How to become a ski instructor?
Here are the general steps to follow to become a ski instructor in France:
- Make sure you meet the basic requirements: to become a ski instructor, you must be at least 18 years old and have a driver’s license. You must also be in good physical condition and be able to ski at an advanced level.
- Take a course: there are several ski schools in France that offer training to become a ski instructor. You can choose a work-study program, which allows you to work and take classes at the same time, or a block program, which takes place over a concentrated period of time. Training includes theory and practical courses on ski technique, ski instruction, mountain safety, and more.
- Get a diploma: to become a certified ski instructor, you must pass a final exam organized by the National Ski and Alpinism School (ENSA). This exam includes a practical ski test and a theoretical test on the knowledge required to be a ski instructor.
To become a ski instructor, it is important to have a good level of skiing, but there are also other important qualities and skills to acquire:
- Excellent communication skills: you must be able to clearly convey your instructions and communicate with your students effectively.
- Good physical condition: as a ski instructor, you will often be on the mountain all day, so it is important to be in good physical condition to keep up with the pace.
- Organizational skills: you will be responsible for organizing lessons and ski trips for your students, so it is important to have good organizational skills.
- Good presentation: as a representative of your ski school or resort, it is important to have a good personal presentation and to represent your company well.
- Sense of responsibility: as a ski instructor, you will be responsible for the safety of your students during lessons and ski trips. It is important to have a high sense of responsibility and to make decisions that are necessary to ensure the safety of all.