Becoming a surfing instructor requires strong surfing skills, safety knowledge, and a teaching certification from a recognized body. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Learn to Surf and Build Experience
Take Surfing Lessons: Start by learning to surf through a reputable surf school. Develop proficiency in paddling, catching waves, and maintaining balance.
Practice Regularly: Gain experience in various conditions and locations, such as beach breaks and point breaks, to build a strong foundation of surfing skills.
2. Choose a Certification Organization
Several organizations provide surfing instructor certifications:
International Surfing Association (ISA): Globally recognized for its surf instructor programs.
Academy of Surfing Instructors (ASI): Provides internationally recognized surf instructor certifications.
National Governing Bodies: Many countries have their own national governing bodies for surfing, such as Surfing Australia or the British Surfing Association.
3. Meet the Prerequisites
Age Requirement: Typically, you must be at least 16-18 years old.
Surfing Proficiency: You need to be a competent surfer, able to ride unbroken waves and manage various surf conditions.
First Aid and CPR Certification: Most programs require you to have valid first aid and CPR certifications.
Lifesaving Qualification: Some programs, such as ISA, require a surf-specific lifesaving or water rescue certification, like the Surf Life Saving Award.
4. Complete an Instructor Training Course
Enroll in an Instructor Course: The course typically lasts 2-5 days and covers essential topics, such as:
Surf teaching techniques for beginners and intermediate students.
Safety protocols, including risk assessment, rescue techniques, and group management in the surf.
Ocean knowledge, including wave dynamics, currents, and weather.
Equipment setup and maintenance.
Focus on Safety: A large part of the training involves learning how to ensure student safety in potentially dangerous surf conditions.
5. Pass the Instructor Assessment
After the course, you’ll undergo a practical and theoretical assessment, where you’ll be tested on your surfing skills, teaching ability, safety knowledge, and rescue techniques.
6. Gain Teaching Experience
After certification, gain experience by working at a surf school, resort, or camp. Start with beginner lessons and progress to teaching more advanced surfers as you gain confidence and experience.
7. Obtain Advanced Certifications (Optional)
Specializations: You can pursue advanced certifications in areas such as high-performance coaching, longboard instruction, or surf tourism.
Surf Lifeguard Certification: Consider getting additional lifeguard training to increase employability and safety qualifications.
8. Maintain Certification
Revalidation: Certifications generally need to be revalidated every few years, requiring instructors to take refresher courses to ensure they stay up-to-date with current safety and teaching practices.
Key Organizations:
International Surfing Association (ISA)
Academy of Surfing Instructors (ASI)
Surfing Australia
British Surfing Association
With certification from a recognized organization, you can work as a surfing instructor at schools, camps, and resorts, sharing your passion for surfing with students of all levels.
