Mark Jones, one of ICE Val d'Isere's instructor trainers, has brought us this great guest post about how to train be become a ski instructor. In part one he looks at getting started with your BASI level 1.
Part 1 - BASI Level 1
One of the questions we are asked most is "How do I go about becoming a ski instructor?" This article is designed to answer those questions, but if you still aren’t sure you can always call us for a chat.
For most people starting out on a career as a ski instructor, or even just wanting to get to a minimum level to be able to teach part-time, you will need to achieve the BASI Level 2 qualification. However, before you can train for your level 2 qualification, you must complete the BASI Level 1 course, which offers a great introduction to the BASI system.
BASI Level 1 (5 days)
The Level 1 Instructor course is the first instructor qualification within the BASI system of training and grading. It is the initial step on the route to becoming an internationally recognised snowsport instructor. The course aims to provide you with the basic information and skills which will enable you to develop your practical performance, prior to returning for the Level 2 instructor course.
Before you can finish the BASI Level 1 qualification, you must complete 35 hours of experience in a ski school. This can be done by shadowing an instructor in an artificial or mountain environment. You must also complete the courses below:
- Safeguarding children: This is an additional module that needs to be completed as part of the BASI Level 1 qualification. The Safeguarding Children module is available through BASI as an online course. This means it can be done in your own time and in the comfort of your own home, and because it's online, the cost of this module is only £25.
- CRB check: This is a necessity for all working snowsports instructors and must be completed to maintain a current BASI licence.
- First Aid Course: As a snowsports instructor, you are required to renew your First Aid licence every three years — this needs to be done over a two day course.
In part 2, Mark goes into further detail about taking the BASI level 2 course. But, in the meantime, here's a clip of the ICE guys at work and a few of their trainees enjoying their time in Val d'Isere.
