How esf Courchevel 1850 is preparing the next generation: immersion with young trainees

Before being able to give ski or snowboard lessons as an instructor, and to obtain the state diploma linked to this profession, young esf trainees must first follow a demanding training programme lasting several years, punctuated by varied teaching, demonstrations, and assessments.

Today, almost 500 instructors welcome you to the esf Courchevel 1850, and many more students are currently preparing to join the big family of "red jumpers". Discover all the secrets of this unique profession and immerse yourself in the world of esf trainees!

Before becoming a trainee alpine ski instructor, each student must first pass the technical test (timed slalom), then pass Training Unit 1 in a school (ENSA). UF1 provides an opportunity to work on the technical, teaching, and safety aspects of teaching alpine skiing. Validation of these two stages then gives access to a first training course and consequently the right to teach.

Often from the mountains, young trainees who have passed UF1 continue their course with two weeks' training. These 15 days are designed to prepare them to officially join a state-recognised structure such as an ESF. To accomplish this, they must register with an approved training centre, as is possible at esf Courchevel 1850.

After joining a training centre, students continue their studies for several years to obtain their national diploma as an Alpine ski instructor. During this demanding course, they undertake several compulsory work placements in a ski school to discover and put into practice what they have learnt: guiding, supervising, etc.

During their placements, they take on the role of alpine ski instructor, looking after groups of children (3ᵉ étoile maximum) and adults up to class 2... For their part, aspirants, another category of trainees, can take charge of all levels, except off-piste. This is the reality of the terrain and all its diversity! This allows them to discover all the facets of the profession and improve their teaching methods.

To obtain their state diploma, the young trainees must master all the demonstrations but also have an excellent knowledge of the snowy environment, whether it's fauna, flora, or the risk of avalanche, and the knowledge linked to all that (meteorology, warning messages, searching for buried people, first aid, etc.). A complete programme!

Learning to be an alpine ski instructor is not just about acquiring and passing on technical knowledge. In fact, ski instructors always bear a great responsibility towards their pupils, but also towards the organisation that trains them. Through their training and work placements, instructors also learn about the values that make up this profession.

Respect for the mountain environment, involvement in the socio-professional environment, trust and professionalism... These values make the alpine ski instructor a reference for safety and competence. Young people have around four years to become fully imbued with these values, which are so dear to the esf.