18 Week Level 1, 2 & 3 Ski Instructor Course

Course Type Ski Instructor
Dates 29th Nov-1st April
Price From £13100
Venue Canada - Sun Peaks
Qualifications CSIA Level 1,2 & 3 Ski Instructor
Add Flights? Add flights for £650

About the Trip

This is the ultimate way to spend a season in the mountains. 18 full weeks of training that can be tailored to suit your needs with different options and flexibility to give you the course you want. At the end of it you’ll come out more qualified and experienced than you ever could  have imagined

In one season, you can:

  • Train for levels 1 and 2 and work towards L3 and other qualifications in the Academy Program.
  • Take a leisurely approach to attain CSIA Levels 1 and 2 ski instructor qualifications
  • Gain your Level 1 and 2, and then join the full Ski Patrol program (£725 supplement)
  • Become Duel Certified in both the CASI Snowboard and CSIA Ski Instructor tickets.

The Academy is our new 6-week program which focuses on multi-skills training that pushes your skiing further and looks great on your CV. You’ll not only work towards your Level 3 but also focus on backcountry training, off pistes skills, Mountain Patrol and a comprehensive 4-day first aid course.

Features

18 Weeks L1, L2, L3 training
CSIA Level 1 exam & Membership
Possible Dual certification
Ski in Ski out Accommodatoin
Meal plan across five different restaurants
Resort rep 24/7
Season Lift Pass

Benefits

A full season in the resort
Massive amount of training in one season
Receive up to 9 certificates
Guaranteed interviews for returning clients wanting employment with a level 2 certificate.
Extensive Bolt ons available
Ability to tailor the program to suit you

Click to see what the fuss is about!

Resort

Sun Peaks is nestled in the valley between 3 mountains, spanning 4200 acres of incredible terrain, and is the second biggest ski area in Canada.

Take the lift to the Top of the World. Breathe in the expansive vistas as the snow ghosts bow to those Bluebird mornings. Catch one of the 13 lifts, get immersed in one of the 137 runs, and disappear into 16 gladed areas.

Find some of the best-untouched powder amongst tree-lined runs or rip it up in the 10-acre terrain park.

Blessed with some of the best conditions that Canada has to offer, with  6 meters of light, dry powder that is famous to the interior of BC and officially the sunniest resort. With few lift queues and wide open slopes, it’s no surprise that it’s regularly awarded in the Top 3 Best Resorts. Maybe that’s why the Interski trials are held here.

Back it up with enough hotels, shops, bars, restaurants and cafes, and you’ve got a world-class venue to keep grinning from ear to ear. Prepared to be wowed.

Cahility Lodge

Located in the heart of Sun Peaks Resort, the Cahilty Lodge is the perfect base for a ski instructor course. Forgot your goggles or want to head back for Lunch? The Cahilty is ski-in/ski-out and only a short walk from all the shops, restaurants and ski lifts. Based on the alpine style with spacious rooms, it has everything you need to make it a home-from-home.

The studios and 1-bedrooms suites are well set up for short and long stays. All Murphy rooms feature a kitchenette, gas fireplace, dining area and free wireless internet. The dining room table seats four people, and there’s a flat-screen TV and comfy sofa for relaxing when the room is set up for single or double occupancy. Otherwise the non kitchenette versions are a standard double Queen hotel room with basic facilities comprising, kettle, microwave, and fridge. Rooms are set out in blocks, so you’ll be next to all your fellow instructor mates.

There is a double share or a single room availability, and the price is reflective of this difference.

Guest amenities include a fitness room, outdoor hot tubs, ski storage and a laundry area.

Facilities: Ski-in, Ski-out | Outdoor Hot Tubs | Gym | 24-Hour Reception | Lockable Ski Storage | Wifi | Fireplace | Kitchen | Ensuite

Breakfast and Dinner

If it’s one thing we want you to do. It’s to stay fuelled up.

Four breakfasts and dinners per week can be included with your course, meaning you’ve got time to relax and concentrate on what’s important.  With pretty much the pick of the menu across 3-4 restaurants, it gives you enough variety every week to not get bored and ensures you’re getting what you need. However, if you have special dietary requirements or prefer to cook for yourself, then some of the rooms have kitchenettes, allowing you to take more control over what you eat.

Special nights are arranged during the course when everyone can get together for something a little different. Mexican Margherita night, anyone?

As great as it is being catered for, there’s plenty of time to cook for yourself back in your studio. We get it. Sometimes it’s nice to relax, order a pizza, make a bowl of pasta, and catch up on Netflix. Regardless of your culinary skills, there are plenty more places to eat in Sunpeaks Village. Whether you’re a vegetarian*, meat fiend, spice lover, or want something simple, there’s something for everyone.

*Please say if you have dietary requirements, as we can advise what is possible or even suggest self-catering if that works better for you. We’ll also give you plenty of advice on how much to budget for all your extra costs, plus that odd cheeky beer!

About the Location
Accommodation
Meal Plan

Training Package

Level 1 & 2 Training
Specially designed for Winter Sports by Level 4 instructors and evaluators. On Snow Training is provided 4 days a week by CSIA level 3 & 4 instructors, with an extra day scheduled for shadow teaching with the school. In addition, Level 1 and 2 course conductors will provide one-to-one feedback and training as you approach the exams.

CSIA Level 1 Ski Instructor Exam.
The CSIA exam is as much a course as an examination and is included with your package. Spread over 3 days and planned after 3 solid weeks of pre-training. On successful completion, you will become a member of the CSIA. Level 2 & 3 modules and assessments can be booked directly with CSIA by the participant upon completion of level 1. Level 2 costs approx $950, Level 3 costs approx $1400.

Level 3 Academy Training 

During the Academy course, you’ll receive 19 full days of instruction, plus extra days for Ski School and Mountain Patrol shadowing. The 19 days include 8 days of L3 instruction, 3 days of Patrol training, 4 days of NUEC 2 outdoor first aid courses and 4 days of backcountry and off-piste training. There will also be time to sign up for the L3 modules should you wish to push your skiing further.

NUEC 2 First Aid

The first aid course is highly respected and gives you over 30 hrs of practical remote first aid skills, valuable on the ski slopes and in any outdoor setting. It is accepted as the level for assistant guides, white water rafting guides and ski patrol support, to name a few.

Full Patrol Course (£725 Supplement)

The Mountain Patrol course will cover all the situations, skills, and accreditation you need to learn to join the team on the mountain. With up to 40hrs of training each week, this is one of the most in-depth ski courses we provide. You’ll learn about toboggan handling, patient extraction, air rescue, helicopter orientation, mountaineering, and many other essential skills during the course. You’ll also become certified in the NUEC 3 110hr first aid, avalanches safety and advanced protocol.

CSIA Membership & Instructor Licence.

We enrol you with a CSIA membership for the year as part of your course. You will be provided with a login to the website, where you can sign up for the level 2 & 3 exams. Upon completion of level 1, you will be a licenced instructor.

Shadow Teaching
An integral part of the course is shadow teaching. Shadowing real lessons helps prepare for your Level 2, and looks good on your CV. Once qualified, you will find yourself rostered into the ski school schedule once a week. Ski School shadowing is introduced as you progress through the course.

Additional Training Option
Further certifications are available throughout the programme. Including Avalanche Skills Training, Adaptive Ski Instructor Qualification, Race Coaching certification and Park course.
Snow Ready Fitness Plan
One of the most vital elements for your success is fitness. Created for the Winter Sports by a Personal Trainer, Sports Therapist, and Nutrition Coach, this 8-week pre-season programme targets the muscle groups used in skiing & snowboarding. It will make sure you are shredded & snow-fit in time for the start of your course.

Course Schedule

Click to Open

Professional coaching is provided 4 days a week plus an extra day for shadow teaching, typically from Monday – Friday. Weekends can be spent shadowing the ski school, free-skiing or ticking off one of your chosen Bolt-Ons. Feast your eyes on this!

Week 1

Settling in, exploring and introduction to being a ski instructor. Get kitted up and out on the slopes. Calm the egos or nerves and get rid of any bad “holiday skiing habits”. Getting the correct skiing fundamentals in place right from the start. Start to relax into your new life.

Week 2-4

Training starts to focus on your ski improvement, technique and teaching the CSIA way. Moving to more advanced and challenging terrain. Including video analysis and consolidation of all the new methods.Ski Tuning Workshop . During week 3, complete your final days of level 1 training, CSIA Level 1 exam at the end of the week. Christmas week- whilst celebrating being an official level 1 instructor, lesson shadowing & additional courses.

Week 5-7

Without wasting any time it’s back to Training, Week 5 will be the beginning of your level 2 CSIA training. Over the next few weeks in training, you will learn how to perform bumps, short radius turns, powder skiing, dynamic carving and teaching to the CSIA level 2 standard. Find your mojo and watch how your technique strengthens daily.

Week 8-10

Week 8 will included Level 2, All-mountain, freestyle, CAD’s and Park bolt ons and assessment.

You will receive teaching practice for bumps, intermediate parallel and CSIA Level 2 assessment by course examiners to prepare you for the upcoming exam. Then in week 10, you will receive condensed Level 2 training and exam preparation before beginning the 4 day Level 2 modules.

Week 11-12

The level 2 exam is a nerve racking 2 days, but with 10 weeks of training and experience you will be more than ready. Once completing the exams, celebrations will begin to congratulate you on your achievement.
Week 12 will include lesson shadowing and additional courses (AST, Adaptive Sports, Race Coaching, Park Course).

Week 13-18

You decide whether to mix all the Snow Academy elements, like Ski Patrol training, Level 3 training with modules, Introduction to Back country training, 4 day wilderness First Aid. Or really go to town and get as far up the ladder as you can with 18 days of dedicated Level 3 training.

"Priceless Experience- 9 certificates!"

Win - 17 April 2022

"I had a wonderful 18 weeks experience at Sun Peaks, Canada in 21-22 season, accomplishing everything I set out to do. Very big thanks to all the awesome people of Wintersports for making it all happen."

Bolt On Courses

The Bolt-ons are the point where you can turn your already stellar winter season into something truly unforgettable. Whilst some are devised to improve your CV, some enhance your smile. The Heliski experience will have you grinning from ear to ear all the way back home through your front door. So decide what is critical for you, an adrenaline ride, gap year, career-breaking, mid-life crisis-soothing adventure? Or something that will put another few dollars on your wages and make your instructor resume stand out?

These are ancillary offerings to our clients once onboarded. It is a simple, transparent method so you can cherry-pick what you want and, more importantly, not be forced into paying over the odds for something you do not want.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

A winter in the mountains is an exciting opportunity, and we want to best prepare you for what’s to come. Our blog details past experiences of clients who have qualified as instructors and those who have continued to work in the industry. We also dive into how to best prepare for a season and what to expect when you arrive. After reading, there are so many facets to a season, and we’re sure you’ll want to become a certified ski bum.

What's included

WSC 18 Week Training Package

This 18 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 important 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, making sure everything runs smoothly in resort.

CSIA Level 1 Exam and Membership

The level 1 course exam and membership are included in the price. You can add your Level 2 & 3 exams; level 2 costs approx $1050, and Level 3 costs approx $1400.

CSIA Level 2 Exam

There are no hidden extras in your package so you have the 4 day CSIA Teach and Ski modules along with the 2 day exam included as standard. However should you want to remove this from your package this can be done given enough notice.

Video Analysis

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

Accommodation for your Entire Stay

Staying at the Cahility Lodge, you’ll have everything you need. Ski in/out, and centrally located in the village. 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

4 Breakfasts and dinners are provided every week of your stay. Using 3-4 different restaurants within the resort. You can add this for an additional £110 per week or simply add breakfast only for £36 a week, or dinners only for £75 per week.

Regular Team Socials

From Pool comp night, Floodlit skiing or riding and Mexican Margherita Night. There’s always something going on in or around the resort. Between these and the Bolt-Ons, you will have some experiences to remember for the rest of your life, with new lifelong friends.

Employment Interviews & Job Opportunities

On Successful completion of your Level 2, should you wish to return to Sun Peaks as an instructor, then a guaranteed interview can be arranged.
We can also arrange further interviews at other resorts in Canada and around 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.

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.

Bolt On's and Extra Qualifications

From extra accreditation to pure fun, the bolt-on covers it all. Sign up for the AST 1, Adaptive or Race coach or add on an experience. Heli Day, Revelstoke Trip, Ice Hockey Night, Dog Sledding or Shopping in Kamloops. There’s something for everyone’s budget.

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

Dates & Prices

Dates Accommodation Double Room Single Room Flights

29th Nov – 1st April

Cahility Lodge

£14,250

+£350 per week

+£650

Book Your Course Today

The 18-week programme offers the widest variety of options and the maximum potential for gaining several qualifications in just one season. This unique season-long course is ideal for gap years, career breaks, and instructors looking to start out in the industry. With a huge ski area, a friendly resort and a great atmosphere, it will capture your heart. It’s not a coincidence that many customers return to work there each year.
Flying out in November, you’ll be amazed at the amount of early snow in Canada and enjoy early-season skiing before most resorts in Europe have opened. Training begins a couple of days after arrival, and being an early bird on the slopes means you won’t have to share the mountains with hundreds of people. You will learn the terrain, get to meet the locals and settle in to enjoy an unforgettable white Christmas. We encourage you to select your own approach to training so you can progress as fast or as slowly as you want. Once you’ve passed your Level 1 skiing instructor course, you’re free to develop your talents and continue to enjoy the resort.
The snow school at Sun Peaks Resort is a centre for instructor training. It attracts some of the best CSIA level 4 instructors in the country.

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