Level 3 Ski Instructor Internship with Guaranteed Job

Course Type Ski Instructor Internship
Dates 29th Nov-1st April
Price From £4700
Venue Canada - Sun Peaks
Qualifications CSIA Level 3 Instructor Certification
Add Flights? Add flights for £700

About the Course

Give yourself the greatest chance of achieving your level 3 by participating in a level 3 ski instructor internship in Canada.
You’ll have a guaranteed ski instructor job and pre-arranged staff accommodation at one of the most incredible resorts in North America, Sun Peaks.

With over 4250 acres of skiable area and a top-level snow school, Sun Peaks has terrain and CSIA level 4 coaches perfect for reaching CSIA level 3. It’s not only a great way to guarantee your progression but also a great way to guarantee your accommodation in a competitive environment.

Our CSIA level 3 ski instructor internship is a full-season programme designed for ski instructors already qualified to level 2 in a CSIA-recognised body. Places are minimal, so early application is recommended. Successful applicants will become members of the full-time snow sports team at Sun Peaks in December.

You will initially fly out with the leading group and have some time to acclimatise before moving into staff accommodation and starting work. Interns are mentored all season with regular sessions at ski school. Level 3 training is taken by CSIA level 3 course examiners, and there is still the option to work on weekends.

CSIA Level 3 Ski Instructor training is delivered by the snow school at Sun Peaks Resort, Canada. Sun Peaks has over 100 working instructors, many of whom are level 3 & 4. You’ll have many opportunities during the internship to shadow their lessons and teaching practices. You’ll receive over 90 hours of Level 3 Winter Sports training in total and over 30 hrs of CSIA separate modular training.

The training is provided in blocks, so you progress throughout the season, with some of the training scheduled in March as you move towards the exams. Having three months of work, mentoring, and a comprehensive training programme, this internship puts you in the best possible position for passing CSIA level 3.

To be eligible for this internship, you must have the right to work in Canada or be able to get your working visa. Between 18 and 30, you can apply for a holiday working visa. A visa specialist is available to assist with work permit applications.

It’s always tricky to decide between a Ski Internship and a Ski Instructor Course. So we’ve put together some helpful information on our Blog that looks at the pros & cons and what’s involved with that guaranteed job.

Features

Level 3 WSC training with CSIA modules & exams.

Guaranteed Accommodation

Guaranteed job as a Ski Instructor

Level 3 training included.

 

Benefits

7 Day per week visa assistance  with our in-house visa expert.

Guidance from start to finish with insurance, certification, equipment, banking, communication & clothing.

Guaranteed positions BEFORE you have your visa secured.

Full season to do all the bolt-ons you want.

Click to see what the fuss is about!

Slopeside Accommodation

Accommodation is included with your internship during the initial training phase whilst you settle in. We use centrally located hotels and apartments which are ski-in/out. They are an ideal base for training during the internship and have everything you need to make it a home-from-home.

Accommodation is based on 2-3 sharing, but single rooms are available on request for a supplement.

Staff Accommodation

Staff housing is pre-arranged before the start of the internship. Staff lodgings are in high demand in ski resorts and have a long waiting list. As part of your internship, you are at the top of the list and have guaranteed staff housing lined up before the start of the season. Staff accommodation is payable by the intern, usually on a bi-weekly basis once in the resort. In each resort, the options vary, but all provide you with a shared house or apartment with your fellow instructors.

Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks Resort

One of the largest ski areas in Canada – second to only Whistler Blackcomb – Sun Peaks is a ski-in ski-out resort nestled in the Kootenay mountains. It is considered Whistler’s beautiful sister, yet it doesn’t suffer from the same crowding issues. It’s big enough to party but small enough to get to know the locals – as an intern at Sun Peaks.

Your workmates will become your second family. Sun Peaks is a great place to spend your first season. Most of our interns return to work here year after year.

Interns at Sun Peaks typically earn around $18-20 per hour and average approximately 20 hours of work per week – enough to cover rent and food. Anything leftover is a bonus. Sun Peaks staff accommodation is a 20-minute walk (or a short free bus ride) from the town centre and the main ski area. Most ski school staff are housed here, making for a great atmosphere.

It has a bustling centre with bars, shops, restaurants, a convenience store, and plenty of things to do – like ice skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiles and dog sled tours, to name a few. The winter community is large at Sun Peaks. With thousands of seasonal visitors, the shuttles to the local city of Kamloops are easy to find for cinema trips, shopping, and ice hockey games.  

Meal Plan
During your initial training, you’ll receive four dinners and breakfasts per week, leaving time to concentrate on skiing.  You’ll get many options at each resort to keep you full and satisfied. Our accommodation all have kitchenettes as a minimum. This means for lunch or during the rest of the week, you can quickly cook for yourself.

Once qualified and in staff accommodation, you are then self-catered in your accommodation. All staff accommodation has kitchens and everything you need. You should have enough money on your staff wage to cover your accommodation and food costs and hopefully a little spare for the fun things.

On average, you can spend between 80-120$ per week, and you’ll be eating very well, assuming you’re cooking most of your own meals but with the odd cheeky beer out. You can also do it cheaply and live off pasta and pesto or blow up your budget eating out. You’ll soon learn what’s the right balance and how much you want to save for other things over the season.

WSC Internship

We reserve your place on our internship from the moment you book. With all our internships you have a guaranteed job placement once you have completed a successful interview with ourselves and finally the ski school.

We are careful to select only the right candidates for the position and should your chosen ski school feel you’re not quite the right fit, then we work to offer you another placement or refund your money.

Once working for the ski school you will earn between 18-20$ per hour. Both Panorama and Sun Peaks Resorts aim to give you a minimum of 20 hrs work per week averaged over the season with some weeks being busier and some a little slower. It’s enough to cover both rent and food.

At Hidden Valley, which is owned by the Canadian government you will earn as much as 18-20$ per hour, it’s one of the best pays in the industry for a Level 1 instructor. Interns can look to work a minimum of 24hrs per week, often with options to work more. This means at Hidden Valley you definitely save up the money over the season that can be put towards travelling in the summer.

Accommodation
The Resort
Meals
Guaranteed Job

Training Package

 

Guaranteed Job

Upon completing the level 1 exam, you will enrol with the Sports School and begin working for the rest of the season. Working as a ski instructor, you will receive a full uniform, a staff season pass, a place in staff accommodation, and other benefits such as discounts across the resort as well as discounts and reciprocal lift passes at partner resorts in Canada (varies for each resort).

Level 3 Training

You’ll receive over 90 hours of Level 3 Winter Sports training and over 30 hours of CSIA separate modular training. The training is provided in blocks so that you will progress throughout the whole season.

CSIA Level 3 Modules

The advanced teaching module and CSIA level 3 training are included in the course price.

CSIA Level 3 Exam

The level 3 exam is included in the price of the internship.

Further Training

Panorama interns receive 8 days of dedicated level 2 training throughout the season from the WSC. In addition, sun Peaks and Hidden Valley students receive 5 extra days from WSC. You also have the opportunity to join dedicated training sessions on some mornings with the sports schools.

CSIA Membership & Instructor Licence

As part of your course, we enrol you with the CSIA. Membership for the year is included, and you will be provided with a login to the CSIA website, where you

can sign up for other exams. Upon completion of level 1 you will be a licenced instructor.

Shadow Teaching

Shadowing real lessons is an integral part of training to be an instructor and helps prepare trainees for exams. Working closely with the sports school,

participants can use free-ski days during training and once working on shadowing instructors.

Additional Training Option

Further certifications are available during the internship. Additional courses vary depending on the resort and include Avalanche Skills Training and Adaptive Ski.

Instructor Qualification, Race Coaching certification and Park course.

Visa Assistance & Guaranteed Work Interview

We have partnerships and connections with several sports schools across the world and offer a guaranteed interview with Panorama for the following season after the successful completion of your Level 2. We also provide two further guaranteed interviews at resorts in Canada and Japan. In addition, comprehensive advice and assistance are given to all Winter Sports clients 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 and will make sure you are snow-fit in time for the start of your course.

 

Weekly Schedule
Click to Open

Professional coaching is provided 4-5 days a week, typically Monday – Friday.

Securing a Visa: Comprehensive visa application advice & support from a Working Holiday Visa specialist
Before you depart: We put you in touch with the resort to get your official job offer & accommodation in place before you travel.
This schedule is a guide and may change. Full support and guidance are provided during immigration and setting up documentation to work in Canada. Training is provided by experienced level 3 & 4 CSIA instructors who work closely with each individual and tailor the programme to the group. Video analysis is provided throughout the course.

Week 1

During week one, you will settle into your new home for the season, discovering the resort and where you will be living, working and socialising. You will go on a resort tour, be enrolled on snow school, move into staff housing, activate your work permit & Social Insurance Number, and set up a bank account.

December - Feburary

Work for the ski school, teaching various lessons in an all-mountain environment—self-development through mentor relationships, peer-to-peer improvement and attending staff training.

Mid January - March

CSIA Level 3 Exam

The level 3 exam is included in the price of the internship.
Start of Training throughout the season. Training is provided in blocks, so you have time to go away and practise and build on your experience.
Throughout the training, you will improve your technique on and off-piste. Throughout the training period, you will work on your mogul skiing, teaching, Short radius turns, advanced parallel movement, and everything you need to know to pass your CSIA level 3. You will be constantly assessed within the training with feedback and video analysis to help you improve.

Final weeks

You will take part in the CSIA Level 3 course Exam Modules. It is a 5-day pre-requisite course conducted by CSIA Level 3 course examiner. Your CSIA Level 3 exam will then follow this. It may seem daunting; however, all the hard work you put into training has set you up for this, so just enjoy it. Then finally, everyone will celebrate your fantastic achievement and say goodbyes when heading back home.

"BEST TIME EVER IN CANADA"

George Smith - 28 Aug 2020

"The only thing I can say about the WSC is that going to Canada was the best choice I made in my life so far! "

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.

Find Out More

What to Expect?

Let’s run through how the internship works, from applying to training to working for a ski resort. We’ll be there every step of the way.

Read More

A Day in the Life of a Ski Instructor

Thinking about becoming a ski instructor – this will help you make up your mind. Think first tracks, après and 24/7 mountain views.

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Is it Worth it?

But you’re still unsure if a career as an instructor it’s worth it…

Read More

Do I Need a Visa to Work in Canada?

If you fancy an internship, you will need to apply for a working holiday visa – here’s our guide…

Read More

Mastering Moguls

A key skill for a wannabe Level 3 certified ski instructor – a guide to moguls so you can master the mountain.

Read More

What is included

Sun Peaks Skiing

It gets the same weather systems as Whistler. Yet as these systems move inland, it gets drier and colder and inevitably dumps on Sun Peaks. Giving plenty of powder days across 3 Mountains, 4200ac of skiable terrain, but without the crowds, and as the name suggests, plenty of Bluebird days. With one of the largest terrain parks in western BC, you can’t help but feel it’s a giant fun park for everyone.

Flights

For maximum flexibility, internships can be booked with or without flights.
Flights typically depart from London, UK. Flights from alternative airports can be arranged. Please contact us for a quote for this service.

Transfers

Outbound and return transfers are included from Calgary or Kamloops Airport as standard with all bookings, subject to arrival times if you book your flights.

Season Lift Pass

Your lift pass is season long. This means if you decide to add additional weeks, your lift pass will be valid.
Lift pass benefits include discounts up to 20% in selected shops and restaurants and on some activities, equipment rentals, maintenance and repairs.

Staff Accommodation

Upon completion of level 1, interns move into staff accommodation. Placement in staff accommodation is arranged before the course start date. Staff accommodation is paid for by the intern on a bi-weekly basis once working for the sports school.

Meal Plan

During your Level 1 training, your meal plan will include four breakfasts and dinners per week. Once you move into staff accommodation, you will be paying for your food.

Resort Representative

A rep is in the resort to oversee the course. Reps are knowledgeable about the resort, qualifications and training and have often taken part in the course previously.

Training Package

Includes 20 hours of training per week by Level 3 & 4 instructors, some are straight from the CSIA “Hall of Fame”!

CSIA Level 3 Ski Instructor Exam

The exam price is included within the whole course. Your training and hard work will set you up ready for the exam.

CSIA Membership

Regular Members enjoy a wide variety of Member Benefits, including Pro Deals, General Liability Insurance, Accident, Death and Disability coverage.

Cat Skiing

Cat skiing is a mechanical 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 with the Monster X Cat.

Weekly Socials

From Pool comp night, Campfire socials, or Ice skating on the largest Ice skating trail in the World to the often hilarious and infamous Music Bingo night at the local watering hole before busting shapes on the dance floor, there’s always something going on in or around the resort. Between these and the Bolt-Ons, you will have experiences to remember with new lifelong friends for the rest of your life.

Not Included

FLIGHTS (add flights for an extra £650)
MEALS outside of the Meal Plan (4 breakfasts and dinners)
INSURANCE
ANCILLARY BOLT ON COURSES
EQUIPMENT OR RENTAL
HELI SKIING (Add Heli Skiing for an extra £600)
BACKCOUNTRY (3-14 day Backcountry experiences are also a possibility at the end of this course.)

Dates & Prices

Dates Accommodation Double Room Single Room Flights

29th Nov – 1st April

Cahility Lodge

£4700

+£350 per week

+£650

Book Your Course Today

MOVING ON UP IN THE SKIING WORLD?

Becoming a level 3 ski instructor is the first step towards achieving your ISIA stamp. Applicants should be aware that to get the stamp you must also consider becoming certified in a second discipline (such as snowboarding), learning a second language, doing some race training, and completing further education modules to fulfil ISIA criteria. For more information please contact us.

The CSIA recognise the international equivalency of most national Level 2 qualifications. So if you have Level 2 in BASI, APSI, NZSIA, IASI or any other equivalent certification then you can join us.

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