In this guide
- What it is: The International Surfing Association's (ISA) award for teaching beginner and early intermediate surfers.
- What you need first: The ISA Introduction to Surf Instructing e-learning course, which has no prerequisites.
- What you'll learn: Safety, kit for beginners, coaching methods, skill development and planning.
- How long it takes: About 8 to 10 hours online, then the Level 1 course, then 20 logged practical hours.
- Cost: The ISA lists the e-learning course at $100 (checked October 2026). The full Level 1 course usually runs £160 to £400.
- What's next: In England, Surf Instructor: Recreation through Recognised Prior Learning, then Surf Coach: Progression.
The ISA is the world governing body for surfing, recognised by the IOC. Scottish Surfing runs its courses, and Surfing England recognises its Level 1.
What you need to qualify
- Finish the ISA e-learning course.
- Take part in the Surf Level 1 course with an ISA Course Presenter.
- Show a basic level of surfing: go left and right on green waves and exit a wave with control.
- Complete 20 practical hours, logged and supervised by an ISA Instructor.
- Get a valid lifesaving or surf rescue award.
- Sign the ISA Coach's Code of Conduct.
Where you'll find it in the UK
- Scotland: Scottish Surfing runs ISA Level 1 courses. In 2026 they're at no cost to members of Scottish Surfing affiliated surf clubs.
- Wales: the Welsh Surfing Federation is the governing body for surfing in Wales.
- England: Surfing England recognises ISA Level 1 through Recognised Prior Learning. You get its Surf Instructor: Recreation award (SE1). It also says that from 2028 it can no longer accept international and foreign surf coach certificates.
Source: ISA Courses, International Surfing Association; Scottish Surfing ISA courses, Scottish Surfing; Membership, Welsh Surfing Federation; Coaching Hub and National Coach Register, Surfing England; Rip currents, RNLI, checked October 2026.
Governing body: Surfing England. It sets the safety standards and training awards for surfing in England, so it's the official place to find out more.
Typical prices, checked October 2026. The club or coach sets and bills the price.
The club map lists some of the UK clubs for this sport. It is a starting point, so check with the club before you travel. To have a coach found for you, use the enquiry form.
