PADI Bubblemaker
A Safe, Fun Introduction to Scuba Diving for Children.
Does your child love swimming and dream of exploring underwater? PADI Bubblemaker is a fantastic introduction to scuba diving for children aged 8 years and over. Conducted in shallow, confined water under the close supervision of a PADI Professional, it allows children to experience the excitement of breathing underwater in a fun, safe and controlled environment.
There are no exams, no pressure and no certification requirements — just smiles, confidence and an unforgettable experience.
What Is Bubblemaker?
Bubblemaker is an introductory scuba experience created especially for younger children. Using genuine scuba equipment designed for junior divers, children will learn how scuba equipment works, discover what it’s like to breathe underwater, swim around in shallow water, play simple underwater games, and build confidence in a safe environment.
Every activity takes place under the direct supervision of an experienced PADI Professional. The emphasis is always on having fun while introducing children to the underwater world safely.
Is Bubblemaker Right For My Child?
Bubblemaker is ideal for children who:
- Are at least 8 years old
- Enjoy swimming
- Are curious about scuba diving
- Want to try something different
- Feel confident in the water
- Would like an exciting birthday or family activity
No previous scuba experience is required. Parents often tell us their child has been asking to try scuba after watching documentaries, seeing fish while on holiday or watching family members dive. This is the perfect first step.
What Will They Learn?
Children will be introduced to:
- Basic scuba equipment
- Breathing underwater
- Equalising their ears
- Safe underwater movement
- Respecting the underwater environment
- Listening carefully to their instructor
The aim isn’t to teach complex diving skills. It’s simply to allow children to enjoy a safe and memorable first scuba experience.
What Happens During The Session?
Welcome
We’ll introduce ourselves, explain the equipment and answer any questions from both parents and children.
Getting Ready
Children are shown how the equipment works before entering the water. Everything is explained clearly using simple, age-appropriate language.
Underwater Fun
Once comfortable, children will enjoy breathing underwater, swimming around and taking part in supervised underwater activities, with plenty of encouragement and laughter.
Afterwards
We’ll talk through the experience with both parents and children and explain what opportunities are available if they’d like to continue their diving journey.
Safety Comes First
As parents ourselves and experienced instructors, we understand that safety is your biggest priority. Every Bubblemaker session is conducted in shallow confined water, under direct instructor supervision, using equipment suitable for younger divers, following current PADI standards, and at a pace that suits each child.
If a child isn’t comfortable with any part of the experience, there’s never any pressure to continue. The goal is for every child to leave smiling and wanting to come back.
Course Requirements
To participate your child must:
- Be at least 8 years old.
- Be comfortable in the water.
- Complete the required participant paperwork.
- Meet current medical requirements.
If you’re unsure whether Bubblemaker is suitable, we’d be delighted to discuss it with you before booking.
What Should They Bring?
- Swimwear
- A towel
- Any personal items requested in the booking confirmation
Scuba equipment follows the current booking page.
What Is Included?
- Instructor-led Bubblemaker session
- Use of scuba equipment
- Pool or confined-water entry
- Air fills
- Bubblemaker recognition materials where applicable
Duration
Arrive at 2:00pm. Children will be in the water from around 2:30pm for approximately an hour; the session finishes at 4:30pm. Please refer to the booking calendar for available dates and times.
Pool Sessions
Private Training
We can offer 1:1 teaching and private pool sessions by enquiry for many of our PADI courses.
This is ideal if you would prefer a quieter learning environment, want extra support, or need training arranged around your availability.
Private training is subject to instructor and pool availability, so please get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk through the best option for you.
Contact UsWhy Choose Wiltshire Scuba?
We love introducing children to scuba diving. Our experienced instructors know how to create a relaxed, supportive environment where children can build confidence while having fun.
Families choose Wiltshire Scuba because we offer:
- Mark Taylor (PADI Course Director) and Emma Taylor (PADI IDC Staff Instructor)
- Small group sizes (maximum 4 children per instructor — confirmed)
- High safety standards
- Quality equipment
- A welcoming family atmosphere
- Clear progression into future PADI youth programmes
Many of our youngest Bubblemakers return a few years later to become certified divers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bubblemaker a certification course?
No. Bubblemaker is an introductory scuba experience rather than a scuba certification.
What is the minimum age?
Children must be at least 8 years old.
Do parents need to stay?
We recommend that a parent or guardian remains on site throughout the session. Specific arrangements will be explained when booking.
Does my child need to be an excellent swimmer?
No. However, children should be comfortable in the water and able to follow their instructor’s directions.
What if my child becomes nervous?
That’s perfectly normal. Our instructors are experienced at working with children and will never pressure anyone to continue if they’re uncomfortable.
What comes after Bubblemaker?
Many children continue with PADI Seal Team, Discover Scuba Diving (when age appropriate), and PADI Open Water Diver when they reach the required minimum age.
Related Courses
Where Could Their Diving Journey Take Them?
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Try Breathing Underwater — you are here
Experience breathing underwater for the first time.
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Build Confidence
Join PADI Seal Team and complete exciting AquaMissions.
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Become a Certified Diver
Progress to Junior Open Water Diver when old enough (minimum age 10).
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Continue Learning
Advance through the PADI system while developing confidence and experience.
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A Lifetime of Adventure
Many professional divers began with exactly the same first underwater experience.
Ready to Introduce Your Child to Scuba Diving?
Give them an experience they’ll remember for years. Book a Bubblemaker session today or contact our friendly team if you’d like to find out more.