The Sandals Aqua Centers directed by Mr. Michael Clarke have seen significant growth over the last decade in all areas of watersports but especially in Scuba Diving. One of the key aspects is that of training and developing team members to become PADI professionals.
Windell John, Regional Watersports Manager, Sandal Resorts International, in speaking about the programme, said, “we have been able to not only certify Scuba Instructors but to also assist in job placement within our resorts throughout the Caribbean. It is always a proud moment for us when we visit a resort after a few years of training new Instructors. We see the way they thrive and have developed. This is what really motivates us to keep teaching”.
John added, “this year in Saint Lucia, we have sixteen students who have already begun their journey with us and who have just completed their advanced certification. They will soon be ready to move on to the next level which is Rescue Diver, then on to Dive Master as we prepare them for the ultimate certification, the PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor programme”.
The PADI FOUNDATION and the SANDALS DIVE TEAM in Saint Lucia have partnered to make this a reality by sponsoring all the materials and certification of the students for the two courses previously mentioned.
The following students are scheduled to participate – Glenn Bernadine, Sherlaura Amos, Kenvie Polius, Kerneil Cox , Dennise Didier, Ridley Alexander , Sheldon Justin , Ozem Thomas , Gracey Alcide, Aqualiah Smith, Alex Regis, Reshaun James , Kacy Paul, Kareem Antoine , Darnel Fontenelle and Kieashon Small.
At present, only six of the students are employed with Sandals Resorts and the others are aspiring to become hospitality professionals through this training and certification process.
On successful completion of all programme requirements, and pending any vacancies, these students will be among the first picks for job placement in any Sandals resort across the chain.
SOURCE: Sandals Resorts
