In 1994 the College was founded by Daniela Goldstein and Jan Oldenhuizing. Before that time both were already active in the diving industry for several years. Daniela and Jan run all aspects of the College, including the administration, teaching, marketing and all that is needed to feel candidates feel welcome and well looked after. That includes making arrangements (cooking) for lunch will all staff and students.
Jan started diving with the Dutch federation before PADI came to Europe, but was one of the first to make the switch and became a PADI Instructor in 1983. Since then he has advanced his level to finally become a Course Director in 1988. Already during his time as an infantry officer in the Dutch army, Jan invested all his time off in teaching diving, but started full-time involvement in the diving industry in 1989. For several years he had his own dive shop in the Netherlands, but in 1992 he accepted a position as educational manager in the PADI European College. Due to his involvement in diving Jan did not have a lot of time left for university, but he is making up for that now as a student for both environmental sciences and educational sciences.
Daniela started diving with the German federation, but soon made the switch to PADI. She became a PADI Course Director in 1994. Initially she was teaching diving in the lakes around Munich (Germany) but once she became IDC Staff Instructor she joined the team from the PADI European College and was mainly active in training other instructors – she actually did more than 30 IDCs as Staff Instructor before presenting herself to the Course Director Training Course. Daniela is graphic designer and painter. Her art is found in several countries and her skill come in handy for design of brochures, logos and other art. Currently she is a student of Chinese medicine.
Both Daniela and Jan have broad interests, which aids in providing top-level training. For diving theory they can draw on extensive knowledge of physiology, physics, environmental issues, chemistry, commerce, educational sciences and a lot more. A high level of experience in teaching diving and diving instruction, combined with a substantial level of knowledge allow them to lead their instructors in a way that assures that all candidates benefit from the time they spent at the College.
Next to good training, also student comfort has always been an area which was developed in an attempt to reach perfection. You can rest assured that Daniela and Jan will do everything needed to make your stay at the College pleasant and comfortable. Food, drinks, a comforting word, a relaxed ambiance, tranquility and many other things guarantee that you can concentrate completely on your training, without any distractions.
Under the guidance of Daniela & Jan the College has become what it is today - a school completely build on the message contained in its slogan:
Not only certified, but also qualified!