An Independent Alternative Provision in Littlehampton

Learning Through Diving – Building Confidence, Calm, and Connection

At Abyss Scuba School, we use the power of the underwater world to help young people grow in confidence, resilience, and self-awareness.
Our diving and marine-based programmes are designed for learners who thrive through practical, sensory, and experience-based education, helping them develop real-world skills in a calm, supportive, and inspiring environment.

Learning to Stay Calm Underwater

Scuba diving and snorkelling are more than just exciting activities, they’re powerful tools for personal growth. Every dive teaches young people how to stay calm, manage challenges, and find focus even when things feel uncertain.

Through guided sessions in our on-site heated pool and local coastal environments, students learn to:

• Control their breathing – Slow, steady breathing conserves energy and helps manage anxiety, promoting emotional regulation and focus both underwater and in daily life.

• Manage stress and problem-solve – Underwater exploration builds confidence and teaches young people to think clearly, adapt quickly, and remain calm under pressure.

• Stay present and mindful – The stillness of the underwater world encourages mindfulness and awareness. Learners experience peace, focus, and a stronger sense of connection to themselves and their surroundings.

Who Can Benefit?

Our Alternative Provision supports students who may find mainstream education overwhelming or need a more hands-on, therapeutic approach to learning. We welcome:

• Young people requiring alternative or part-time education pathways

• Learners with autism, ADHD, or SEMH needs

• Individuals experiencing anxiety, low confidence, or school-based trauma

• Students who benefit from outdoor, sensory-based, and experiential learning

• Anyone who would gain from developing resilience, confidence, and teamwork through structured adventure and support

A Student-Led Learning Experience

It’s not just about diving, it’s about discovery.

Our adapted underwater sessions draw inspiration from youth diving programmes and are tailored to meet the needs of each learner. We combine snorkelling, shallow water diving, and marine exploration to build confidence at every stage.

Alongside diving, students engage in a broad range of coastal and environmental learning:

• Marine Ecology & Conservation – Exploring local habitats, wildlife, and the importance of protecting our oceans.

• Practical Science – Understanding buoyancy, pressure, and the physical effects of diving, making learning hands-on and relevant.

• Real-World Maths – Calculating time, depth, and air use develops problem-solving and numeracy skills in a practical, engaging way.

• Communication & Reflection – Writing dive journals, sharing experiences, and group discussions promote literacy, emotional regulation, and teamwork.

Every session is designed to nurture confidence, curiosity, and calm, empowering each young person to achieve personal growth at their own pace.

Our Facilities

Based at Littlehampton Marina, our purpose-built centre includes:

• A heated indoor training pool with viewing window

• Fully equipped classrooms for supported learning and workshops

• Access to beach, harbour, and marine environments for real-world exploration

• Changing facilities, sensory areas, and calm spaces for relaxation

All staff are safer recruitment trained, hold enhanced DBS and S128 checks, and are experienced in working with young people with SEN and SEMH needs.

Partner With Us

At Abyss Scuba School, we believe learning should be immersive, meaningful, and empowering. We work closely with schools, SENCOs, and local authorities to provide bespoke placements and programmes that support emotional regulation, wellbeing, and social development.

Whether it’s short-term intervention, enrichment placements, or long-term education support, we’re here to help young people discover their potential both above and below the surface.

Together, we can help your students build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills through the transformative power of the ocean.