Go from an absolute beginner to a padi professional.
The Zero to Hero program is a comprehensive, step-by-step pathway that takes you from a beginner diver to a fully qualified PADI Instructor.Based in Margate, this immersive training experience combines world-class instruction with real-world diving conditions, ensuring you develop both the knowledge and practical skills required to succeed in the dive industry.
South Coast Diving Co is a PADI 5 Star Dive Operator based in Margate, just minutes from the legendary Protea Banks — widely regarded as one of the top shark diving destinations in the world. As the only IDC provider in the area, with the nearest alternative based in Sodwana Bay, we offer a truly unique and locally unmatched environment for professional dive training.
Our location gives instructor candidates the opportunity to train in a dynamic, real-world marine environment, where every dive helps build not only skill, but also confidence, adaptability, and professional awareness. Training here goes far beyond simply meeting course requirements — it is about developing into a capable, resilient, and well-rounded dive professional.
What also sets us apart is the convenience and comfort we offer throughout your training journey. For those who need accommodation, we have a dedicated on-site guesthouse available as an optional add-on, allowing you to stay close to the dive centre, minimise stress, and fully focus on your course experience.
Our Zero to Hero is a 6-month program is designed for those ready to start with little or no diving experience and progress all the way to becoming a professional PADI Instructor. Set in a dynamic, shark-rich marine environment, your training goes far beyond the basics – building real confidence, awareness, and leadership in one of the ocean’s most exhilarating ecosystems. Training takes place in both pool and ocean environments, with regular dives on Protea Banks exposing you to real diving conditions.
It is a step-by-step pathway that takes you from a beginner diver to a fully qualified PADI Instructor.
You’ll progress through the full range of core PADI certifications.
As you move through the program, your focus shifts from learning to dive – to leading and teaching others. You’ll develop strong watermanship and buoyancy control, rescue awareness and emergency response skills, dive leadership and group management, teaching techniques and instructional confidence. By the time you reach your Instructor Development Course, you won’t just meet the requirements – you’ll already be thinking and performing like a dive professional.
If needed, you can stay at our on-site guesthouse for the duration of your course, making your training experience more convenient, comfortable, and stress-free so you can focus fully on your diving. A peaceful retreat where you can relax, making it the perfect place to be after the high-energy morning dives.
The Guesthouse:
