. Located conveniently near Chertsey train station and major motorways, the London School of Diving offers excellent accessibility for its students. This refresher course is an excellent way to build confidence and ensure safe diving practices before you head back into open water. The centre is certified by PADI, a globally recognized leader in diver training, ensuring a high standard of instruction and safety throughout the program.
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The minimum age varies by course. For Discover Scuba Diving and PADI Open Water Diver, it's 10 years old (with seasonal variations for Open Water). For Advanced Open Water, it's 12 years in summer and 15 in winter. Rescue Diver requires a minimum age of 15 years.
The PADI Open Water Diver course fees generally include eLearning, pool training, certification fees, and in some cases, drysuit training. Additional costs typically include lake entry fees, air fills, and food/drinks. Transport to open water sites is not included.
London School of Diving does not offer refunds but provides credit for future courses. Rescheduling requires notice, with fees applied for short notice or 'no shows'. Specific notice periods and fees apply to different courses, ranging from 3 days for Discover Scuba to 14 days for Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver courses.
For recreational courses, all equipment is provided except for wetsuit boots in summer and wetsuit gloves in winter. For Pro courses, students are strongly recommended to invest in their own equipment, though some gear may be supplied. Equipment is prioritized for recreational students.
Club LSD offers members benefits such as guided dives, workshops, and social events. It's designed to encourage divers to stay active, explore more, and connect with the diving community.