Doin me Divemaster...

I'm Della, the local, Irish speaking, tg4 appearing trainee Divemaster. I've been doing the Divemaster course for nearly a month now and it's been great so far.

Although I was helping about the centre last summer, I've got more of a clue as to how the centre is run and how much work it takes everyone everyday. I've also a much better insight into the needs of divers and how to tell when someone needs some help, this has all come with doing the course as I'm a bit clueless by nature sometimes!

Della (left) with Jacquie

In the past few weeks I've come across some new and interesting situations which all help with my building up of experience. I'm well used to the stupid and ditsy questions from lost tourists but some dives have been a little strange. For example one try-diver yesterday decided to tell me in handsignals of her algaphobia (fear of seaweed for those not in the know) which didn't really help the situation seen as we were diving in the kelp ridden underwater world of Smerwick harbour.

The instructors here couldn't be more helpful with answering my questions and pointing out the bits I've forgotten in the nicest way possible and although this sounds terribly cheesy, I learn something new from them everyday.

A divemaster's duties sometimes include being creative above water too!

So far I've completed half of the written exams and most of the practical ones and I'm doing quite well. I'll keep you all posted on my progress. Until next time, Delia Ni Chiobhain.