Oceans 5 Blog

The PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air

Becoming a PADI Instructor is a dream for many divers who wish to turn their passion into a career. However, the intensity and pressure of some Instructor Development Courses (IDC) can make the experience stressful. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the PADI IDC is structured to ensure that candidates learn in a relaxed and supportive environment, giving them the confidence to become outstanding instructors without the unnecessary stress.

A 20-Day IDC for Better Learning and Less Stress

One of the key aspects that sets Oceans 5 Gili Air apart is the extended duration of its PADI IDC. While many dive centers condense the IDC into 14 or even 10 days, Oceans 5 Gili Air takes a different approach, spreading the course over 20 days. This extended schedule allows for a more gradual and stress-free learning process. Instructor candidates do not have to rush through essential skills, theory sessions, and practical applications. Instead, they have time to fully absorb the material, practice their skills, and build confidence in their teaching abilities.

The daily schedule reflects this relaxed philosophy. Classes start at 8:30 AM and finish by 5:00 PM, allowing for a structured yet unhurried learning experience. A one-hour lunch break in the middle of the day gives candidates the chance to recharge before the afternoon sessions. Unlike many other IDCs where candidates have to stay up late completing assignments, at Oceans 5 Gili Air, most of the homework is completed during class hours. This means that when the day ends, candidates have free time to unwind, socialize, or review materials at their own pace.

The Perfect Balance Between Work and Leisure

The relaxed nature of the IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air is not just about the structured schedule—it is also about the environment in which candidates learn. The dive center offers an open and inviting space where candidates can study, practice, and relax without pressure.

For those who want to maximize their preparation, the classroom remains open 24 hours a day, and high-speed WiFi is available for free. This means candidates can access learning materials whenever they feel like reviewing, whether early in the morning or late at night. Additionally, the course director is always available for guidance, offering extra support to those who want to deepen their understanding of the material.

For those who prefer to unwind, Oceans 5 Gili Air provides the perfect setting. Right outside the classroom, there is a traditional Indonesian beruga—a shaded wooden platform with comfortable seating where candidates can take a break, chat with fellow divers, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. On the other side of the classroom, there is a swimming pool, offering a refreshing way to cool off after a long day of learning.

A Supportive and Social Learning Environment

The PADI IDC at Oceans 5 Gili Air is designed to foster camaraderie among candidates. With small group sizes, candidates quickly build strong connections, supporting and encouraging one another throughout the course. At the end of the day, there is time to socialize over a drink, exchange experiences, and relax before another day of training.

Unlike other dive centers where IDCs can feel like a high-pressure competition, Oceans 5 Gili Air focuses on cooperation and shared learning. Candidates are not just trained to pass their exams but are encouraged to develop into confident and knowledgeable instructors who can handle real-life diving situations with ease.

Personalized Attention from a Dedicated Course Director

Another advantage of the relaxed environment at Oceans 5 Gili Air is the direct access candidates have to their course director. With a small number of candidates per IDC, the course director can focus on each individual’s strengths and weaknesses, ensuring they receive the attention and support needed to succeed.

This personalized approach means that candidates who need extra practice in certain areas can take the time to refine their skills without feeling rushed. Whether it’s theory, confined water skills, or open water teaching presentations, the extended schedule allows candidates to master each component of the course at their own pace.

Facilities Designed for Comfort and Learning

Oceans 5 Gili Air is not just a dive center—it’s a place designed to create the perfect learning environment. The classroom is spacious and well-equipped with modern teaching aids, ensuring candidates have everything they need to succeed. The air-conditioned space provides a comfortable atmosphere for learning, and high-speed WiFi ensures that candidates can easily access digital learning materials.

Outside of the classroom, the dive center’s facilities make it easy to balance work and relaxation. The swimming pool, beruga, and nearby cafes and restaurants offer plenty of options for unwinding after a day of training. Candidates can also explore the island, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Gili Air, where bicycles and horse carts replace noisy cars and motorbikes.

No Need to Worry About Last-Minute Cramming

One of the most common sources of stress during an IDC is the last-minute cramming required to keep up with the demanding schedule. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the extended 20-day IDC removes this stress entirely. With a structured approach that ensures gradual learning, candidates can absorb information more effectively, reducing the pressure of trying to master everything in a short period.

This approach means that by the time the PADI Instructor Examination (IE) arrives, candidates feel well-prepared and confident. They have had ample time to practice their teaching presentations, refine their rescue skills, and review theory concepts without the panic of last-minute studying.

The Oceans 5 Gili Air Philosophy: Quality Over Quantity

Unlike some dive centers that aim to push as many candidates through their IDC programs as possible, Oceans 5 Gili Air takes a different approach. By keeping class sizes small and allowing plenty of time for learning, the dive center prioritizes quality over quantity. The goal is not just to create instructors who can pass the exam but to train professionals who feel ready to take on the real-world challenges of teaching scuba diving.

This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the IDC. The supportive environment, the relaxed pace, and the emphasis on real learning over rote memorization all contribute to a program that produces confident, skilled, and well-rounded PADI Instructors.

A Place to Learn, Grow, and Enjoy the Process

The journey to becoming a PADI Instructor should be an enjoyable one. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, the PADI IDC is not just about obtaining a certification—it’s about truly learning the skills needed to be an effective instructor while enjoying the process. By offering a relaxed, supportive, and well-structured learning environment, Oceans 5 Gili Air ensures that candidates walk away not only as certified instructors but as confident and capable diving professionals.

If you are considering becoming a PADI Instructor and want to do so in a stress-free environment that allows for real learning, Oceans 5 Gili Air is the perfect choice. With its relaxed atmosphere, top-notch facilities, and supportive community, it provides the ideal setting to start your career as a PADI Instructor with confidence and enthusiasm.

Team Teaching Possibilities

The journey to becoming a PADI Instructor is one filled with excitement, challenges, and personal growth. At Oceans 5 Gili Air, a premier PADI Career Development Centre (CDC) in Indonesia, the Instructor Development Course (IDC) equips candidates with the skills and knowledge to pass the PADI Instructor Examination (IE) and become confident, environmentally conscious dive professionals. But the learning doesn’t end with certification. Oceans 5 offers a unique team teaching program—a free instructor internship—to IDC graduates, providing an unparalleled opportunity to refine teaching skills and gain invaluable experience in a real-world setting.

What Is the Team Teaching Internship?

The team teaching program at Oceans 5 Gili Air is an exclusive offering for IDC graduates. Unlike many dive centers that consider their job done once candidates pass the IE, Oceans 5 goes a step further by offering this internship. It’s not a paid position, nor is it a formal job; rather, it is an extended training program designed to build confidence and competence. IDC graduates work alongside Oceans 5’s experienced instructors, assisting in real PADI courses such as the Open Water Diver Course, Advanced Open Water Course, and specialty courses.

The internship acts as a bridge between the classroom theory and actual teaching, providing new instructors with hands-on experience under the mentorship of seasoned professionals. This ensures that graduates not only meet but exceed PADI standards when conducting their own courses in the future.

Why Participate in the Team Teaching Internship?

1. Gain Real-World Experience: While the IDC prepares candidates with the essential skills to pass the IE, nothing compares to the real-world dynamics of teaching students. The internship allows participants to apply what they’ve learned in a controlled yet authentic environment.
2. Mentorship from Experts: Oceans 5’s experienced instructors offer invaluable insights and feedback, helping new instructors refine their techniques. Mentors provide tips on managing student behaviors, ensuring safety, and adapting to different learning styles.
3. Build Confidence: Teaching your first course as a newly certified instructor can be daunting. By assisting experienced instructors, interns build the confidence needed to independently lead PADI courses.
4. Improve Soft Skills: Beyond diving skills, the internship hones essential soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. These qualities are crucial for becoming a successful instructor.
5. Expand Professional Networks: Working within the Oceans 5 team introduces interns to a network of professionals and peers in the diving industry, creating future opportunities for collaboration and employment.

Structure of the Internship

The instructor internship at Oceans 5 Gili Air is carefully structured to provide maximum value while maintaining flexibility for participants. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Course Assistance: Interns assist in various PADI courses, observing and participating in everything from student briefings to skill demonstrations. This exposure helps interns understand the flow of a course and the nuances of student progression.
2. One-on-One Feedback: After each session, interns receive detailed feedback from their mentors. This constructive critique focuses on strengths, areas for improvement, and strategies for better student engagement.
3. Workshops and Refreshers: Oceans 5 regularly conducts workshops on teaching techniques, emergency scenarios, and environmental conservation. These sessions are integrated into the internship, ensuring participants continue to learn and grow.
4. Flexible Duration: The internship can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the participant’s availability and goals. Oceans 5 understands that every new instructor’s journey is unique and accommodates individual needs.

Key Benefits of Team Teaching at Oceans 5

1. Small Group Sizes: Oceans 5 is renowned for its small group sizes, both during the IDC and in the team teaching program. This ensures personalized attention and a focused learning environment for both students and interns.
2. Diverse Student Profiles: Gili Air attracts divers from around the world, offering interns the chance to work with students of different cultures, languages, and skill levels. This diversity enriches the teaching experience.
3. State-of-the-Art Facilities: With spacious pools, well-maintained equipment, and comfortable classrooms, Oceans 5 provides an ideal environment for learning and teaching.
4. Environmental Philosophy: Oceans 5 emphasizes environmentally conscious diving practices. Interns learn how to integrate marine conservation into their teaching, becoming ambassadors for the ocean.

Real-Life Scenarios: A Day in the Internship

Imagine assisting in an Open Water Diver Course:

• Morning: Interns join the instructor for the student briefing, observing how complex concepts are broken down into simple, digestible points.
• Pool Session: In the pool, interns demonstrate basic skills under the watchful eye of their mentor, receiving tips on clarity, positioning, and communication.
• Afternoon Dive: During an ocean dive, interns practice guiding students while maintaining group safety and control. They learn to handle real-time challenges, like assisting a student struggling with buoyancy.
• Debriefing: The day ends with a thorough debrief, where the mentor highlights successes and areas for improvement, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Success Stories: From Intern to Instructor

Many past IDC candidates credit the team teaching internship at Oceans 5 Gili Air for their professional success. By the end of the internship, these new instructors not only feel confident leading courses but also possess a deep understanding of PADI’s philosophy and standards. Some have even returned to Oceans 5 as full-time instructors, a testament to the quality of training and mentorship provided.

How to Get Started

Participating in the instructor internship is easy. Upon completing the PADI IDC and IE at Oceans 5 Gili Air, simply express your interest in joining the program. The team will discuss your goals and availability, creating a tailored internship plan that aligns with your career aspirations.

Why Oceans 5 Stands Out

Oceans 5 Gili Air’s team teaching internship exemplifies their commitment to producing high-quality, confident dive instructors. The program goes beyond the standard IDC, offering practical experience, mentorship, and a supportive community. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only well-prepared for their first teaching roles but also equipped to excel throughout their careers.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a PADI Instructor is a rewarding journey, and Oceans 5 Gili Air makes it even more fulfilling with their team teaching internship. This unique program transforms newly certified instructors into seasoned professionals, ready to inspire and educate the next generation of divers. Whether you’re looking to gain confidence, refine your skills, or simply immerse yourself in a supportive learning environment, the instructor internship at Oceans 5 Gili Air is the perfect next step in your diving career.

If you’re ready to take your first steps as a professional dive instructor in one of the most beautiful locations in the world, Oceans 5 Gili Air is waiting for you. Dive into your future today!

Beach Cleanup at Gili Air

Every Friday at 17:00, a dedicated group of volunteers gathers at Oceans 5 Gili Air, ready to take action. Rain or shine, these warriors patrol the beaches on the south side of Gili Air, collecting rubbish and restoring the island’s natural beauty. It’s a weekly ritual that has been ongoing for 15 years, making beach cleanups a core tradition of conservation efforts at Oceans 5 Gili Air.

Last Friday was no different. A large group of enthusiastic volunteers joined forces, equipped with bags and gloves provided by Oceans 5 Gili Air, and set out on their mission. The cleanup stretched from the beachfront of Oceans 5 to Villa Karang, covering a span of 200-300 meters. In just one hour, the team collected an impressive 40 kilograms of trash, proving that small, consistent efforts yield significant results over time.

A Legacy of Environmental Commitment

Fifteen years ago, Oceans 5 Gili Air initiated these weekly beach cleanups as part of their broader conservation strategy. Over time, these events have grown into an integral part of the dive center’s identity. Today, Oceans 5 is recognized as the leading conservation center on Gili Air, offering a wide range of environmental activities alongside their world-class diving programs.

The beach cleanups started as a simple idea: to take responsibility for the beautiful island that so many people visit each year. Gili Air’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters attract divers and tourists from all over the world, but human activity and ocean currents bring pollution. Oceans 5 Gili Air saw an opportunity to make a difference by committing to regular, structured cleanups, ensuring that the island remains a paradise for future generations.

A Hands-On Experience for Divemaster Candidates

One of the most remarkable aspects of Oceans 5’s conservation initiatives is how they are seamlessly integrated into the PADI Divemaster program. For aspiring dive professionals, learning about marine conservation isn’t just about understanding theories—it’s about taking action. Beach cleanups are now an essential component of the divemaster training, offering candidates an opportunity to develop valuable leadership skills.

Divemaster candidates at Oceans 5 Gili Air are given real-world experience in organizing these cleanups. They learn how to market the event, conduct briefings, and lead groups of volunteers, ensuring that each cleanup is both effective and educational. This hands-on experience prepares them for future careers in the dive industry, where environmental responsibility is increasingly important.

By participating in and leading these events, divemaster candidates gain:

• Organizational Skills: Planning and executing cleanups teaches candidates how to coordinate logistics and manage time effectively.
• Leadership Experience: Guiding groups of volunteers builds confidence and helps candidates develop their ability to instruct and inspire others.
• Public Speaking Abilities: Conducting briefings before and after cleanups improves their communication skills, which are crucial for working as professional dive instructors.
• Conservation Awareness: Seeing firsthand the amount of waste collected each week strengthens their commitment to protecting marine environments.

The Impact of 15 Years of Beach Cleanups

Over the past decade and a half, Oceans 5 Gili Air’s commitment to conservation has set an example for other dive centers and businesses on the island. The results of these efforts speak for themselves:

• Thousands of Kilograms of Trash Removed: By consistently cleaning the beaches, volunteers have prevented large amounts of plastic and other pollutants from reaching the ocean, reducing harm to marine life.
• Growing Community Engagement: The weekly cleanups have inspired locals, tourists, and dive professionals to take an active role in environmental conservation.
• Education and Awareness: Through these cleanups, participants learn about the importance of proper waste disposal and the impact of pollution on marine ecosystems.
• Sustainable Tourism Promotion: By maintaining clean beaches, Oceans 5 helps preserve Gili Air’s reputation as an eco-conscious travel destination.

Beyond the Beach: Expanding Conservation Efforts

While the weekly beach cleanups remain a cornerstone of Oceans 5’s environmental mission, the dive center has expanded its conservation initiatives over the years. These include:

• Marine Conservation Workshops: Providing education on coral restoration, marine biodiversity, and sustainable diving practices.
• Underwater Cleanups: Organizing dives specifically aimed at removing trash from the reefs and seabed.
• Partnerships with Universities: Collaborating with institutions like the University of Mataram to support marine research projects in the Gili Islands.
• Reducing Plastic Use: Encouraging sustainable alternatives and minimizing single-use plastics within the dive center.

Looking to the Future

As Oceans 5 Gili Air continues its conservation journey, the commitment to protecting the environment remains stronger than ever. The goal is not just to clean up but to create long-term solutions that prevent pollution in the first place. By involving divers, tourists, and the local community, Oceans 5 is fostering a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship.

The weekly beach cleanups will keep going, rain or shine. The volunteers will keep showing up, proving that collective effort leads to lasting change. And Oceans 5 Gili Air will remain at the heart of these efforts, ensuring that the island’s beauty is preserved for future generations of divers and nature lovers.

To everyone who participated in last Friday’s cleanup—thank you! Your dedication makes a difference. See you all next Friday at 17:00 for another round of cleaning, learning, and protecting Gili Air together!