Course purpose
Skydiving School Instructor (SSI) focuses on instructional ability, communication, safety, structure and professionalism. This is not a flying course: no skydiving skills are demonstrated, and little time is spent on the mechanics of skydiving.
- Understand the CSPA instructional model and rating structure.
- Develop classroom teaching and presentation skills.
- Understand how individuals and groups learn in high-risk environments.
- Structure and deliver a complete First Jump Course to CSPA standards.
- Manage classroom dynamics and student stress.
- Prepare a productive learning environment.
- Deliver safety-critical material clearly and confidently.
- Apply Basic Safety Rules (BSRs) and technical recommendations accurately.
- Demonstrate leadership and instructional accountability.
Prerequisites
- Coach 1 trained
- Active CSPA B Certificate of Proficiency (CoP)
- At least 200 jumps
- Completion of the SSI Pre-Course Journal
- Observation of two complete First Jump Courses within the previous year
- Teaching of two First Jump Course modules within the previous year, under direct supervision of a certified, experienced SSI
- Completion of the course preparation review
- Willingness to learn and professionally represent skydiving
Candidates who do not meet prerequisites may not be permitted to continue.
Course format
The course runs for three full days. Timing depends on drop zone logistics, conditions, candidate progress and time management. Be ready to begin on time; some days may run late.
Bring food and use downtime to prepare lesson plans, review material and prepare for evaluations.
Required materials
Bring digital or paper copies of:
- SSI Reference Manual
- SSI Pre-Course Journal and Learning Guide
- CSPA PIM 1
Preparation
Complete the SSI Pre-Course Journal, including its practical requirements. Review:
- The CSPA Ratings Model
- SSI prerequisites, privileges and certification requirements
- Basic Safety Rules and Technical Recommendations
- First Jump Course content
- The Solo Certificate test
- CSPA PIM 1
Candidates who arrive unprepared may not be permitted to continue.
Evaluations & completion
Evaluation covers instructional delivery, presentation ability, technical accuracy and knowledge of CSPA standards.
- Assigned teaching tasks simulating a First Jump Course in the CSPA format
- Written exam
- BSR exam — 100% is required to pass
Attitude, professionalism, coachability, teamwork and preparedness are also assessed.
Costs & logistics
Contact GravityWorks for course availability and current rates. Expenses may include CSPA administration, shared travel and accommodation, and drop zone charges such as packing or classroom fees. Confirm the applicable expenses when arranging your course.
The location must provide a safe learning environment with adequate classroom space and training aids appropriate for a First Jump Course.