One of the main concerns is the perceived quality of the qualification that you are training for and in which countries you will be entitled to ply your trade. For example, in Canada, skiers work towards the ski instructor exams of the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance (CSIA), and snowboarders work towards the Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors (CASI). In New Zealand, skiers are trained to obtain the ski instructor qualifications of the New Zealand Ski Instructors’ Alliance (NZSIA). In France, most will go for the qualifications of the British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) and in the USA, skiers become members of the PSIA (Professional Ski Instructors of America).
Still at a loss? The differences between the exams of the different ski instructor bodies are quite pronounced but at a very micro-level and not worthy of your attention. What is more important and what is asked of us very regularly is:
Can I work with my Level 1 qualification?
Yes. With all level 1 instructor qualifications (except BASI level 1), you can teach skiing in a few countries throughout the world. With your NZ Level 1 qualification you can also work in New Zealand. The BASI level 1 only allows you to teach indoors within the UK and only after you have shadowed an instructor or for 35 hours. The BASI level 2 requires you to shadow for 75 hours before you can teach. The Canadian qualifications appear to be far more user friendly. As a Level 1 instructor you can teach "All Mountain" straight away.
Where can I work with my Level 2 qualifications?
Armed with your Level 2 instructor qualifications from PSIA, CSIA, CASI, NZSIA or BASI, you are entitled to work in many different countries throughout the world including Andorra, Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, Italy, New Zealan, Japan, Scotland, Spain and the USA. According to Steve La Borde CSIA and CSCF instructor and course director of The Winter Sports Company “From my experience, the Canadian qualifications are very well respected throughout the world - this includes all levels but especially from level 2 and upwards. We have clients who work all over the world both in the Northern and Southern hemispheres”.
In practice, the Level 2 instructor qualifications of all the bodies are well recognised. Graduates of ski instructor courses who have obtained their Level 2 qualification, and who have the required working visa, have a pretty open door to walk through and can go on to work in Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, New Zealand, Spain, Switzerland, UK and the USA.
France on the other hand is a different ball game. Working for the ESF can be difficult but it is possible with a high enough qualification. There are companies who operate ski/snb schools in France who will employ you as an instructor providing you are qualified enough. You can on the other hand work as a guide in France. There are many companies who will be delighted with your qualifications and services, and as a guide the rewards can be just a good, if not better in some cases.
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