FAQ’s
What skill Level do I need?
To participate in the Instructor development programs you should be at an intermediate level and be able to confidently parallel on groomed intermediate i.e. Hothams Blue trails. As a snowboarder, you should be able to turn in both directions (toe and heel side) and control speed on groomed intermediate (blue) terrain and demonstrate confidence while riding with one foot out of the binding.
Our Ski Improvement course is targeted at the advanced skier looking to break through and hone their skills on Hothams diverse terrain. You should be able to confidently ski Mt. Hothams Blue trails and venture off piste into the black areas safely. Our staff will help you hone your technique so you can conquer these areas with more confidence and style.
Accommodation?
You can organise your own accommodation. The Academy does have some options available through their connection with Mt. Hotham reservations. Please contact us for further assistance or information with your accommodation. We will be more then happy to help you out.
Becoming a qualified Instructor?
To become a qualified Snowsports Instructor in Australia, you will need to have trained and be certified by the Australian Professional Snowsports Instructors Inc. (APSI). This professional body supplies all the training and certification courses in Australia and has four levels of certification.
The four APSI Levels are:
Level 1 Instructor
This is where you start your career as a Snowsports Instructor. Only the Level 1 certification can be obtained without being employed by a Snowsports School. Employed Snowsports School staff will have the opportunity to train and learn in their home resort and many people choose to take this exam during their first teaching season.
Level 2 Instructor
Level 2 certification will equip you to be a competent and well resourced instructor with developing skills.
Level 3 Instructor
Level 3 certification means that you have achieved a high level of teaching, skiing and riding skills. This level is recognised internationally with the International Ski Instructor’s Association (ISIA) certification. To achieve this recognition you will be required to demonstrate additional skills such as the ability to teach in a second language, have a current first aid qualification and training in a second discipline.
Level 4 Instructor
This the highest level of certification available in Australia. It denotes a highly skilled expert in demonstrating, teaching, skiing or riding. A Level 4 APSI certification is highly sought and valued both in Australia and overseas. Once you have achieved this status there are training and examining opportunities ahead of you.
Getting a job with Mt. Hotham Snowsports school?
Training with the Academy is an excellent way to network with on mountain staff and gain the valuable introductions that you require for future employment. On successful completion of your APSI Level 1 certification the Skiing Academy´s staff can introduce you to the Snowsports school director as a potential employee. Certified ski instructors are much more employable both domestically and internationally then non-certified applicants. Getting employment is of course at the discretion of the Mt. Hotham Snowsports School director and depends a lot on the time of the year you apply and whether or not the school needs extra staff members etc.
Equipment?
Having your own equipment as a Snowsport professional is paramount. If you don’t yet have your own equipment or are looking to upgrade, we can arrange top of the line rentals/demos from the Mt. Hotham rental outlets. We also have a range of top of the line Nordica demo products for some of our participants to try before they buy.
Lift Tickets?
Although lift tickets are not included in the course prices ,we do have access to discounted multi day pricing from Mt. Hotham lift company. Please contact us or Mt. Hotham Resort for multi day ticketing that suits the course and amount of days you will be up in the mountains.