You’ve already been introduced to Wight Dolphins’ female 2026 Ocean Diver student cohort as part of the International Women’s Day celebration blog. So now it’s time to introduce our male OD students to you, alongside some pictures of them being put through their paces at a recent pool session. We asked each of them to share some information about themselves and this is what they told us…..

Shaun Channing

I am 14 years old and have always lived on the Isle of Wight.

I enjoy snorkelling and fishing, which has given me an interest in the ocean. I’d like to take my interest further by joining Wight Dolphins and exploring our seas in more detail, and I am very much looking forward to the adventures ahead. 

William Johnson

I’m 19 and currently at university studying Sports and Exercise Science. I’ve always been really into sport – I play football and golf, and I’m in the gym most days – so I’ve always enjoyed pushing myself and trying new things.

Since moving to the island when I was 10, I’ve spent loads of time in the sea, getting into paddleboarding, surfing and sea swimming, which I’ve loved. I also recently completed my Level 1 Powerboating, which was a great experience and got me even more into being on the water.  Last year, my family went to Greece, and we tried scuba diving for the first time – I honestly loved it. It was such a different experience being underwater and seeing everything up close. So, when I got the chance to learn to scuba dive properly on the island, I was well up for it. It’s something new, exciting, and I know it’s a skill I’ll have for life.

Steve Johnson

I’ve always had a love for the ocean. Since moving to the island 10 years ago, I’ve spent as much time as possible in and around the water, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and simply enjoying everything the sea has to offer by walking the dog on the beach every day. Being by the coast has become a huge part of my life, both personally and professionally.

I work for a local charity where I lead projects focused on Ocean Therapy, using the water as a space to support wellbeing and help combat mental ill health. I’ve seen first-hand the powerful, positive impact the ocean can have on people, how it can calm, restore and build confidence. That connection has only deepened my appreciation for the sea and everything it represents.

Last year, while on holiday, I had the opportunity to try scuba diving for the first time, and I absolutely loved it. It opened a completely new perspective, allowing me to experience the ocean in a way I never had before. Being beneath the surface was both peaceful and fascinating, and it left me wanting to understand more about this hidden world.

Since then, I’ve been motivated to develop my scuba diving skills, not only for the sense of adventure but to expand my knowledge of marine environments. I’m also passionate about environmental issues and would love to get involved in marine conservation, helping to protect the ecosystems I’ve come to value so much.

Mike Montgomery

I’m completing my Ocean Diver course and learning to Scuba for the first time.

I travel all over with my wife, and we always make time to snorkel. After the last few trips, we decided to learn to scuba dive and see even more incredible nature. I’ve got some bucket list creatures and destinations that I can hopefully tick off.

I’d love to be able to see some of the wildlife around the island and am excited to get going when the course is finished. 

So far, I’ve really enjoyed the training, and although it’s been challenging, I’m looking forward to the open water sections.

So, that’s a wrap for now. You’ve been introduced to all of Wight Dolphins 2026 Ocean Diver students.

Good luck to all of you completing the course. We look forward to seeing your progress and updates on where your Ocean Diver training takes you in the world !!