The first two levels take only a few weeks. Level 3 is a big step up: it takes much more training, a far higher standard of skiing and teaching, and usually several seasons to reach. Level 4 is the highest qualification you can get.
In Switzerland, the top level is the Federal Diploma (Brevet Fédéral). Instructors who also complete the Backcountry Specialist training can get a Risk Authorisation, which means they're allowed to take you off-piste.
What does ISIA mean?
ISIA (the International Ski Instructors Association) sets a standard that's recognised across all these countries. The ISIA Stamp is roughly level 3, and the ISIA Card is the highest national level.
Associations our instructors are qualified with
- Great BritainBASI
- IrelandIASI
- AustraliaAPSI / Snow Australia
- New ZealandNZSIA
- CanadaCSIA
- USAPSIA
- SwitzerlandSwiss Snowsports
- AustriaAustrian state system / ÖSV
- FranceDiplôme d'État
- SwedenSLAO
- NorwayDNS / NIG
- SpainTécnico Deportivo
- Czech RepublicAPUL
- ArgentinaAADIDES
Specialist modules
- AdaptiveTeaching skiers with physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities, using specialist equipment where needed.
- Race CoachCoaching gates, race technique and competitive skiing.
- Terrain Park CoachCoaching jumps, rails and freestyle features in the terrain park.
- TelemarkTeaching free-heel telemark skiing.