How do I get a job as a Ski or Snowboard Instructor?

Firstly you will need to qualify as either a ski or snowboard instructor. Whilst on a Basecamp Instructor Course it's very worthwhile getting to know your instructors because they all have contacts in the industry. Once you have qualified you will need to obtain a reference, either from your course instructor or the Basecamp HQ team. You will then need to start applying at different snowsport schools and be able to supply a reference, certificates, a membership card and teaching license from your qualifying governing body (BASI, CSIA/CASI) and any other necessary documents. If you are looking to work outside of Europe and hold a British passport you will need to obtain the correct VISA, it's worth leaving time to do this as it can sometimes take a while.  

Where can I use my qualifications?

BASI - Level 1 can be used to teach on all artificial and indoor slopes worldwide and provides for an excellent alternative or as an extra to an every day job. Level 2 can be used in resorts around the world. However if you want to teach in France you will need BASI Level 2 and the Test Techinque.

CSIA/CASI - Level 1 can be used in resorts in Canada, USA, UK (snowdomes & dryslopes), Australia, Bulgaria, and Japan. The Level 2 can be used in most countires worldwide excluding France and Italy.

Do I need the Level 2 qualification?

If you take the BASI qualification and are keen to teach in a resort it is vital to get your Level 2 as you can only teach on artificial and indoor slopes with the Level 1. With CSIA/CASI it's slightly more favourable, the Level 1 allows you to teach in resorts, however having the Level 2 is recommended and wouldn't do you any harm.

Why should I obtain a qualification?

Obviously if you are looking to get into teaching skiing or snowboarding, obtaining a BASI or CSIA/CASI qualification is very worthwhile. It's important to understand that by taking a qualification you are being taught to understand how to teach people to ski or snowboard, and it's this understanding that will allow you to improve to a very high level. This simply relates to having a good grasp of what is needed to be able to ride to a high standard.

Even if you do not wish to persue a career in the snowsports industry, it's worthwile getting the Level 1 qualification as it will allow you to understand the basic techniques and teaching theory within your chosen discipline.

I want to dominate the piste, but don’t see myself being an instructor in the long term, is getting Level 1 and 2 worthwhile?

All the training on the Basecamp Instructor Courses is focused towards qualifying as a Level 1 and 2 coach. Both BASI and CSIA/CASI are great qualifications to get and provide for an excellent stepping stone into the industry. However if you don’t see yourself ever working as an instructor our All Mountain Courses may be better suited. We don’t recommend people take the qualifications if you don’t think you’ll use them as they are fairly expensive and with the coaching being focused soley on the qualifications, you don’t receive as much performance coaching.