Latest posts:
Book a ski school - all you need to know
Book a ski school - all you need to know
Skiing and snowboarding are both exciting winter sports enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Just like most activities, they become even more enjoyable the better you get. For beginners, as well as those looking to refine their technique, booking a ski school is one of the best investments you can make to get the most out of your ski holiday. Lessons with a professional instructor improve your skills and make your time on the slopes both safer and more fun.
Why book a ski school?
Attending a ski school or taking private lessons is an extra expense on an already costly holiday, but there are good reasons to spend the money. Here are the main benefits.1. Learn the right technique
Skiing and snowboarding have a steep learning curve, and it's easy to develop bad habits. Professional instructors help you build a strong foundation and balance, from basic posture to advanced techniques like carving and off-piste skiing.2. Safety first
Skiing correctly minimizes the risk of injury. Instructors teach you how to fall properly (which all beginners do quite a lot), control your speed, and navigate safely through different types of terrain.3. Faster progression
Trying to learn skiing or snowboarding on your own-or relying on your friends' goodwill-can be frustrating, both for you and especially for your friends who would rather be out enjoying the slopes themselves. Additionally, it's often an inefficient way to learn. A structured lesson plan created and delivered by a professional ski instructor will ensure steady progress and greater confidence on the slopes.4. Local knowledge
Ski instructors often have in-depth knowledge of the resort and its slopes and can recommend the best runs for your skill level. This can vary from day to day, depending on snow conditions, upcoming weather, and how it affects the slopes.5. More fun
Skiing can be intimidating for beginners, but with the right guidance, it becomes much more enjoyable. If you join a group lesson, you also get the chance to meet new people and share the experience.
What to consider when booking
If you plan to book ski lessons, it's also important to make sure you choose the right class or instructor. Here are a few things to consider before making a booking.1. Group vs. private lessons
Group lessons are more affordable and social than hiring a private instructor. This is a great option for complete beginners-those taking their very first steps on the slopes.Private lessons, on the other hand, offer personalized attention, which naturally helps you improve faster. It's undoubtedly the best choice if your primary goal is to refine your technique. It can also be a good option if you want to build your fundamental skills as quickly as possible.
2. Instructor qualifications
It's not a 100% must, but it can be reassuring to know that the ski school you choose employs certified instructors with experience teaching at your level. Different countries have different certification bodies, such as the British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI), International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA) and the French ESF (École du Ski Français).3. Lesson duration
Skiing is not something you master in a day-it takes many hours of hard work on the slopes to become a good skier. That's why it's important for complete beginners to book several days of lessons, rather than just a single session.When it comes to the duration of ski lessons during a day, ski schools usually offer half-day or full-day lessons. However, there is also the option to book an hour or two, especially if you hire a private instructor. Keep in mind that a full day can be quite exhausting, so our recommendation is to book half-days. That way, you can practice on your own afterward if you still have the energy once the lesson is over. Doing a full day schedule might improve your skills faster though. In the end it is up to yourself what you prefer, it is all a matter of personal taste.
4. Book in advance
Ski schools can get fully booked quite quickly, especially during holiday periods such as the school winter break weeks in February and around Easter. Booking in advance ensures you get a spot and can sometimes even give you access to early-bird discounts.5. Location and meeting points
As mentioned earlier, attending a ski school can be physically and mentally exhausting. Choose a ski school close to your accommodation or in a part of the resort that is easy to reach to avoid unnecessary travel. Trust us-you'll appreciate having a warm place nearby to return to when your lesson is over!6. Language options
If you're going on a ski holiday abroad, check whether the ski school offers lessons in a language you understand. If you speak the local language, this usually isn't a problem. However, if you don't, it's best to make sure that the ski school staff or the instructor you hire can speak English (or another language you are comfortable with).Tips for a great ski school experience
We'd like to wrap up with some useful tips to ensure your lessons are as enjoyable and educational as possible.- Dress appropriately: Check the weather forecast in advance. The best approach is usually to wear warm, waterproof clothing and use the layering principle so you can adjust your clothing as needed.
- Arrive early: This is especially important on the first day. Give yourself plenty of time to "check in" and get ready before the lesson starts.
- Be patient: Learning to ski takes time, so focus on your progress rather than perfection, at least in the beginning.
- Listen to your instructor: The instructors have the experience and knowledge to help you improve, so pay close attention and follow their advice-it's what you're paying for, after all.
- Practice between lessons: Just because the lesson is over doesn't mean you have to stop practicing. Try to apply what you've learned on your own. A good idea is to get out on the slopes a little earlier from day two onward so you can refine what you learned the day before.

Should my kids attend to a ski school?
If you are an experienced skier yourself and you want your kids to learn skiing it is a big advantage to put your kids in ski school. One of the reasons is the same as for an adult, they will learn faster, and another, very good reason, is that while your kids attend to ski school you can be out in the slopes yourself.So, do kids absolutely have to attend to a ski school to learn skiing or snowboarding? Well, the truth is that if you have the patient to teach them yourself, and you feel like you are up to the task, it is of course a good way to save money by doing it yourself. After all, kids are both a lot quicker learner than adults and many are totally fearless, which is a big advantage when learning to ski.