Did you know that the world surf business will be worth more than $9.5 billion by 2025? More and more of that money will go to surf schools and lessons. This boom isn’t just a sign of how popular surfing has become; it’s also a sign that people who love riding waves can turn their hobby into a successful job.
To become a surf teacher, you don’t just have to spend your days at the beach. You have to embrace a way of life that supports health, happiness, and the thrill of the ocean.
So, how do you become a surf instructor?
Becoming a surf instructor involves several steps, including gaining surfing experience, obtaining certifications, and networking to find a position. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Become a Competent Surfer: You need to have a good level of surfing experience. You should be able to paddle out, catch green waves, bottom turn, and trim left and right.
- Enroll in a Course: The International Surfing Association (ISA) offers two levels of certification that are considered the standard in surf instruction. Surfing England also offers a comprehensive course that combines online or workshop-based theoretical learning with hands-on practical training and beachside mentoring.
- Obtain Documented Practical Experience: You need to complete a certain amount of practical surf coaching hours with a supervising instructor.
- Obtain Safety Certifications: You need to have an up-to-date Beach Lifeguard or Surf Lifesaving award.
- Network to Find a Position: Networking can help you find a job as a surf instructor.
So, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What is a surf instructor?
A surf instructor is a skilled professional who teaches the art and science of surfing. They are not merely coaches but mentors who foster a love for the sport while emphasizing safety, environmental awareness, and personal development.
A surf instructor’s role is expansive, shaping not just the technical skills of surfing but also the attitudes, values, and awareness of their students towards the marine environment.
Responsibilities of a Surf Instructor:
The duties of a surf instructor are diverse, tailored to enhance the safety, skills, and ethical consciousness of their students.
| Technical Instruction | Teach the fundamentals of surfing, including board management, wave selection, paddling techniques, and balance. |
| Safety Training | Instill key safety protocols, manage risks, and equip students with emergency response skills and water rescue techniques. |
| Personal Development | Boost confidence and resilience among surfers, aiding them in setting and achieving personal surfing goals. |
| Environmental Education | Educate students about marine environments, the impact of human activities on oceans, and promote sustainable surfing practices. |
| Cultural Promotion | Impart knowledge on surfing history and culture, nurturing an appreciation that goes beyond the sport itself. |
| Mentorship | Provide personalized feedback and guidance, fostering a supportive community that values growth and learning. |
| Community Engagement | Act as a steward of local and global surf communities, promoting events, competitions, and conservation efforts. |
Surf instructors are essential in bridging the gap between novices and the profound, exhilarating world of surfing.
They not only teach techniques but also inspire a lasting passion and respect for surfing and its surrounding culture.
How to Become a Surf Instructor
To become a certified surf instructor, the pathway involves a combination of formal training, gaining experience, and adhering to specific certification requirements. Here’s a detailed guide on the steps to follow:
Gain Surfing Experience
Before pursuing certification, ensure you are a proficient surfer with a strong passion for the sport. This involves continuously improving your surfing skills and understanding of ocean dynamics.
Complete a Level 1 Surfing Instructor Course
The foundational step is to complete a Level 1 Surfing Instructor Course from a recognized training organization.
| Course Component | Description | Duration |
| Theory Sessions | Covers safety, teaching methods, and lesson planning. | 2 Days |
| Practical Experience | Post-workshop practical teaching under supervision. | Varies |
| Assessments | Includes practical and theoretical assessments. | During course |
Obtain Required Certifications
Alongside the surfing instructor certificate, you need to hold current certificates in both Surf Rescue and Senior First Aid.
| Certificate Type | Purpose |
| Surf Rescue | To ensure you can effectively manage and rescue students in water. |
| Senior First Aid | Prepares you to handle medical emergencies during surfing lessons. |
Register with a Surfing Association
Registration with a reputable surfing association or body enhances your credibility and professional standing.
Gain Teaching Experience
Start gaining practical teaching experience by assisting experienced instructors or volunteering at local surf schools. This will help you develop effective communication and teaching strategies tailored to different learners.
Continual Professional Development
Stay updated on the latest surfing techniques, safety protocols, and educational methodologies. Renew your certification annually to maintain your qualification as a surf instructor.
Surfing Schools for Surf Instructors
For aspiring surf instructors eager to carve their waves into the world of professional surfing, selecting a top-notch surf school is pivotal.
Here’s a detailed overview of the top recommended surfing schools, each uniquely equipped to transform your passion into a profession.
Stoked Surf Adventure Academy
- Location: Diverse locations globally
- Program Highlights: Offers comprehensive programs blending practical surf instruction with theoretical knowledge.
- Unique Selling Point: Known for its vibrant community and global networking opportunities.
Surf South West
- Location: United Kingdom
- Program Highlights: Renowned for its high-quality training and adherence to international standards.
- Unique Selling Point: Offers a picturesque training environment combined with a robust curriculum.
Ticket to Ride
- Location: Multiple locations, including South Africa and the UK
- Program Highlights: Provides an immersive learning experience that extends beyond surfing to include cultural and environmental education.
- Unique Selling Point: Known for its adventure-packed programs and community service components.
These schools not only focus on enhancing your surfing prowess but also on developing the essential skills needed to teach, inspire, and lead in the surfing world. They provide certifications recognized globally, making your journey as a surf instructor both fulfilling and expansive. Here’s a table summarizing the key aspects:
| School | Location | Program Highlights | Unique Selling Point |
| Stoked Surf Adventure Academy | Global | Comprehensive blend of practical and theoretical instruction | Vibrant community and networking |
| Surf South West | United Kingdom | High-quality training with international standards | Scenic training environment and robust curriculum |
| Ticket to Ride | Multiple (incl. South Africa, UK) | Immersive experience with cultural and environmental education | Adventure-packed programs with community service |
These institutions are not just schools; they’re gateways to a lifestyle where your job is your passion, allowing you to meet kindred spirits, travel to stunning locales, and make a tangible impact on the lives of budding surfers.
3 Tips When Applying for a Job
When applying for a job as a surf instructor, here are three essential tips to consider:
Certifications and Experience
Acquiring the right certifications and gaining hands-on experience are vital. Ensure you have a valid CPR and First Aid certificate, along with a recognised surf instructor certification (e.g., from ISA or NSSIA).
It’s equally important to have substantial surfing experience, preferably 2-3 years, to demonstrate your capability and understanding of various wave conditions.
Communication and Teaching Skills
Effective communication and robust teaching skills are crucial for a surf instructor. You’ll be guiding students of varying skill levels, so the ability to clearly convey instructions and provide constructive feedback is essential.
These skills not only ensure safety but also enhance the learning experience, making your lessons more engaging and rewarding.
Passion and Networking
Expressing a genuine passion for surfing can significantly influence your employability. Demonstrating enthusiasm for the sport through your application materials and interactions can set you apart. Additionally, networking within the surfing community can open up more job opportunities.
Engaging with local surf clubs and attending surf-related events are excellent ways to connect with potential employers and fellow surf enthusiasts.
| Certifications Needed | Experience Requirements | Key Skills |
| CPR and First Aid ISA or NSSIA Surf Instructor |
Minimum 2-3 years active surfing | Strong communication Effective teaching methods |
| Local laws awareness | Familiarity with various surf conditions | Passion for surfing Networking abilities |
Conclusion
Becoming a surf teacher isn’t just about training; it’s also about living a life full of love, health, and happiness. The first step is to get good at surfing. The next step is to finish an approved teacher’s school. Here, you’ll learn a lot about surf theory, safety, and how to teach surfing well. In addition to getting the right training, like surf rescue and senior first aid, you should also join a respected surfing group.
As a qualified surf teacher, the ocean is your school, and each lesson is a chance to teach students not only how to surf but also how to care deeply about the ocean environment. The job is very broad, encompassing everything from teaching people how to surf to teaching them values that protect and respect our seas. You’ll have the freedom to set your own hours and travel schedule, which will make every day an adventure as you teach others how to surf.
Picking the right surf school is very important because it not only improves your skills but also connects you with other surfers around the world. Stoked Surf Adventure Academy, Surf South West, and Ticket to Ride are just a few of the surfing schools that offer complete programs that can help you get a great job teaching surfing.
