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Certifications
A fantastic choice of Certifications & Qualifications
Our instructor training programs allow you to obtain a range of certifications with the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboarding Instructors (AASI).
We also offer a Backcountry and Avalanche certification through the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA).
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The PSIA and AASI
The Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboarding Instructors (AASI) are national bodies responsible for governing snow sports training in the United States. Membership to these bodies represents professionalism and rewarding personal achievement. The PSIA and AASI are also members of the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA). PSIA and AASI qualifications are recognised throughout the United States and could see you working in New Zealand, Australia, USA, the European Alps, Japan or South America.
The PSIA & AASI like all other snow sport alliances have several certification stages. Within the PSIA and AASI systems there three levels of certifications. Level three is required to become a member of the International Ski Instructors Alliance (ISIA). More information regarding the PSIA and AASI and their respective certifications are available at the following organisations websites.
For more info on these organisations please click on the logos:
 
We offer training towards the following certifications:
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PSIA or AASI Level One Certification
The level one certification is for those entering the snow sports instruction industry. The exam focuses on the skills, knowledge and professionalism necessary to be an effective ski or snowboard teacher. Those that achieve this certification will be expected to competently teach snowsports to beginner to intermediate skiers and snowboarders. The level one exam is a three day pass or fail module which includes on hill teaching and demonstrations and a written theory component.
To complete the PSIA or AASI level one certification you will also need to ski and ride comfortably, linking turns on most terrain. We expect all of our candidates to pass this exam after attending one of our training programs.
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PSIA or AASI Level Two Certification
The level two certification focuses on the skills and knowledge required to teach advanced level skiers or snowboarders. The exam consists of two parts; a three day skiing or snowboarding module followed by a three day teaching module. Candidates are required to pass the three day skiing or riding module prior to sitting the teaching module.
To complete the level two exam (in the same season as the level one) you must have completed a continuous training program and be ‘signed off’ by our resort training director as having the required technical knowledge and skills to complete the exam. The PSIA or AASI President will then give final approval for you to sign up for the exam.
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PSIA or AASI Freeride or Freestyle Accreditation
The Freeride (Ski) or Freestyle (Snowboard) is a two day accreditation that is based on Park and Pipe. It is designed for those interested in becoming qualified freestyle coaches. The Freeride (ski) and Freestyle (snowboard) is a two day accreditation that is based on Park & Pipe. It covers rails, boxes and terrain features including jumps. Confident use of half pipes and quarter pipes is also covered. Basic maneuvers are explored as well as some fundamental tricks. You will also learn how to teach and coach the approach, take off, maneuvers and landing (ATML) on all features.
It is expected that candidates have a good understanding of the skills and movements required for park and pipe manoeuvres and are able to demonstrate these confidently. Prerequisite: Intermediate to advanced ski or board ability in the park and pipe.
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Backcountry Avalanche Certification
The Backcountry Avalanche Certification is an invaluable two day course. It is designed to give you a basic understanding of avalanche formation and to develop your observation skills. Half of the time is focused on theory in the classroom and the other half is based on snow. You will learn how to recognise potential avalanche conditions, how differing snow pack conditions affect avalanche danger and how to choose safe routes in the backcountry. You will also learn rescue techniques and how to use various rescue tools such as beacons and probes.
As an extension to the Backcountry Avalanche Certification we offer an Overnight Backcountry Tour. This covers how to be comfortable on an overnight tour in the snow. You will experiment with different types of shelter, cooking options, packing, site selection and tour options.
These are both run by AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) certified guides. For further information please visit www.amga.com.
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First Aid Certificate
The first aid course teaches practical skills about how to manage a range of medical and accident emergencies. The course provides an excellent assessment standard that ensures you feel confident about providing first aid when needed.
The course will teach you about scene assessment, safety, identifying hazards in the workplace, medical conditions and ways to manage a range of possible emergencies including burns, poisoning, soft tissue injuries, head and spinal injuries, eye injuries, chest injuries, chest pain (such as heart attacks) and major incidents. This is an excellent course and is an invaluable tool for those working in the ski or snowboard industry.
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