Ski Level Two
The Ski Level Two Certification is aimed at instructors wanting to progress within the snowsports industry to teaching students at higher levels (class levels three and four). The minimum requirement to sit this Level Two is Ski Level One, or equivalent foreign qualification. A Level Two Ski Instructor is certified to teach up to advanced-intermediate (class level four).
The eight-day course includes teaching progressions from wedge turning to advanced-parallel turns with a pole plant, the teaching model and learning process, class handling and safety, skier analysis, technical information and demonstrating - all for class levels two, three and four.
Candidates’ ability to analyse skiers and plan a lesson is formally assessed via a video clip followed by a discussion with two examiners. Candidates’ teaching is assessed on the final day during an approximately 40-minute long teaching presentation to other members of their group.
Candidates should be advanced skiers that can ski dynamically on and off-piste and are able to perform a basic short turn. Personal skiing will be improved throughout the course and formally assessed within the final three days. Candidates’ demonstrations will be improved throughout the course and formally assessed within the last two days.
Summary
Length: 8 days
Cert resource: The NZSIA Ski Instructor’s Manual
Pre-requisites: You must be an associate member or full member and have Ski Level One Certfication or foreign equivalent (see FAQs).
Why take this certification: This qualification will help you seek employment as an instructor within New Zealand. It is also well recognised internationally, particularly throughout English-speaking countries and can help you secure a position overseas.
What’s next: After achieving the Ski Level Two, most people need to gather instructing experience before attempting the Level Three. Whilst the Level Three is an excellent next step, there are a number of other certs to help you progress in the industry. These include the Childrens Teaching Certification, Crossover Courses, or the Level Two Coach.
Testimonials
Name: Sarah Thompson
Course and Resort: Ski Level Two (previously Stage One) at Turoa
Year passed: 2008
“Intense and demanding, exhilarating and awesome fun! Not often can you learn so much and have so much fun in one single week. I found this course to be intensive coaching delivered with abundant enthusiasm, patience and dedication from the Examiners allowing students gain the most and perform their best.
I'm a New Zealander and have a lifelong love of mountain living. I've lived and worked in Colorado mountain towns in a variety of occupations including fitness training, many skills from which I can transfer to ski teaching. It's inspiring to have such a high standard to aim for and to reach, then to have confidence and pride in the consequent reputation of the NZSIA certification. The Trainers have a high degree of professionalism, meticulous coverage of skiing theory and practice, and constant encouragement in the face of the demanding curriculum.”
Name: Tom Pryde
Course and Resort: Ski level Two (previously Stage One) at Coronet Peak
Year passed: 2008
“This was my third attempt at the exam! I thought it was well run and of a high standard. The lecturers were helpful and available if you needed help with anything. I think it equips you well for teaching. I have had two seasons at Treblecone instructing and two at Lake Louise in Canada. I am about to go back to Lake Louise for my third season there. I want to be a professional full-time ski instructor and intend to be in the business long term.”