This course is designed for individuals looking to start a career in surf instruction. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to teach basic surfing techniques, safety procedures and surf awareness
Outer Reef Academy International Surf Instructor Courses
Transform Your Passion Into A Career
Ready to become a certified surf instructor and turn your passion into a rewarding career? Outer Reef Academy offers comprehensive ISA surf instructor courses across 8+ international destinations, from 1-week programs starting at £525 to 12-week professional certifications. With 25+ years of surf instruction expertise and 100% job placement support, we've trained over 6,500 surf instructors who now work worldwide.
Course Destinations
Choose your perfect surf instructor training destination from our internationally recognised ISA certification programs. Train across Wales (Pembrokeshire), France, Spain (Canary Islands), Portugal, and Bali (Indonesia) - then work anywhere in the world with your globally accepted qualifications.
From tropical Indonesian waves to Atlantic swells in Wales - choose the destination that matches your dream career path.
Ready to make waves in your career? Your instructor journey awaits!
Complete Surf Instructor Certification Portfolio:
• ISA Level 1 & 2 Surf Instructor Certification - Core teaching qualifications recognized worldwide
• ISA/ILS International Surf and SUP Instructor Aquatic Rescue & Safety - Essential water safety skills
• ISA Flat Water and Open Water SUP Instructor Courses - Expand your teaching to stand-up paddleboarding
• SLSGB Surf Coach Rescue & Safety - UK-specific lifeguard and rescue training
• Surf Lifeguard Certifications - Professional beach safety qualifications
Why Train Internationally?
✓ Experience different surf conditions and teaching environments
✓ Build cultural awareness for working with international clients
✓ Network with instructors from around the world
✓ Combine your certification with an unforgettable travel experience
✓ Graduate with confidence to teach anywhere globally
Why Choose Outer Reef Academy?
✓ Job Placement support - Every graduate finds work in the surf industry
✓ 25+ Years Experience - Over 4,500 instructors trained worldwide
✓ 8 International Locations - Train where the waves are perfect
✓ Rip Curl Sponsored - Industry leading partnerships and support
✓ All-Inclusive Programs - Accommodation, equipment, and certification included
✓ Expert Instruction - Learn from ISA-qualified professionals with real-world experience
✓ 25+ Years Experience - Over 4,500 instructors trained worldwide
✓ 8 International Locations - Train where the waves are perfect
✓ Rip Curl Sponsored - Industry leading partnerships and support
✓ All-Inclusive Programs - Accommodation, equipment, and certification included
✓ Expert Instruction - Learn from ISA-qualified professionals with real-world experience
Your Journey Starts Here From nervous beginner to confident professional instructor in just 4-8 weeks. Join thousands of successful graduates now working at surf schools, resorts, and academies across the globe. This isn't just a course - it's your gateway to the ultimate surf lifestyle.
Discover Courses
ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor Course | OUTER REEF SURF INSTRUCTOR ACADEMY
ISA Level 2 Surf Instructor Course
This advanced course is for individuals looking to improve their teaching skills and gain a deeper understanding of surf instruction. It covers more advanced teaching techniques, as well as assessment and analysis of student progress
ISA/ILS International Surf and SUP Instructor Aquatic Rescue and Safety Course
This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to perform rescues and emergency procedures in a surf or SUP environment. It is essential for anyone looking to work as a surf or SUP instructor
ISA Flat Water SUP Instructor Course
This course is designed for individuals who want to teach Stand-up Paddleboarding on flat water, like lakes and rivers. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to teach basic techniques, safety procedures, and equipment usage
ISA Open Water SUP Instructor Course
This course is designed for individuals who want to teach Stand-up Paddleboarding on open water, like the ocean. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to teach advanced techniques, safety procedures, and equipment usage
SLSGB Surf Coach Rescue & Safety courses
This course is designed for individuals who want to become surf coaches. It covers the knowledge and skills needed to teach surf techniques, safety procedures and surf awareness
This course is designed for individuals who want to work as a beach lifeguard. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to perform rescues and emergency procedures in a surf and beach environment
Start Your Journey Today
Don't hesitate to contact us today with any questions or to book your spot. We look forward to helping you advance your surf and paddle boarding instruction career!
testimonials
Jake, Level 2 ISA Instructor
"Completing my ISA Level 1 & 2 with Outer Reef Academy in Bali was the best decision I ever made! The 4 week program was intense but incredible from learning wave theory in the tropical classroom to practicing rescue techniques in perfect Indonesian barrels. The instructors' 25+ years of experience really showed they didn't just teach us to surf, they taught us to read conditions, manage groups, and handle any situation safely. Six months later, I'm now head instructor at a resort in the Maldives earning more than I ever did in my office job. The international recognition of ISA certification opened doors I never imagined. Outer Reef didn't just give me qualifications they gave me a lifestyle!"
★★★★★
Sophie, ISA/ILS Instructor & Lifeguard (Trained in Wales)
"Starting my instructor journey at Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire was perfect for building solid foundations. The Welsh conditions taught me to handle everything from gentle rollers to powerful winter swells. What sets Outer Reef Academy apart is their comprehensive approach I left with ISA Level 1 & 2, SLSGB Lifeguard certification, and SUP instructor qualifications all in one program. The support didn't end at graduation either. Within two weeks, I was placed at a surf school in Portugal, and now I'm running my own surf camps across Europe. The academy's 100% job placement rate isn't just a statistic - it's a promise they deliver on. Best investment I ever made in myself!"
★★★★★
Marcus, Professional Surf Coach (Trained in Portugal)
"After 10 years as a recreational surfer, I wanted to turn my passion professional. Outer Reef Academy's Portugal program exceeded every expectation. Training along the Algarve's consistent breaks with world-class instructors was incredible, but what impressed me most was the business side - they taught us marketing, customer service, and how to actually build a career in surfing. The Rip Curl sponsorship and industry connections opened doors immediately. I'm now coaching at three different surf schools, running private lessons, and just launched my own surf photography business. The academy didn't just certify me as an instructor - they equipped me with everything needed to succeed in the surf industry. Five years later, I'm still part of the Outer Reef family!"
★★★★★
OUTER REEF SURF INSTRUCTOR ACADEMY
Course Dates
Unlock your potential and join us for our ISA certified Surf and Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Instructor courses, paired with our essential lifeguard training. Our ILS and SLSGB Surf Coach and Beach Lifeguard certificates are internationally recognised. Dive into the details below to discover upcoming course dates and embark on a journey to become a certified water sports instructor and lifeguard with Outer Reef.
Elevate your skills against the dramatic backdrop of Pembrokeshire's wild coastline, where every wave is a testament to the untamed beauty of Wales. ISA and SLSGB Courses.
Course Dates & Prices:
SLSGB Surf Coach Rescue and Beach Lifeguard £225
- Mon, 10 Feb 2025 - Fri, 14 Feb 2025
- Mon, 7 Apr 2025 - Fri, 11 Apr 2025
- Mon, 12 May 2025 - Fri, 16 May 2025
- Mon, 16 Jun 2025 - Fri, 20 Jun 2025
- Mon, 11 Aug 2025 - Fri, 15 Aug 2025
- Mon, 13 Oct 2025 - Fri, 17 Oct 2025
ISA LEVEL 1 COURSES £300
- Sat, 15 Feb 2025 - Sun, 16 Feb 2025
- Sat, 12 Apr 2025 - Sun, 13 Apr 2025
- Sat, 17 May 2025 - Sun, 18 May 2025
- Sat, 21 Jun 2025 - Sun, 22 Jun 2025
- Sat, 16 Aug 2025 - Sun, 17 Aug 2025
- Sat, 18 Oct 2025 - Sun, 19 Oct 2025
ISA LEVEL 2 COURSES £400
Coming Soon
Experience the essence of European surf culture in France. Join us for ISA/ILS courses amidst picturesque beaches and the laid-back lifestyle of the French coast.
Course Dates:
ISA Level 1
13.09.2025 - 20.09.2025
24.09.2025 - 01.10.2025
04.10.2025 - 11.10.2025
02.05.2026 - 09.05.2026
13.05.2026 - 20.05.2026
ILS Lifeguard Courses :
20.09.2025 - 23.09.2025
01.10.2025 - 04.10.2025
11.10.2025 - 14.10.2025
15.10.2025 - 18.10.2025
29.04.2026 - 02.05.2026
09.05.2026 - 12.05.2026
20.05.2026 - 23.05.2026
Choose Spain for your ISA/ILS-certified journey. Our courses blend skill-building with the sunny warmth of Spain's coastal beauty, creating a unique learning experience.
Course Dates: Find out more
Surf the waves of Portugal while earning your ISA/ILS certification. Immerse yourself in a country with a rich maritime heritage, offering exceptional surf conditions for your training.
Course Dates:
ISA Level 1
15.11.2025 - 22.11.2025
15.03.2026 - 22.03.2026
ISA Level 2 Get in Touch Find Out More
ILS Lifesaver
22.11.2025 - 25.11.2025
22.03.2026 - 25.03.2026
Immerse yourself in the surfing haven of Bali. Train amidst lush landscapes and vibrant culture, turning your ISA/ILS certification into a tropical adventure.
Course Dates:
Train, Surf, and Grow at Handpicked Destinations Worldwide
Discover Our Surf Instructor Academy Locations
Train with certified instructors, practice on surfskates, and build ocean resilience through our surf-specific apnea program. Break down complex techniques, master ocean reading, and pop up with consistency.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SURF INSTRUCTOR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ARE WETSUITS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
Yes! All of our Courses and packages include FREE wetsuit hire.
I DON’T KNOW MY WETSUIT SIZE, WHAT SHOULD I PUT?
Let us know what dress size or jumper you wear
I HAVE MY OWN WETSUIT, CAN I WEAR IT?
Of course you can! If you only have a shortie or are unsure if it still fits you (don't worry it happens!), let us know what size you are anyway and we can bring you a suit just in case.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING FOR MY ACTIVITIES?
- A swimming costume/shorts
- A beach towel
- Some flip flops or shoes to walk over the pebbles (if needed)
- Any medication you may need (eg. Asthma inhaler)
- Warm clothes to change into afterwards
- A big smile and a sense of adventure
SUP: For ease, we recommend using one of ours. They are all top of the range O’shea, Jobe and Finla boards.
Surf: If you have your own board you are more than welcome to use it but we do recommend one of our Foam boards as they really help when you are learning
The beauty of watersports is that anyone can give them a go! We have taken people on the water from every walk of life imaginable. All we ask is that you can swim at least 25m unaided as this is for your safety.
I HAVE A MEDICAL CONDITION, CAN I STILL COME?
Yes, in most cases you can absolutely still come along to our weekends. All of our instructors take ‘rescue bags’ out on the water with them so any medications can go into this bag for the duration of the activities. If you would like to discuss this with us further, please drop us an email and a member of the team will contact you.
DO I NEED TO BE A STRONG SWIMMER?
We do ask that you can swim at least 400m unaided in 8 minutes inorder to join us on any one of our instructor courses
We use various accommodation providers across the globe depending on the season and location. Please feel free to get in touch.
Your accommodation will be well signposted with Outer Reef signage for your arrival and you can check in. The following day your team of instructors for the week will meet you just inside your accommodation at 9am for a meet & greet.
Our accommodation providers meals so you can make your own lunches we recommend packed lunches or you can buy lunch at the beach venue.
IS THERE SOMEWHERE TO SHOWER OR CHANGE AT THE ACTIVITY LOCATIONS?
Our locations do not have changing facilities so we recommend wearing your swimming costume under your clothes. Tenby North beach has a cold water public shower that is free to use. All other locations do not have shower facilities. We recommend bringing a towel robe or Dry Robe to change after your session.
All of our locations have toilet facilities.
IS THERE ANYWHERE I CAN LEAVE MY BELONGINGS WHEN WE ARE ON THE WATER?
Yes! You can leave your car keys etc in our vans or our lock ups (depending on the location). Outer Reef does not take responsibility for any items left and we do have limited space so please don’t bring your diamond jewellery and massive overnight bags!
I'VE HAD TO CHANGE MY PLANS AND CAN’T COME ANYMORE. WHAT CAN I DO?
Don’t worry, we understand these things happen.
If you cancel more than 3 months before your arrival date, we are able to give you a full refund.
If it is less than 3 weeks before, we will endeavour to fill your spot. If we are unable to do so, we will issue a voucher for the value of the activities which you can spend in one of our stores or on activities in future. Unfortunately we are unable to refund the accommodation.
TOP QUALITY EQUIPMENT PROVIDED & EPIC ACCOMMODATIONS
Surf instructor training courses
From as little as £525pp
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