Recruiting young people (from age 12 ideally so they can complete Ocean Diver) is important for the sustainability of our community of clubs.
We've consulted with successful clubs and curated strategies to engage young people. These approaches we believe will bring renewed energy and cross-generational camaraderie, making it a win-win for members of all ages.
Please also see Buxton Sub-Aqua Club’s story on how they managed to engage and grow the number of young people in their club.
If you have any feedback or if would like to share your club’s successful activities recruiting young people, please email marketing@bsac.com.
Top tips to recruit young people
Peer-to-peer referrals
If you have any already, encourage current young members to invite their friends and classmates to try diving. Plus, your existing adult members could invite along young people they know. Offering some kind of incentive could motivate them to spread the word.
Young people are highly influenced by their social groups, so providing a positive experience to them could be communicated to 4-6 of their peers/friends, on average, who may then decide to get involved.
Parent involvement
Assure parents of the benefits of scuba diving/snorkelling, including skill development, physical activity and building confidence. Consider holding parent orientation sessions to address their concerns and showcase the safety measures in place. Parents are more aware now of child protection and checks, so it is important to ensure all those practices and policies are embedded in the club.
Run Try Dive events
Offer affordable trial sessions where potential young divers can experience the thrill of scuba diving firsthand. Provide a taste of what your club has to offer.
By networking with other local organisations, you could develop a symbiotic relationship – for example offer the local clubs, Scouts etc an opportunity to have a try dive experience – this can also serve as a way to earn extra income for the club. Is there a local college undertaking outdoor course – could you make contact with them – they’re always keen to give their students extra and more diverse opportunities?
Credit: EUSAC
Community presentations
Deliver engaging talks at local community centres, schools and youth clubs about the wonders of scuba diving (or snorkelling) and the opportunities your club provides for young individuals. This could capture the attention of young people. Ensure you give clear information on what they need to do if interested, such as sign up for a Try Dive.
Clear communication and youth-centric advertising
Ensure that your club's website, social media and promotional materials clearly convey the benefits of joining, the available programmes and the steps to get started.
The use of social media is particularly important for young people. Create content tailored to young audiences on social media platforms, showcasing the fun, adventure and educational aspects of diving. Utilise platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube to reach potential young divers.
Top tip: If you don’t have your own, BSAC has short videos you can use for this.
Strong website presence
Develop a modern, user-friendly website with a dedicated section for young divers. Include captivating visuals, success stories and information about junior diving programmes to pique their interest.
Top tip: BSAC’s partner Platform can help clubs set up a great website without the hassle.
For under 18s only
Family-friendly events
Organise family-orientated open events where parents and children can join in on Try Dives or snorkelling activities. This could encourage young people to participate alongside their parents/families.
For 18-25s only
University and college engagement
Collaborate with local universities and colleges (if they don’t have a BSAC club already) to set up stands at student events and fairs. Highlight the adventure and stress-relieving aspects of diving, appealing to young adults dealing with academic pressures.
So what makes a great experience for young people?
Once you have young people coming along to your club, you need to ensure they have a great experience and therefore stay.
Providing a great experience is key to maintaining ongoing engagement between them and your club.
According to Sport England research shows that young people are seeking experiences that are:
Credit: Buxton SAC
- Social. Clubs should aim to provide an environment where young people are with their friends, feel comfortable and enjoy spending time as part of their social lives.
- Interactive. Use technology where possible to engage young people. This could be through the sessions that you offer or how you promote your offer.
- Rewarding. Try to create opportunities for young people to give something back or enhance their skills, like helping to run sessions. This can help to boost their CV and give them new experiences.
- Personalised. Ensure your offer and activities are tailored, where possible, to the needs of young people. It is important to listen to what young people say and where you can, act on it.
- Inspiring. Find ways to inspire young people to get involved. Sport often competes with wider interests but young people respond well to experiences that help them develop.
