Frequently asked questions & guide to kit

Frequently asked questions

How much does each programme cost?

view our dates and prices page...

What is the success rate?

• 95% at level 1
• 80% at level 2

What qualifications will I get?

• CSIA, CASI, instructor level 1 (level 2 optional) NZSIA, SBINZ (Certificate in Snowsports Instruction & Stage 1) or BASI (Ski/Snowboard Instructor)
• Freestyle coach (optional)
• SNSC Alpine Ski Leader or Snowboard Leader
• Mountain First Aid
• Avalanche awareness
• ILM level 2 certificate in team leading (not all courses)
• Snowmobile introduction(Canada only)

And training in:

• Ski tuning
• Racing
• Freestyle
• Back country
• Off piste/chutes/steeps
• Moguls
• Deep powder

Where are the qualifications recognised?

• All qualifications are recognised internationally. The Snowsports' Scotland Leader Award has enabled Peak Leaders to work in France, but not as a mountain instructor.
• In some countries it is easier to find work in than others. Peak Leaders work a lot in Canada, USA and Europe. Some Peak Leaders are head hunted from courses in the southern hemisphere straight into jobs in the northern hemisphere.

What standard do I need to be before starting?

Ideally you should be intermediate or better. Although some athletic trainees have not quite been up to this standard they reached Canadian level 1 in 9 weeks. By intermediate we mean, able to link turns down an intermediate slope and not to too fazed on black.

How much will I improve on the course?

The video above shows a group of trainees in the first week of the course.....all the way through to their Level 1....SPOT THE DIFFERENCE?!

Do I need a visa?

• Visitors visas are issued automatically to Peak Leaders trainees on entry to the country where their courses are running.
• Work visas are separate and are required for employment. In Canada work visas sometimes come with an offer of employment.

Is there an age limit?

You should be 18 or over

What is the Skiing like in South America?

You get massive precipitation off the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans leading to frequent dumps of snow. The scenery with lakes, volcanoes, forest and circling giant condors set against the backdrop of the Andes, is magnificent. There are plenty of off piste opportunities on Cerro Catedral and on the trip to Esquel.

Do I need to bring my own kit?

Yes. Trainees should come with all their gear, although it is possible to buy equipment in country. Specialist gear (like beacons probes and shovels), are provided.

How much money will I need to bring?

About £1500 for pocket money, beers and lunches on the mountain.

What is the food like?

Excellent. Look at each course for exact provision but on all courses we offer at least 5 good evening meals. Vegetarian preferences available.

What if I have special dietary requirements?

All reasonable dietary requirements are met

What is the night life like?

There are plenty of opportunities to party. In every resort there is a vibrant and diverse night life.