Become a Certified Surf Instructor with NQY Surf School

Launch Your Surf Coaching Career
at Great Western Beach, Newquay

Embark on a fulfilling and dynamic career as a surf instructor – one of the most rewarding roles imaginable.

At NQY Surf School, located on the iconic Great Western Beach in Newquay, Cornwall, we offer the opportunity to turn your passion for surfing into a professional qualification and a lifestyle many only dream of.

As a surf instructor, you’ll share your love for the ocean, your skills, and your knowledge with others, witnessing the excitement and joy of your students as they experience surfing for the first time. You’ll work in an environment surrounded by like-minded, passionate individuals, enjoy a uniquely active lifestyle, and become part of a vibrant surf culture.

This isn’t just a job – it’s a journey of personal and professional development. You’ll build valuable coaching, communication, and leadership skills while earning a living doing something you love.

Why learn on Great Western Beach?

Set beneath towering cliffs and just minutes from Newquay town centre, Great Western Beach is not only a breathtaking place to learn and teach – it’s also Newquay’s original surfing beach.

With a legacy stretching back to the 1960s, when stand-up surfing first arrived in the UK, Great Western quickly became a beloved surf spot for both locals and holidaymakers. Its consistent waves, sheltered position, and rich surfing heritage make it the perfect location to begin your journey as a surf coach.

There’s no better classroom than this one – where the roots of British surf culture run deep and every wave tells a story.

Your Path to Certification:
Surfing England Surf Instructor Course

Our Surfing England-accredited course, recognised worldwide, marks the beginning of your surf coaching career. You’ll develop the essential “how to coach” techniques and technical surf skills required to safely and confidently lead beginner surf lessons.

  • Online or workshop-based theory modules (approx. 10 hours)
  • 20 hours of practical beachside training with experienced Surfing England Trainer Assessors
  • Ongoing mentoring and skill development
  • A final assessment to confirm your readiness to coach

Upon successful completion, you’ll be qualified to coach beginner-level sessions in waist-deep water, equipped with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to deliver safe, engaging, and inspiring lessons.

 
 
 
 
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Course Requirements

You can start your journey today, but to complete your qualification as a Surfing England Surf Instructor, you must:

Certifications & Training

  • Signed Coaches Code of Conduct
  • Valid Beach Lifeguard or Surf Lifesaving Award
  • Safeguarding Training
    • Surfing England’s Surf Safeguarding Course, or
    • NSPCC Safeguarding in Sport online module

Surfing Ability

  • Paddle out and turtle roll
  • Catch green waves
  • Bottom turn and trim left and right

Age Requirements

  • 16+: Junior Instructor (must be supervised by an adult instructor)
  • 18+: Full Instructor Certification

For Disabled Trainees:

Trainees who are unable to complete all physical requirements due to disability can still qualify as a Supported Surf Instructor. They must be capable of leading lessons through verbal instruction and work alongside a qualified colleague. Group ratios adjust accordingly (e.g. 2:8).

Why Train with NQY Surf School?

  • Train at Newquay’s original surfing beach – Great Western Beach
  • Gain a globally recognised qualification with Surfing England
  • Access expert mentorship from industry professionals
  • Become part of a thriving surf community
  • Potential employment opportunities with NQY Surf School upon certification

Ready to Ride the Wave?

Join us at NQY Surf School and take the first step toward a career that combines purpose, passion, and a lifestyle like no other.

Whether you’re local or from afar, this is your opportunity to build a meaningful future in surf coaching – right here in the surf capital of the UK.

Get Started