Keen skiers and snowboarders from the UK often choose to go on a ski instructor Gap course to become a ski or snowboard instructor. This is a 10-week instructor training course in a ski resort in the Alps to prepare you for the BASI Level 1 and 2 exams. During the Gap course you will have a lot of fun, learn a lot of new skills, improve your off piste technique, make friends from around the world and of course enjoy the après ski and nightlife!
> What will be covered on the BASI instructor Gap course?
Lots of skiing or snowboarding! The trainers are there to improve your personal level to allow you to enjoy the sport more and more. Altitude Futures have top qualified coaches from around the world, who will push you to develop the essential skills to become a better skier or snowboarder and to pass the BASI 1&2 exams. The exams assess your skiing/boarding level in general and your ability to teach and demonstrate the central theme (technical progression from beginner to advanced).
Altitude trainers also use video analysis so that you can see for yourself what improvements you have made and any adjustments that you need to make. Some of the theory behind the BASI system is also covered in evening lectures to ensure a good understanding. The ski and snowboard school also provides the opportunity for shadowing real lessons so that you can see for yourself how to deliver a lesson in a safe and fun manner.
> Is there any chance I can work as an instructor after the course?
Altitude Futures offers 10 guaranteed jobs after the instructor Gap Courses. The school selects the 10 new candidates according to the general performance over the whole course. If you are not selected for a job at Altitude, your BASI level 2 qualification allows you to work in other ski and snowboard schools in Switzerland, Austria and North America in the future.
> What will be included in the Gap instructor course fee?
The Altitude Futures BASI Gap course includes accommodation, food 5 days a week, a season lift pass, over 200 hours of training and your transfer from the airport. Some of the local bars also offer a discount to our trainees. We also guarantee great memories and lifelong friendships.
When choosing a Gap course, please check the following things:
- Is accommodation included? If not, ask for the rates.
- Who are the coaches? What are their qualifications and experience?
- How many hours training will I get?
- Is the ski pass included? If not, ask for the rates.
- Ask if you can talk to previous students
Last, but not least, in addition to the 10 guaranteed jobs during the season, Altitude Futures runs a competition called the ‘King of the Gap Course’. The best Gap course performer of the 2014-2015 season will win CHF 1.000,- spending money and a free pair of freeride skis.
If you would like further information about becoming a ski or snowboard instructor with Altitude then please contact Laura on [email protected].
