SnowSkool operates its New Zealand ski instructor course at Cardrona on New Zealand’s south island. All skiers will work towards the ski instructor exams of the NZSIA (New Zealand Ski Instructors’ Alliance). ISIA (the International Ski Instructors’ Alliance) recognises NZSIA which means that NZISA ski instructors have the right to work internationally subject to attaining the Level 2 qualification.
The NZSIA Level 1 qualification is an entry-level qualification during which the candidate is assessed on their teaching ability and their technical skiing.
From a teaching perspective, the candidate is assessed on their ability to teach both adults and children from first time skier to advanced snowplough turns – this includes demonstrations, skier analysis, teaching methodology, class handling and safety for this level of skier. The candidate’s teaching is assessed by way of a 30-minute simulated lesson during which they present a segment of the progression from beginner to advanced snowplough turns to other members of the exam group.
From a technical perspective, candidates are expected to demonstrate advanced parallel turns using a pole touch. Candidates should be comfortable on all on-piste terrain and easier off-piste terrain. A candidate’s technical skiing is continually assessed throughout the exam.
From a teaching perspective, NZSIA Level 2 instructor candidates are assessed on their ability to teach both adults and children from snowplough turns through to advanced parallel turns – this includes demonstrations, skier analysis, teaching methodology, class handling and safety for this level of skier. The candidate’s ability to analyse skiers and plan a lesson is assessed through reviewing and discussing video clips with the Examiner. Teaching is assessed by way of a 40-minute simulated lesson with other members of the exam group.
From a technical perspective, candidates must be “expert” skiers demonstrating an ability to ski medium radius parallel turns and basic short turns on all on-piste terrain. Candidates also need to demonstrate an ability to ski off-piste terrain with speed and confidence. A candidate’s technical skiing is assessed during the final 3-days of the exam. The exam runs for 7 days (over an 8 day period with a day off on day 6).
It is a tough course but SnowSkool has the training to give you every chance of success.
