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How to choose your Ski Instructor Course

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator title=”How to choose your Ski Instructor Course?” css_animation=”bounceInDown” el_id=”h1″][vc_single_image image=”7994″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Choosing a ski instructor training programme can be a minefield; nowadays there are so many companies offering packages out there that it can be tricky knowing where to start! Courses are offered across resorts and are competitive in both price and number of training hours, so how do you make your decision?

Over the years we’ve learned what’s important to deliver a great training course that will have students recommending us to their friends, siblings or elsewhere, as well as want to continue to further training within our Altitude Futures programmes.

So, wherever you’re looking to take part in a course, here are a few tips on just what should you be looking out for.

 

A good first impression!

Perhaps a given, but if a company who doesn’t come back to your straight away with answers to all your questions, you’re probably best opting for one who does. Look for a breakdown of everything you need to know in terms of costs, payment deadlines, accommodation options and anything else specific you have in mind.

 

The training

Look out for courses taught by a team of highly qualified, experienced instructors. Most companies will have the credentials of their training team advertised on their website; if not, don’t hesitate to ask. We operate our course by having two primary trainers who will mentor you throughout the course, and other qualified and experienced coaches who may deliver some specific sessions such as off-piste, race or touring days.

 

The qualification

Depending on where in the world you are looking to do your course will probably determine the qualification you end up with, as almost every country has its own qualification system. Make sure you chose a system which is respected and if you are wanting to pursue instructing after the qualification, will allow you to work wherever you would like to. We use the BASI system which is well respected across the globe and once qualified, most schools in Switzerland will accept those from BASI level 2 and up.

 

The accommodation

Where you live can be very important, so check what’s included when you book your course! Most BASI 1 & 2 courses will have a price with half-board accommodation, so make sure you’re comfortable with how many students will be sharing a room, or if there’s an option for having your own room.

[/vc_column_text][vc_message]Remember that if you are hoping to teach, choose a country where you will be able to legally work as a BASI 2. [/vc_message][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

 

Job opportunities

This is a biggy for those looking to take their qualification further and put it into practice when the course is done. Many courses have sprung up as independent companies not affiliated to ski schools, and so when you are qualified you’ll find yourself looking elsewhere for jobs, and competing with those from other ski schools who also run their own courses and will likely prioritise their own students. We recommend choosing a course affiliated to a school where possible to give yourself that invaluable head-start in getting your first instructor positions.

 

Any extras?

At the end of the day, you’re likely not just choosing the course to get that instructor qualification but also improve your own skiing and have fun while doing it. See what other options are available on the side of the course that can help you make the most of the opportunity, such as off-piste or touring days within the training, socials or language lessons to name a few.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_message]Make sure the course looks fun and the people care about you and your progression as a skier and ski instructor! [/vc_message][vc_single_image image=”7432″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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