10 Week BASI Level 1 & 2 Ski Instructor Course

Course Type Ski Instructor
Dates 4th Dec-11th Feb | 8th Jan-18th Mar | 19 Feb-29th Apr
Price From £9250
Venue Switzerland - Verbier
Qualifications BASI Level 1 & 2 Ski Instructor
Add Flights? Purchase own flights

About the Trip

10 WEEKS – Verbier, Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Join our BASI 10-week Ski Instructor Course in Verbier and train with experienced BASI level 4 instructors in the Swiss Alps. You’ll spend 10 weeks living in Verbier, the gateway to the 4 Valleys, and enjoy the vast 410km ski area. On this ski instructor course in Switzerland, you will make friends for life and gain invaluable experience from your instructors and examiners. This BASI course includes training, accommodation, meals, exam fees and more.

Ski Level required: Intermediate.

Features

10 weeks level 1 & level 2  BASI training

BASI level 1 exam and membership

Full Season Lift pass sold separately

Accommodation in private chalets.

Meal plan 5 breakfasts & dinners

24hr support in resort

Benefits

3 different start dates; come before or after Christmas.

Massive amount of training to prepare you for a successful Level 2 exam.

Guaranteed interviews for returning clients wanting employment with a Level 2 certificate.

Further bolt-ons available.

Click to see what the fuss is about!

Resort

Verbier is a snow lovers’ playground. Renowned for its December to April snowfall, Verbier sits at 1,500m, with pistes extending up to 3,330m.

The 4 Valleys area provides over 400 km of piste, all on your one ski pass. It’s the perfect place for training and skiing, with runs for all abilities. Famous for hosting freeride competitions, Verbier is the home of legendary off-piste runs, perfect for those wishing to improve their powder skiing and explore off the beaten track.

Chalet Accommodation

Half board, high-quality chalet accommodation. Located within walking distance of the nearest lift, the Verbier chalet has all the amenities you require to make it a home-from-home. In addition, you have the comfort and close proximity of the lifts and resort amenities to make the most of the resort living.

Accommodation is exclusively for the BASI level 1 & 2 courses.

Facilities

  • Breakfast and Evening Meals
  • Close to lifts
  • Lounge & communal area with TV with seating
  • Kitchen & Dining area
  • Ski Storage
  • Laundry Room

Resort Amenities

  • Ski-in ski-out
  • Shops – including a supermarket
  • Bars/Clubs
  • Restaurants
  • Swimming Pool
  • Climbing & Ice Climbing
  • Fitness & Wellness, including Tennis, Squash and Yoga.

Activities: snow-shoeing, ski touring, cross country skiing, dog sledding & more

Optional: If you already have a place in Verbier or want to find your own accommodation, a course-only option is available for £4900.

Breakfast and Dinner

Meal Plan

Breakfast and evening meals are served 5 days per week, typically Monday – Friday. Meals are served in the chalet, with a continental breakfast each day and a cooked breakfast once per week. Dietary requirements are accommodated.

110% Recommend The Winter Sports Company

Such an amazing company! Despite being in the middle of a global pandemic, the Winter Sports Company have done an absolutes fantastic job of organising and supporting my trip to Verbier this winter. Rik, spoke to me a couple times, giving his expertise and opinions on different resorts, from the type of snow, to the general ‘vibe’ of the place. His knowledge, helped me (finally) decide on a Verbier, where I’m sure I’ll have an amazing time. Furthermore, The Winter Sports Company have been so reassuring and easy to work with, given the situation at the moment. I am so pleased I choose them and I can’t wait to get to go to the mountains with them – 100% recommend!!

Emma Murphy – 10 Nov 2020
About the location
Accommodation
Meal Plan
Testimonials

Training Package

Level 1 & 2 Training 

Training averages 30 hours per week. Coaching & shadowing is provided 5 days per week and is run by BASI instructors. You are mentored throughout the course and will receive tailored feedback as you prepare for the level 1 and 2 exams. Training typically runs Monday – Friday. Weekends can be spent freeskiing, resting and enjoying the resort.

BASI Level 1 ski instructor exam

BASI level 1 is included in the price. Level 1 is a 5-day assessment course and qualifies instructors to teach beginners and early intermediate skiers.

A safeguarding children module must be completed before the level 1 exam. This is available through BASI as an online course. It can be done in your own time and costs £25.

BASI Level 2 ski instructor exam

The BASI level 2 ski instructor exam is within the timetable of the course. Level 2 is a 10-day course and qualifies instructors to teach up to and including parallel standards on marked pistes. The level 2 exam takes place in the final 2 weeks of the course.

BASI Membership & Instructor Licence.

As part of your course, we enrol you with BASI. Membership for the year is included. In addition, you will be provided with a login to the BASI website, where you can access online resources. Upon completion of level 1, you will be a licensed instructor.

Shadow Teaching

All participants must complete at least 35 hours of shadowing to complete the Level 2 exam. Ski lesson shadowing & teaching is built into your ski instructor training, help prepare you for exams, and provide observational experience in a mountain environment.

First Aid Course

BASI require all licenced instructors to hold a valid first aid certificate. In addition, first aid and off-piste mountain safety course is included in the price and covers outdoor emergency first aid training.

Visa Assistance & Job Opportunities

Career advice sessions are held during the season. We have partnerships and connections with several sports schools across the world. We can offer guidance to help you find employment as an instructor once you are qualified. Some employment opportunities are available in Europe during peak weeks upon course completion.

We provide comprehensive advice and assistance when applying for working holiday visas.

Snow Ready Fitness Plan

Created for Winter Sports by a personal trainer & instructor, this 8-week pre-season fitness programme targets the muscle groups used in skiing & snowboarding. It will ensure you are snow-fit in time for the start of your course.

Course Schedule
Click to Open

An average of 30 hours of training and coaching per week over a 10-week programme. Training is delivered by BASI pro-instructors, typically Monday- Friday.

This schedule is a guide and may change depending on conditions and the group’s requirements. For those who pass BASI level 2, there is potential for employment as an instructor, subject to an interview.

Please note: BASI Level 1 has an online Safeguarding Children Module. This module must be completed before the course start date.

Week 1

Resort orientation, meet the Altitude Ski School. Introductions to BASI method, team building, assessment of skill and creation of individual action plan. on piste technical ski coaching and 2 day first aid course.

Week 2

First aid course and skiing development, improvement across piste, moguls, steeps and off piste.

Week 3

BASI level 1 instructor exam.

Week 4

Ski the 4 Valleys. Off Piste training and technical development.

Week 5

Practical teaching experience. Ski school shadowing week, learn from our instructors working with clients on the hill.

Week 6

Practical teaching experience continues. Review and delivery of lessons shadowed, teach and technical coaching.

Week 7

Continued development, working on individual goals set by your mentor.

Week 8

Final week of training, teaching and technical preparation before level 2 assessment weeks.

Week 9

BASI Level 2 Ski Instructor Exam.

Week 10

BASI Level 2 Ski Instructor Exam and end of season celebrations.

"Winter Sports made us feel like our ski break had already started!"

Alistair - 10 Nov 2020

"Trying to book a Gap Year ski course during lockdown wasn't an easy challenge but Rik Dyson at Winter Sports has been amazing. He offered us great support and guidance when choosing my son's 10 week ski course. Sadly, we couldn't book the trip he wanted in Canada as Covid had closed the borders but Rik found us a BASI and Off-Piste course in Verbier which is coming up in 2 months and my son is so excited!. We never would have found it without his help. Rik has been informative, very friendly and easy-going in his advice and has made us feel really welcome which I'm sure is the Winter Sports ethos - thanks so much for your time and care".

Monster Cat X

Cat skiing is a form of backcountry exploration, taking you away from the borders of controlled ski areas to ride through untouched powder. Take a ride to the top of The Taynton Bowl at Panorama Mountain Resort.

Sled Mobile

Enhance your CV and give the resort director another reason to hire you. Opportunity to gain your BCSF smart sledding course certificate and use it for future employment, or just enjoy a great day out on the neighbouring mountain getting to grips with your sled and enjoying aBBQ lunch up on the mountain lodge.

Nordic Skiing

The silence of the wilderness and the almost spiritual experience of gliding through a winter world leaving nothing but tracks in the snow is an irresistible combination.

CSIA Park Level 1

The CSIA Park level is a 3 x day-long course that covers the teaching and technical aspects of switch skiing, snow-park awareness, boxes/rails and air. You will learn the teaching principles and safety needed for instructing in the park. You will learn development strategies and teaching approaches, how to navigate students in the park, communicate clearly, and spot hazards in the park. In the end, you will be assessed, and you must be able to show clear park demonstrations and teaching abilities. CSIA SnowPro

Tree Wells & All Mountain Safety

An absolutely serious must-do, one-day course for all skiers and snowboarders who venture off the groomed runs. In our opinion, everyone should do this course; they are some of the closest dangers and yet the most overlooked. Learn about how tree wells form and safe riding through the trees.  What action to take if you fall into a tree well, and how to rescue someone. Additionally, this course will introduce you to often overlooked hazards that one may encounter, such as cold exposure injuries, variable snow conditions and more.

Intro to Backcountry Skills

During this 2-day course, you will spend time doing both on & off-piste technical training. You will develop a strong understanding of advanced technical concepts and learn about tactics and tools for developing off-piste skiing/riding skills in various environments. You will ski steep terrain, deep snow, glades, un-groomed conditions, bumps, and low visibility, to help gain knowledge in terrain adaptation and awareness in a changing mountain environment. Over the course, you will become familiar with your equipment and will be assessed in terrain analysis, hazard analysis, and trip planning to ensure safety when skiing the backcountry. Equipment (powder skis, skins, snowshoes, split board) are not included. You must have also completed the AST 1 & Companion rescue to take part in this.

Entry Level Race Coach

ACA-CSC coach education program links directly with Alpine Canada's Long Term Athlete Development stages of growth and skill development. At each program level, coaches acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the athlete's growth and skill development needs. During the course, you will learn how to reduce the risk of accidents and how to coach ski racers. This course promotes continuous improvement and life-long learning for coaches and coaching excellence at every level in the Canadian development system. Race Coaching ACA-CSC.

NUEC I (Level 2)- Emergency Response First Aid

The two or four-day first aid course will provide the necessary training for those working in remote areas giving them the knowledge and skills to evaluate medical emergencies, decide the best course of action and triage, treat and evacuate the patient. Perfect for those working as instructors, guides, safety patrollers, and forestry. Topics will include but are not limited to life-limb-threatening injuries, CPR, survival skills, critical decision-making, stretcher use and other common scenarios experienced in these industries. Great to have on your CV and a fantastic introductory skill set for becoming a ski patroller or backcountry guide aiming for their NUEC Level 3.

Dog Sledding

The resort and nearby terrains offer an exhilarating dog sled adventure. You will meet the team and learn everything you need to know about dog sledding tours in Canada before heading out for a thrilling experience across beautiful landscapes. All sleds are guided, and the tour allows 30 to 40 minutes of sled time through majestic lodgepole pine trees. In return, you will get to thank the dogs by giving them lots of cuddles and snacks.

Paragliding

We offer a serene experience; you'll get to experience Panorama from a completely different perspective. You can take off from 2 different spots (depending on the weather conditions). Summit takeoff gives you an 1110 m or 3650 ft flight height difference, and Champagne Express takeoff is 770 m or 2560 ft flight height difference. You will then land at the bottom of Little Dipper, where your pilot will teach you how to roll the Parachute back up safely. They also provide a camera you can hold to film your adventure, so bring a storage chip to put in it!

Sled Mobile

With over 32,000 acres of terrain, experience the exhilarating feeling of driving a sled mobile. Make your cv shine & take your BCSF certification online prior to taking the experience if you want to gain a certificate. Practice handling your new sled in the snow field, then you head up to the Silver mining town remnants at 8000ft up at the top of the mountain, stunning views of Panorama, old-growth forests, spectacular icefalls and lots of free time blasting around the open bowl with your friends. Fuel up with a mountain-size lunch in the cosy cabin and then head down back to base.

Banff Blow Off

It's not Ibiza, admittedly, but it's a great vibe and the best that the infamous Banff can offer. One night and two days on the slopes of the big mountains surrounding the iconic Banff town. Includes accommodation, transport, and lift passes. Relax and take some time out from Panorama, do some shopping, and get up on the big mountain of Sunshine, Lake Louise or Norquay. Then put your party face on and have a big night out with your mates before calling it a day and heading back to HQ. This either happens after your exams or at the end of your winter season.  

Ice Skating the Worlds Longest Trail

Enjoy a skate with your pals on the Biggest Lake trail in the World, according to the Guinness Book of Records! Armed with a bbq, burgers, beers,  tunes, hockey sticks and a bunch of your friends. A great day out just cruising around doing something different for the day, or for those wanting a more physical challenge, then why don't you attempt the full 35km skate ring around the lake?

Ice Hockey Match

Watching ice hockey is a must for anyone spending significant time in Canada. As the national sport, you'll be hard-pressed to avoid it. It is on screens in bars and restaurants everywhere you turn! So, as a group, we will take a bus trip down to watch the game and get a bite to eat. It will be a fun night out that you won't want to miss! This is organized in the resort, and if you are in Panorama or Revelstoke, it's a weekly event. If you are at Sun Peaks, it's a once or twice a season event. Check out a previous Ice Hockey trip. 

Heli Ski Trip

Heli-skiing is, quite simply put, the ultimate off-piste experience - perfect for freeskiers/riders, thrill-seekers and powder lovers. The adrenaline rush as you board the helicopter is nothing compared to the breathtaking views as you fly over the mountains. 3-5 runs into pristine powder fields. It's enough to put a grin on your face for months. Ultimate bragging rights. Make sure you take a Go-pro or pay for extra footage. Equipment is included, but make sure you have insurance to cover you. Extra insurance can be arranged. Sun Peaks clients must do the Revelstoke trip to do this.

First Tracks & Best Bits

You could spend all season in the resort and still miss these little gems. Your guide for the day knows every nook and cranny of the mountain. This is a non-training day, but by the end of it, you will know all the local knowledge on every section of the mountain. Knowing which slopes are best in certain conditions. Knowing what the local dangers or difficulties are in each area of the mountain. Finding the best runs through the trees. It's best done early in your programme so that you can get the most out of your time in the resort armed with a new sense of your surroundings. There is no better way to start the day than as VIPs and being the first ones up the lift for some First Tracks.

Ski & Board Tech Tips

Learn how to get the most out of your equipment from the pros. An evening in the workshop. Makes a great present for someone and gives them the knowledge on how to look after their equipment, tune it for the conditions and cover the overall safety aspects of your settings.

Steep n Deep at Revelstoke

Please take a peek at one of the world-class resorts in our books. Revelstoke is a monster of a resort and a pilgrimage everyone must make in their lifetime. It has the highest vertical in Canada and is consistently voted in the top #3 as the best resort in Canada. A must-see alternative for all those wanting to experience industrial amounts of snow, steep exciting terrain and incredible backcountry terrain. It's hard not to fall in love with the place; we will think you'll agree. It is a great place to spend with your feet up and relax on those days off, with grand entertainment areas, comfortable bedrooms, spacious bathrooms, a jacuzzi on the balcony, log fireplaces and plenty of storage. Choose between the lodge or the hostel. Either way, it's a real once-in-a-lifetime venue. Includes accommodation for three nights, three days. Transport to and from Revelstoke & Lift passes for three days of some unforgettable skiing/riding.  

Off-Piste Tactical Training

This course offers a blend of coaching geared towards boosting your technique off-piste, allowing you to charge through the conditions and terrain confidently. It includes a basic understanding of the terrain's pitfalls and how to choose a successful track, taking into account the local dangers. You will also understand how to alter your stance and commitment when carving a path off the beaten track. We try to run this on a powder day but cannot guarantee this. This often books up early.

CASI Park Level 1

In this 2 days long park course, you will explore snowboarding techniques and teaching methods, as they relate to introductory terrain park. Allowing you to gain an understanding of basic freestyle techniques, as well as lesson planning and effective communication skills. During the course, you will receive coaching, feedback and strategies for long-term development.  Course candidates will be assessed and updated daily on their performance and progress and by the end of the course, you will have the skills necessary to safely introduce students to the terrain park and freestyle snowboarding. CASI Park  

Canadian Adaptive Snowsports

This certifies instructors to teach skiers and snowboarders with disabilities personal ski/snowboard improvement. You will develop skills to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to experience adaptive snow sports safely. You will learn how to use teaching aids, adaptive equipment and carry out basic safety procedures. Depending on which resort you go to, this will increase your hourly wage at your next chance of employment as you will be considered a Dual Instructor. The most affordable and effective course to enhance your pay rate. Canadian Adaptive Snowsports Level 1

AST Level 1: Avalanche Skills Training & Companion Rescue

Do you enjoy backcountry skiing or heading off-piste? If so, AST level 1 & Companion Rescue are a must! During the course, you'll learn to recognise avalanche terrain, understand the avalanche forecast, plan your trips, and perform a companion rescue with a variety of search and rescue techniques with single or multiple casualties. Understanding the landscape, especially as a backcountry skier, is essential to support yourself when skiing, to stay safe, and to avoid danger. Three days of vital learning to understand how to be a valued member of your group when things go wrong. Check out our AST page to find out more.

Bolt on courses

WHAT ARE THE VERBIER BOLT ONS?

Because it’s not just about becoming an instructor! Add on something extra, whether another qualification or simply something for fun or on your bucket list. You’ll be able to sign up for your bolt on’s well in advance before you depart and will be sent a link to all the available courses for your stay. There’s something for everyone and everybody’s budget. If you want to look a little more in-depth, then look at our dedicated Bolt On page.

French or German lessons

As well as becoming a more rounded skier/ boarder on this course, you may also want to impress the locals with your language skills

Off piste touring

Go beyond piste barriers and explore everything the resort offers with a ski tour.

Snowshoeing

Exploring or exercise?  Snowshoeing is the way to do it.

Paragliding

See the resort from a hawks perspective with the tandem paraglide.

Yoga or Pilates

Keep yourself in great skiing condition with our yoga and pilate classes

Lessons for your other discipline

Add to your rosta of skill with lessons in a different discipline. Snowboard, Telemark etc.

What's included

WSC 10 Week BASI Training Package

This 10-week course includes a training program designed by Level 4 instructors and evaluators. It includes 20 hours of training per week given by experienced Level 3 & 4 instructors.

Ski School Shadowing

Ski School shadowing is introduced as you progress through the course.

Season Lift Pass

A Season long lift pass means if you want to come out early, or extend your stay then your lift pass will be valid. You also get extra discounts around the resort and reciprocal deals at other resorts.

 

Resort Rep

Sometimes overlooked but one of the most critical parts of your stay. Reps are knowledgeable and experienced skiers and boarders, often having completed their instructor tickets previously. They support you all the way, ensuring everything runs smoothly in the resort.

BASI Level 1 Exam and Membership

The level 1 & 2 course exam and membership is included in the price.

Video Analysis

Well it is the digital age! Instructors will utilse all the equipment available.

Accommodation for your Entire Stay

Staying at the resort, you’ll have everything you need. Ski in/out, and centrally located in the resort. It’s the perfect location for an instructor course.

Transfers

Transfers are included with your package when taking a flight with us. If you choose to arrive separately a free transfer is still available, as long as you are at the airport at the same time as the main arrival group. For transfers outside of this there may be a supplement charge.

Meal Package

5 Breakfasts and dinners are provided every week of your stay.

Regular Team Socials

Verbier Social text required

Employment Interviews & Job Opportunities

On Successful completion of your Level 2, should you wish to return to Verbier as an instructor then a guaranteed interview can be arranged.
We can also arrange further interviews at other resorts in Europe, Canada and the World, to help you find your first job in the industry

Visa Assistance

We provide comprehensive advice and assistance when applying for working holiday visas.

Video analysis

Within your training sessions you will receive video analysis on and off snow.

Welcome Gift Bag

A goody bag with clothing and gear to make you feel part of the team, and provide you with some extras to help with your stay.

Not Included.

FLIGHTS (add flights for an extra circa £35 one way)
MEALS outside of the Meal Plan (4 breakfasts and dinners)
INSURANCE
ANCILLARY BOLT ON COURSES
EQUIPMENT OR RENTAL

Dates & Prices

Dates Accommodation Prices

5th Dec to 10th Feb

Chalet Accommodation

£9250

Book Your Course Today

Hold My Place
Lorem ipsum

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Duis dapibus rutrum vulputate. Mauris sed eros nec est vehicula mattis ac vitae ligula. Maecenas vitae tristique sapien, vitae pellentesque lectus.

Home
Why choose us

Get a free one hour consultation

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Duis dapibus rutrum vulputate. Mauris sed eros nec est vehicula mattis ac vitae ligula. Maecenas vitae tristique sapien, vitae pellentesque lectus.

Sample Page