Course Information

Welcome to the Canadian Sport Parachuting Association (CSPA) Skydiving School Instructor (SSI) Program.

As a Skydiving School Instructor, you will be responsible for delivering First Jump Course (FJC) training to individuals making their first skydive. This role carries significant responsibility, as you will be teaching life-saving knowledge and skills to students with no prior experience.

This is not a flying course. There are no skydiving skills to be demonstrated and minimal time will be spent on the mechanics of skydiving. The focus of this course is instructional ability, communication, safety, structure, and professionalism.

Please read this page carefully and complete all pre-course tasks. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.

Course Objectives

• Understand the CSPA instructional model and rating structure

• Develop effective classroom teaching and presentation skills

• Learn how individuals and groups learn in high-risk environments

• Structure and deliver a complete First Jump Course following CSPA standards

• Apply effective communication strategies in instructional settings

• Manage classroom dynamics and student stress

• Prepare and organize a productive learning environment

• Demonstrate clear, confident delivery of safety-critical material

• Apply Basic Safety Rules (BSRs) and technical recommendations accurately

• Demonstrate professionalism, leadership, and instructional accountability within a drop zone environment

Prerequisites

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Coach 1 Trained

• Active CSPA B CoP

• Minimum 200 jumps

• Completion of the SSI Pre-Course Journal

• Observe two full First Jump Courses within the previous year

• Teach two modules of a First Jump Course within the previous year under the direct supervision of a certified/experienced SSI

• Complete the course preparation review

• Willingness to learn and professionally represent skydiving

Failure to meet prerequisites may result in removal from the course.

Costs

• $400 Course Fee

• $45 CSPA Administration Fee

• A $200 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot.

  • Your spot is NOT secured unless your deposit is paid

  • Remaining balance is due two weeks before the course

Extra fees if charged by the DZ (packing, classroom fee etc.) This will be divided among the candidates.

Logistics

The course runs for three full days.

Daily schedules depend on:

• Drop zone logistics

• Weather

• Candidate progress

• Effective time management

Expect flexibility. Some days may run late.

Time management is a critical instructor skill. You are expected to:

• Arrive prepared and on time

• Use downtime productively (eating, preparing lesson plans, reviewing materials, preparing for evaluations)

• Be ready to begin each day at the time specified

• Bring your own food and plan accordingly.

Required Course Materials

Available on the CSPA website (digital or paper):

1. SSI Reference Manual

2. SSI Pre-Course Journal and Learning Guide

3. CSPA PIM 1

Pre-Course Tasks

Before attending, you must:

• Complete the SSI Pre-Course Journal, including all practical requirements

Review and the following:

• The CSPA Ratings Model

• SSI prerequisites, privileges and certification requirements

• Basic Safety Rules (BSRs) and Technical Recommendations

• First Jump Course review

• Solo Certificate test

• CSPA PIM 1

Candidates who arrive unprepared may not be permitted to continue.

Evaluations

During this course, you will be evaluated on your ability to perform as an SSI. This includes instructional delivery, presentation ability, technical accuracy, and knowledge of CSPA standards.

Evaluations will include:

• Assigned teaching tasks simulating a First Jump Course following the CSPA format

• Written exam

• BSR exam (100% required to pass)

In addition, you will be assessed on attitude, professionalism, coachability, teamwork, and preparedness.

Location Information

Courses may be conducted at various drop zones. The location must provide an appropriate and safe learning environment with adequate classroom space and training aids consistent with a First Jump Course setting.

REGISTRATION

To register, email info@gravityworks.ca to confirm space and provide a deposit. Complete the registration form only when instructed to do so.