If you’re passionate about skiing and just can’t get enough of the slopes, becoming a Ski instructor is a great way of earning an income while doing something you love. There are many routes and pathways to becoming a Ski instructor, all require completing levels of training.

See all our ski instructor courses in Canada, with dates and prices.

What Instructor course should I choose?

The Winter Sports Company offer a broad range of courses catering for different requirements and goals. Picking the right program all depends on what level of Skiing you aim to be able to teach, how much time you have, and finances. 

Instructor training courses take place in Canada qualifying you with CSIA levels. CSIA levels are internationally recognised and will allow you to work around the globe. 

A popular option is the 11-week Level 1,2 and 3 Ski Instructor course in Revelstoke, Canada. The course includes the opportunity to gain CSIA levels 1, 2 and 3 which qualifies you to teach a high level of skiing. During the 11 weeks, you’ll be coached by Level 3 and 4 instructors whilst having days off to explore the resort and slopes. Level 3 training is provided if you select the option of an additional weeks of learning.

Another option is the 18-week level 1,2 and 3 Ski instructor course in Sunpeaks, Canada. Having 18 weeks of training offers the flexibility to tailor the course to your needs and what suits you. This is suited to the serious skiers who want to climb the ladder and experience the most amount of Level 3 training in the season. With ample time to include lots of ancillary bolt ons or visit the mighty Revelstoke for some All Mountain Performance training, everything is within your reach in a full season extravaganza. If gaining qualifications is your thing such as Race Coach, Canadian Adaptive Snowsports, Freestyle coach, Park course or bolting on exciting experiences such as Avalanche training, dog sledding Introduction to Backcountry then this is the course for you. Ask about our multi resort season long programmes for all the bells and whistles. info@wintersportscompany.com

If you want your qualifications quickly there is an 8-week fast track level 1 and 2 Ski instructor course in Panorama, Canada. This appeals to many due to it being cost-efficient and individuals not needing a Visa. The intensive course offers over 110 hours of training by some of the best level 4 Ski instructors. Like the other courses, this one also comes with the opportunity to interview for future jobs at the Ski school. 

Bolt-on courses and additional training can be added to any of the Ski instructor courses mentioned above.

What other instructor courses do the Winter Sports Company offer?

Besides skiing and Snowboarding, the Winter Sports Company offers Ski Patrol courses. Having Ski Patrol qualifications enhances employability and looks great on a CV. 

A Ski patrol course includes the vitally important 2 week NUEC A or OFA 3, Advanced Protocols, AVSAR Level 1 or Level 1 Avalanche Skills Training, helicopter orientation, air evacuation, air rescue, rope rescue, advanced protocol training, and much more. If you are looking to specialise further into Backcountry tour guiding, Cat ski or Heliski front or tail guide, Avalanche mitigation and clearance for the railway lines/resorts or remaining closer to home and becoming a Ski Patroller then these modules within the course is a must.

The Wintersports company offers a 9-week Snowpatrol instructor course in Revelstoke Canada which will leave you with highly desirable safety and slope maintenance skills wanted by resort employers around the world. 

How do I get employment and sustain an income from being qualified as a Ski Instructor?

With any Wintersports company Ski instructor or Patrol course is the opportunity to build a snowsport career. With partnerships and connections to several Ski schools across the world, the team can guide and assist you with employment advice once qualified. 

Being a Ski instructor can be a full-time or flexible career, you can work privately, with a team/ Ski School/ for a Resort, or even build your own business. Building up qualifications and levels increases your chances of employment and the income that you can make. 

Ski courses come at a price but view it as an investment! The initial cost can be paid off by the work opportunities that follow. Having Ski instructor qualifications opens many doors for fun and fulfilling jobs and careers.

What qualifications do I need to work as a ski instructor?

Ski schools hire instructors who hold a qualification from a recognised national body. In Canada that is the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance (CSIA). Level 1 qualifies you to teach beginners, and each higher level opens up more advanced lessons and better-paid work.

Can being a ski instructor be a full-time career?

Yes. Many instructors work full seasons with a resort ski school, while others teach privately or go on to run their own business. Teaching winters in both hemispheres, such as Canada and New Zealand, can turn it into year-round work.

How do I get my first ski instructor job?

Most first jobs come from the ski school where you trained or one nearby. Our courses include the chance to interview with the resort ski school, and our team gives employment advice once you qualify. A paid internship goes a step further, with a teaching job for the season once you pass.

What other mountain careers can a ski instructor course lead to?

Many instructors add ski patrol, avalanche safety or race coaching qualifications. Our ski patrol course covers advanced first aid, avalanche skills training and rescue skills, which open doors to patrol, guiding and avalanche work.

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Emma Dyson

Author: Emma Dyson

Often referred to as the Admiral, she is the glue behind the scenes. Keeping the beating heart of the WSC pumping ensuring all operations are covered. With over 2 decades of experience with complex logistics and planning you will be glad that she is on your team. Found between the UK and Canada.

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