Dive Training Excellence Just Got Even Stronger: Stuart Girdler Joins the RAID UK Examiner Team!

There’s some incredibly exciting news filtering up from the RAID UK headquarters this week. We are absolutely thrilled to officially announce the promotion of Stuart Girdler to the rank of Examiner.

If you know anything about the RAID training system, you know this is a massive deal. The Examiner rating isn't just another card in the wallet—it is the highest possible qualification within the agency and one of the most respected, sought-after badges of honor in the entire diving industry.

What Does This Mean for RAID UK Divers?

As an Examiner, Stuart isn't just teaching divers; he’s teaching the people who teach the divers. He is joining an elite, powerhouse team managed directly by RAID UK’s Managing Director, James Rogers, working alongside industry legends Pete Black and Garry Dallas.

Together, this team is responsible for molding the next generation of top-tier recreational and technical dive instructors across the UK and associated territories. If you’re planning on going pro with RAID, there's a very good chance you'll be crossing paths with Stuart soon.

Meet Stuart: Deep, Deco, and a Passion for Safety

For those who haven't had the pleasure of diving with him yet, Stuart is a highly accomplished multi-agency Instructor Trainer. He brings a serious depth of knowledge to the team, specializing in the high-skill areas where precision matters most:

• Deep & Deco Diving (Pushing limits safely and methodically)

• Gas Blending (The science behind the perfect mix)

• First Aid Instruction (Because safety is always the foundation)

But beyond the technical acronyms and deep-water skills, it’s Stuart's philosophy on education that makes him a perfect fit for the RAID Examiner team.

"The Best Instructors Never Stop Being Students"

Stuart transitioned into full-time teaching because of a simple, undeniable truth that all passionate divers share: diving is the most rewarding experience on Earth.

When asked about his approach to this new elite role, Stuart shared a philosophy that we think completely embodies the spirit of RAID:

"My mission is to open the underwater world to others safely and passionately. I am a firm believer that the best instructors never stop being students. By constantly expanding my own skills and exploring new techniques, I ensure my teaching remains fresh, insightful, and focused on providing the best possible experience for my divers."

That mindset—never staying stagnant, always pushing for better techniques, and putting diver safety above all else—is exactly why RAID continues to be the fastest-growing diver training agency in the world. We don't believe in just checking boxes; we believe in building confident, highly competent divers.

With Stuart helping to lead the charge at the instructor level, the future of UK diving looks brighter (and safer) than ever.

Please join us in giving a massive congratulations to Stuart Girdler, RAID Examiner!

Are you looking to take the next step in your diving journey, or ready to turn your passion into a career by becoming a RAID Instructor? [Check out our upcoming professional courses here] or drop us a message to get started.