FAQs and Jobs

What instructor courses are available and what do they cost?

view the list of available courses

What is the success rate?

• 95% at level 1
• 80% at level 2

What qualifications canI get?

• CSIA
• CASI – instructor level 1 (level 2 optional)
• NZSIA
• SBINZ – (Certificate in Snowsports Instruction & Stage 1)
• BASI
  • Ski/Snowboard Instructor Level 1 and 2
  • ISIA Teach and Technical
  • Freestyle coach (optional)
• Anwarter
• ILM – level 3 certificate in team leading (not all courses)
• Snowmobile introduction(Canada only)

And coaching in:

• Ski tuning
• Racing
• Freestyle
• Back country
• Off piste/chutes/steeps
• Moguls

Where are the qualifications recognised?

All qualifications are recognised internationally, aside from the Anwarter, which is specific to working in Austria.

In some countries it is easier to find work in than others. Peak Leaders trainees go onto find work in Canada, USA and Europe, New Zealand Australia and Japan. Some Peak Leaders are head hunted from courses in the southern hemisphere straight into jobs in the northern hemisphere.

JOBS AS AN INSTRUCTOR

Many people come on a ski or snowboard instructor course and then want to find work as an instructor for the following winter season. We have an excellent network of Snowsport School contacts across the globe. During our courses, the Course Leader will help you at every stage to put you in the best possible position for employment. Some of our courses even include jobs after the course. Check out our St. Anton course for this! It’s got guaranteed jobs for the whole season available, including accommodation.

Remember though, it’s possible to gain work after most of our courses, but you’ve got to be the right person for the job. Like any career, you’re only going to be employable if you have the qualifications and right attitude for the job.

What standard do I need to be before starting?

Ideally you should be intermediate or better. Although some athletic trainees have not quite been up to this standard they reached Canadian level 1 in 9 weeks. By intermediate we mean, able to link turns down an intermediate slope and not to too fazed on black. Normally it’s a minimum of 6+ weeks on snow.

To actually see the standard we expect from our trainees you can view it in this short video

Do I need a visa?

Visitors visas are issued automatically to Peak Leaders trainees on entry to the country where their courses are running.

Work visas are separate and are required for employment. Just ask us about working holiday visas, and we’ll be happy to help you out with this.

Is there an age limit?

Normally, we ask you to be 18 or older. If you’re under 18, it’s not usually an issue – we need confirmation from a parent or guardian that you are able to join a course. Again, just speak to us and we’ll answer any questions you may have.

What is the Skiing like in South America?

Awesome! You get massive precipitation off the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans leading to frequent dumps of snow. The scenery with lakes, volcanoes, forest and circling giant condors set against the backdrop of the Andes, is epic. There are plenty of off piste opportunities on Cerro Catedral and on the trip to Esquel.

Do I need to bring my own kit?

Yes. Ideally, you should come with all your gear, although it is possible to buy equipment in country. We have some great discounts available with our partners. Most of the time, it’s cheaper to buy all your equipment before you head off.

How much money will I need to bring?

We recommend about £120 per week.

What is the food like?

Excellent. Look at each course for exact provision but on all courses we offer at least 5 good evening meals. Vegetarian preferences available.

What if I have special dietary requirements?

All reasonable dietary requirements are met – just let us know and we’ll arrange for you.

What is the night life like?

There are plenty of opportunities to party. In every resort there is a vibrant and diverse night life. We’ve hand picked the resorts to make sure that the snow and the apres ski is awesome!