We've lost count of the number of the number of times we've been asked 'How do I become a ski (or snowboard) instructor?'  

It's not easy, but those friendly people at Base Camp Group have kindly offered to demystify it for us...

1. Get a North American (CSIA/PSIA) or New Zealand (NZSIA) qualification
No disrespect to our Commonwealth friends, but this is both the easiest and least useful qualification. Outside of the respective countries, it won't get you employed with a ski school in Europe (except perhaps in Andorra - opinion varies).

2. Get a BASI qualification
After a long political struggle, the British, French, Italian and Austrian governing bodies for skiing and snowboarding recently reached an agreement regarding the free movement of labour. Which now means that BASI (British Association of Snowsport Instructors) qualifications are recognised in Europe.

3. Pass the 'Test Technique'
However, in order to instruct in France, BASI-qualified instructors have to complete a slalom race called the 'test technique' within a certain time. You can then work as a 'stagieres' or trainee, within certain approved training establishments. To get full qualification, at some point you will need to take the recently introduced 'European Speed Test'

QUALIFY AS AN INSTRUCTOR WITH BASE CAMP GROUP IN MERIBEL

Regardless of your ability or experience, the Gap Snowsports Programme run by Base Camp Group in Meribel is designed for those who want to become an instructor in one season.

The Programme’s modular format allows students to prepare for their instructors' qualification while working on other disciplines. The programme offers off-piste, racing and mogul ski modules and freeriding and snowpark snowboarding modules. Each student is able to tailor the programme to suit themselves, enabling them to go as deep or as broad as they want in the disciplines that interest them.

Students have lessons 6 hours a day 5 days a week and are taught by both instructors from Snow-Systems Ski School and BASI. Students benefit from the experience of leading British and French instructors giving them a rounded approach to skiing and snowboarding.

‘Les 3 Vallees’ is the largest ski area in the world and has extensive off-piste. Students benefit from skiing and snowboarding in a variety of snow conditions on a wide range of slopes either during lessons or in their own time (the programme includes a full 7 day a week season ski pass).

Accommodation is situated in the centre of town. Students are within walking distance of the slopes while being able to enjoy the wide range of facilities Meribel has to offer. With 29 bars and 2 nightclubs, the nightlife in Meribel is one of the best in the Alps.

For more information please visit our website, email to contact@basecampgroup.com or call +44 (0)1403 820899

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