I do five dives in the first two days of openwater work with the students. First dive is skin dive that includes skin diving rescue skills and four dives including ALL required skills including rescue. I can, technically, finish everything for openwater work including rescue, etc. in two days of openwater for 8 students no problem. I add 2 more days of diving for more practice and more "independence" for the students but two days are sufficient to do everything according to standards including one skin dive with all skills performed including rescue for skin diving and scuba. It isn't too onerous but the instructor needs to be efficient and on the ball.
