Solway Sub-Aqua Club member becomes youngest BSAC instructor in UK

At just 15 years old, Emily Strain achieved this milestone after successfully completing the Instructor Foundation Course with the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) in Chester.

Her strong performance in both teaching theory and practical lessons set her apart, making her the youngest candidate to pass the course.

She demonstrated exceptional skill in presenting and teaching safely to both adult candidates and national instructors, according to her club, the Solway Sub-Aqua Club.

Emily has been diving since she was just 12 years old. (Image: Supplied)

A student at West Lakes Academy in Egremont, Emily is currently preparing for her GCSEs. She hopes that her passion for diving, combined with her academic studies, will pave the way for her to pursue marine sciences in the future.

When Emily turns 16, she will be qualified to train divers in swimming pools at Hensingham and open water sites such as Wasdale, under the supervision of experienced instructors.

At 18, she will be eligible to become a fully independent instructor. Meanwhile, she will join her local club to assist in teaching new divers.

Emily under the water. (Image: Supplied)

Emily’s diving journey began at age 12, and she has only ever undertaken cold water diving, which requires proficiency with protective gear like a drysuit. This suit needs careful management as it compresses at depth, requiring controlled inflation to avoid dangerous ascents.

Emily enjoys exploring dive sites across the north of the UK. She has explored 'deep dark' shipwrecks off the west coast of Scotland, dived with seals at the Farne Islands, and frequently trains at Capernwray, navigating through its submerged aircraft.

Emily receiving her qualification following intensive training. (Image: Supplied)

Andrew Brach, secretary of the Solway Sub-Aqua Club, said:  “Having Emily as an instructor will be a massive advantage to the club. The more students can identify with their instructors, the more they will benefit from their sessions.

Emily will now assist in supporting other people to learn how to dive. (Image: Supplied)

"It would be wonderful to see more young people learn to dive. Emily, already the Youth Officer on our committee, represents a great asset in helping to broaden our appeal.”

Emily is a member of the Solway Sub-Aqua Club, which meets every Monday night at Hensingham pool from 8 to 9pm and dives in local lakes throughout the week.