Despite being inland, the East Midlands region - covering Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Rutland and Northamptonshire - is buzzing with diving energy.
It’s home to a passionate and experienced coaching team who support divers and clubs with tailored training, Skill Development Courses, and mentoring.
The region thrives on collaboration - clubs work together, instructors grow through shared teaching, and divers explore beyond their local waters. It’s a place where community spirit meets diving ambition, and every course or event is a chance to learn, connect, and be inspired.
View upcoming East Midlands Region events
Your Regional Coach
About Denys Ilyushenko, East Midlands Region Coach
My diving journey began in 2014 with the Warwick University BSAC branch, where I quickly fell in love with both the underwater world and the art of instructing. What started as a hobby soon became a deep passion, driving me to progress through the BSAC training system. I’m proud to have achieved the First Class Diver award and am currently preparing for my National Instructor exam.
Looking back, I know this journey wouldn’t have been possible without the encouragement and guidance of fellow divers, instructors, and regional coaches. Their mentorship helped shape me into the diver and instructor I am today, and I’m incredibly grateful for the community that lifted me up.
Now, stepping into the role of East Midlands Regional Coach, I’m excited to give back. I look forward to working with a team of experienced, dedicated and passionate people, helping other divers and instructors grow in confidence, develop their skills, and discover the joy of teaching.
"To teach diving is to shape explorers - every skill you pass on becomes a doorway to wonder” - Unknown
How we help and support divers and clubs in the East Midlands Region
The East Midlands regional team plays a vital role in supporting both individual divers and clubs across the region. Here’s how we can help:
Support for Divers:
- Skill Development Courses (SDCs): Our team runs a wide range of SDCs to help divers at all levels build confidence, expand their skills, and advance through the BSAC training system.
- Progression Pathways: Whichever diving grade you’re aiming for, the regional team provides structured opportunities to meet your training needs.
- Access to Expertise: Divers will benefit from coaching and mentoring by some of BSAC’s most experienced instructors, helping them refine techniques and gain deeper knowledge.
Support for Instructors:
- Instructor Development: From Assistant Instructor to National Instructor, the team offers coaching, mentoring, and opportunities to develop and refine skills.
- Teaching Opportunities: Instructors can gain experience delivering SDCs and courses not typically available in their own clubs.
- Tailored Mentoring: The team can buddy instructors with experienced mentors to help them achieve specific development goals.
Support for Clubs:
- Training Assistance: Clubs can request help delivering courses or assessments when they lack the necessary instructor grades or numbers.
- Club Visits: Our team can visit clubs to provide guidance, run workshops, or assist with diver and instructor development.
- Community Building: The region fosters collaboration between clubs, encouraging shared events, cross-club training, and a strong sense of community.
The East Midlands region is all about creating a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring environment where divers and instructors can thrive. Whether you're looking to grow your skills, get involved in teaching, or connect with other clubs, the regional team is here to help you make the most of your BSAC journey.
Training and events in the East Midlands Region
East Midlands Regional Team primarily offers Skill Development Courses (SDCs), instructor training, and tailored coaching opportunities not always available through local clubs.
The events calendar is created to support divers and instructors by providing access to a broader range of training and development opportunities.
View upcoming East Midlands Region events
Want to join the regional coaching team?
The East Midlands regional coaching team is open to instructors of all grades - from newly-qualified Assistant instructors to National instructors. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your teaching experience, we offer a welcoming and supportive environment where you can thrive.
Joining the team is a fantastic opportunity to develop your instructional skills, gain confidence, and teach on a wide range of courses that may not be available through your club. We run a variety of Skill Development Courses (SDCs) and events across all diving grades, giving you the chance to work alongside and learn from some of BSAC’s most experienced and skilful instructors.
Our team is known for its friendly, close-knit community feel. We take pride in supporting each other, and we’re always happy to buddy up and tailor opportunities to suit your individual development goals. Along the way, you’ll not only grow as an instructor - you’ll also build lasting friendships and become part of a vibrant regional network.
Send us an email to find out more about joining the team.
Find us on social media and keep up to date with our activities:
East Midlands Region Facebook page
Email: east.midlands.coach@bsac.com
Whatsapp: ***TBC***
