SCUBA diving at Cottesmore

Pupils at Cottesmore School in Pease Pottage have a new sport to add to the already extensive choice of activities offered at the school.

Scuba diving has been introduced this term using the school’s own pool and is proving to be extremely popular with the senior pupils, who are aged 12-13.

Ian Nicholas, Acting Head of Maths at Cottesmore is qualified as a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and is undertaking theory work with the youngsters before beginning their training in the water.  Ian has been scuba diving since University and qualified as an instructor in 2004. He has a wealth of experience, including teaching cold-water diving techniques in Canada.

“Teaching the pupils to scuba dive will give them the opportunity to learn self-discipline, enjoy the importance of team work, be organised and develop a sense of confidence,” he said.  

Ian explains that scuba diving is also about educating young people on the effects of climate change on our oceans:   “Teaching young people about marine conservation and the wonders of the underwater world is essential if our oceans are going to survive.”

The children will be undertaking the PADI Junior Open Water programme which, once completed, will allow them to dive anywhere in the world.

Cottesmore’s pupils enjoy a wide range of sports and activities, including archery, real tennis, snooker and billiards.

Headmaster Tom Rogerson is delighted with this latest addition to the school’s extra-curricular programme:  “This brings our total of sports offered to 34.  Scuba diving is not only an exciting sport, but is enhancing our pupils’ understanding of climate change,” he said.

What’s the pupils’ response? “Adventurous, exciting, amazing, a fantastic opportunity – we can’t wait!”