Ski Instructor Programme
Alongside our three Winter Mountain Programmes, eligible students can also choose to take part in the Ski Instructor Programme. This is an additional programme, allowing students to continue with their chosen Winter Mountain Programme while also working towards a professional ski instructor qualification.
For students who want to take their skiing further, VIS offers the opportunity to work towards internationally recognised IASI Level 1 and Level 2 ski instructor qualifications, with training delivered by the Warren Smith Ski Academy.
Based in Verbier, the Warren Smith Ski Academy has extensive experience in skier development and instructor training. The programme is not simply about preparing for an assessment. Students develop a deeper understanding of skiing technique and biomechanics, as well as what is involved in teaching and developing other skiers.
Alongside improving their own technical skiing, students learn the practical skills needed to teach others, including communication, lesson delivery, group management and an understanding of skiing progression. Video analysis is also used to help students understand their own skiing and learn how to identify and improve the performance of others.
Working towards IASI Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications gives students a recognised pathway into ski instruction and the wider snowsports industry.
For older students in particular, the programme is an opportunity to combine their education and passion for skiing with a practical professional qualification. They leave with not only stronger skiing skills, but also valuable experience in teaching, leadership and communication, as well as the possibility of future work in the mountains.
