Snowsport Scotland is the awarding body for all UK Snowsport qualifications in Scotland and offers a full range of courses that will train, assess and license you to become a fully qualified instructor, performance coach or leader.
View a full size image of the qualifications pathways shown below or scroll down to find out more about your chosen qualification.
Ski and Snowboard instructor qualifications are for those who wish to work in a ski school delivering lessons to customers of all ages from beginner to expert.
Click here to find out more
Alpine Performance Coach qualifications are for those wishing to work within a club or academy structure developing young trainees and athletes to perform in the alpine race disciplines.
Click here to find out more
Park and Pipe Performance Coach qualifications are for those wishing to work within a club or academy structure developing young trainees and athletes to perform in the park and pipe competitive disciplines.
Click here to find out more
Cross country coach qualifications are for those wishing to work within a club or academy structure developing young trainees and athletes to perform at the rollerski and cross country racing disciplines.
Click here to find out more
Snowsports Leader qualifications are for those wishing to safely lead snowsports groups on excursions. There are specific leadership qualifications designed for working in on-piste and off-piste environments.
Click here to find out more
There are 2 levels of UK Snowsport instructor qualification. Each is designed to fulfill a specific role in the Snowsports workforce:-
- The L1 Foundation Instructor licensed to deliver lessons to from beginner up to early intermediate
- The L2 Instructor is licensed to deliver lessons at all levels from beginner to advanced
L1 FOUNDATION INSTRUCTOR – 2 day training course £199
The L1 Foundation Ski or Snowboard Instructor qualification licenses candidates to teach beginners and early intermediates up to plough parallel at UK ski centres. The qualification can be used in UK artificial ski centres and also in Scottish mountain ski resorts, once the candidate completes an additional 1 day of mountain induction training.
NOTE: The award does not permit instructing off-piste. (please see leadership awards)
PROCESS:
- Before attending the course candidates must first sign up as a member of Snowsport Scotland and ensure that they are technically proficient at carved turns on artificial surfaces or blue and red runs
- Candidates should then sign up to attend the 2 day training course which will be delivered by an appointed Snowsport Scotland Tutor. In some cases training might be delivered in a series of shorter modular sessions.
- At the end of the training the tutor will confirm to the candidate if they are a the required level of competency and provide them with 2 documents:-
- An action plan detailing the skills and areas they need to work on
- A logbook of tasks and work experience that must be completed in a ski school or club
- Once the candidate has completed all the logbook tasks and can demonstrate competence in all the requisite skills they can be approved by their tutor for licensing.
BECOMING LICENSED:
To become licensed by the governing body candidates must also ensure they hold a current 2-day outdoor first aid training certificate and an online safeguarding and child protection training certificate.
To download PDF copies of the course workbook, logbook and assessment paperwork use these links.
Courses are organised by accredited Snowsport Scotland Training centres and delivered by appointed SSS tutors. Enquire at your club or email info@snowsportscotland.org
L2 INSTRUCTOR – Trained to teach all levels – 2 days from £199
The L2 Ski or Snowboard Instructor licenses candidates to teach at all levels at UK ski centres. The qualification can not only be used in UK artificial ski centres but it can also be used in Scottish mountain ski resorts, provided the candidate completes an additional 1 day of mountain induction training.
NOTE: The award does not permit instructing off-piste. (please see leadership awards)
PROCESS:
- Before attending the course candidates must first sign up as a member of Snowsport Scotland and ensure that they are technically proficient at carved turns on artificial surfaces or blue and red runs
- Candidates should then sign up to attend the 2 day training course which will be delivered by an appointed Snowsport Scotland Tutor. In some cases training might be delivered in a series of shorter modular sessions.
- At the end of the training the tutor will confirm to the candidate if they are a the required level of competency and provide them with 2 documents:-
- An action plan detailing the skills and areas they need to work on
- A logbook of tasks and work experience that must be completed in a ski school or club
- Once the candidate has completed all the logbook tasks and can demonstrate competence in all the requisite skills they can be approved by their tutor for licensing.
BECOMING LICENSED:
To become licensed by the governing body candidates must also ensure they hold a current 2-day outdoor first aid training certificate and an online safeguarding and child protection training certificate.
To download PDF copies of the course workbook, logbook and assessment paperwork use these links.
Courses are organised by accredited Snowsport Scotland Training centres and delivered by appointed SSS tutors. Enquire at your club or email info@snowsportscotland.org
Once qualified candidates are then well placed to go on to gain higher level qualifications allowing you to work abroad.
The Qualification + Revalidation Process
How do I get qualified?
The process of getting qualified is pretty straightforward, but you will need to commit to it, to get all the steps concluded quickly, efficiently and thoroughly.
Here are the steps.
- Register with Snowsport Scotland as a coach/leader/instructor member.
- Find an instructor course. Book onto it and download the course resources to start your pre-course reading.
- Practice your technical skiing/snowboarding to ensure you are performing at the right level for the course.
- Attend the training course and then start working through your logbook of tasks and shadowing qualified instructors in a local snowsports school or club.
- Do a 2-day first aid training course and upload your certificate to your profile.
- Complete a 2.5hr online safeguarding or child protection training and upload the certificate.
- Attend and pass the assessment! (For many courses the assessment is conducted continually throughout the training course. For the entry-level foundation qualifications and the instructor qualification, the assessment is a final step after you have concluded all above stages. This affords you more time to consolidate your skills and complete your logbook so you are absolutely ready to be assessed, be passed and BECOME LICENSED!)
If you work at it, you can complete the whole process in just a few weeks.
| Course Pre-requisites | Training Course | Logbook | Technical and Delivery Assessment | Other Credentials needed for Licensing | 3 year award revalidation requirements | |
| Foundation Instructor | Current membership of NGB coaching scheme. Pre-course tasks and exercises | 2 days in an artificial environment | Evidencing completion of designated tasks, shadowing and min 20hrs supervised delivery, verified by ski school manager or head coach & approved by NGB | Separate 1 day technical and delivery assessment conducted by appointed NGB tutor following logbook verification. | First Aid Child Protection Enhanced DBS for SSE + SSW only |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE SSW only |
| Instructor | Current membership of NGB coaching scheme L1 Instructor award or equivalent Pre-course tasks and exercises |
2 days in an artificial environment or ski resort | Evidencing completion of designated tasks, shadowing and min 30hrs supervised delivery, verified by ski school manager or head coach & approved by NGB | Separate 1 day technical and delivery assessment conducted by appointed NGB tutor following logbook verification. | First Aid Child Protection Enhanced DBS for SSE + SSW only |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE SSW only |
Looking for recognition and equivalency for your other qualifications?
If you already hold valid snowsports instructor qualifications, you can apply for them to be recognised as “Accredited Prior Learning” (APL) allowing you to either:-
- Gain exemption from attending certain levels of courses and be granted direct access to the higher level qualification training courses, OR
- Be recognised as trained to an equivalent level to one of the UK Snowsport qualifications and be granted direct access to assessment, permitting you to be directly awarded a UK Snowsports qualification.
Applications for APL or equivalency should be submitted by this form
All applications are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Each applicant will be contacted by email and asked for evidence of:-
- Valid current qualification certificates
- A portfolio of workplace experience
Please direct any questions to info@snowsportscotland.org
Instructor Opportunities
Once qualified as an instructor you have many options:-
- Stay at that qualification level, keep working and keep developing your skills and knowledge by attending regular Continued Professional Development Courses
- Move into development coach role working in a regular annual coaching programme with a club with recreational participants
- Move into a performance coach role working in a regular annual coaching programme training competitors and performance athletes in your chosen discipline
- Move into an international instructing qualification pathway with BASI or IASI to gain an international ski instructor association (ISIA) award and work abroad.
There are 4 levels of UK Snowsport Alpine and Park and Pipe Performance Coach as follows:-
- L1 Foundation Performance Coach
- L2 Club Performance Coach
- L3 Head Performance Coach
- L4 National Performance Coach
L1 FOUNDATION COACH – 2 days from £199
The entry level UKSS performance coaching qualification licenses candidates to work with entry level Alpine or Park + Pipe trainees and young competitors to develop skills as directed by head coach in a club environment. The qualification can not only be used in UK artificial ski centres but it can also be used in Scottish mountain ski resorts, provided the candidate completes an additional 1 day of mountain induction training.
NOTE: The award does not permit coaching activity off-piste. (please see leadership awards)
PREPARATION: Before attending the course candidates should ensure that they are proficient at carved turns on blue and red runs.
COST: The 2 day training course costs £199 and then requires all candidates to obtain experience in a working club to complete a logbook of set tasks tasks before being finally assessed and approved for licensing. Licensed status requires candidates to hold an annual coach membership with Snowsport Scotland and a current first aid and child protection certificate.
To download copies of the course overview, workbook, logbook and assessment paperwork use this link. ALPINE & PARK + PIPE L1 Foundation Performance Coach
Courses are organised by accredited Snowsport Scotland Training centres and delivered by appointed SSS tutors. Enquire at your club or email info@snowsportscotland.org
L2 CLUB PERFORMANCE COACH – 6 days from £450
The UKSS club performance coach qualification licenses candidates to work with club performance trainees up to FIS level to develop skills for competition as directed by head coach.
NOTE: The award does not permit coaching activity off-piste.
PREPARATION: Before attending the course candidates should ensure that they have completed the foundation coach qualification.
COST: The 6 day training course costs £450 and includes assessment. After the course is completed a logbook of workplace tasks must be completed before licensing. The qualification also requires candidates to hold a first aid certificate, a child protection certificate a UKAD Coach Clean training certificate and an annual coach membership with Snowsport Scotland to remain valid.
Courses are organised by accredited Snowsport Scotland Training centres and delivered by appointed SSS tutors. Enquire at your club or email info@snowsportscotland.org
L3 HEAD PERFORMANCE COACH- 6 days from £450
The UKSS club performance coach qualification licenses candidates to lead a team of coaches and plan and implement an annual performance coaching programme. Qualified coaches will work directly with club and academy performance trainees developing skills for competition as well as mentoring and managing lower level coaches. They also have the opportunity to apply for the IVSI international coach certification and license.
PREPARATION: Before attending the course candidates should ensure that they have completed the L2 Club Performance Coach qualification.
COST: The 6 day training course costs £450 and includes assessment. The qualification also requires candidates to maintain an annual coach membership with Snowsport Scotland to remain valid.
Courses are organised by Snowsport Scotland and delivered by appointed SSS tutors. Enquire at info@snowsportscotland.org
L4 NATIONAL PERFORMANCE COACH
The UKSS National performance coach award qualifies candidates to work with the National Team and contribute to the development of snowsports through a research paper.
Qualification access is granted from application to Snowsport Scotland.
The Qualification + Revalidation Process
| Qualification | Course Pre-requisites |
Training Course | Logbook | Technical and Delivery Assessment |
Other Credentials needed for Licensing | 3 year award revalidation requirements |
| Foundation Performance Coach | NGB Coach Membership. Pre-course online learning and exercises |
2 days in an artificial or ski resort environment | Evidencing of supervised coaching experience and designated tasks signed off by head coach & verified by NGB | 1 day technical and delivery assessment conducted by appointed NGB tutor following logbook verification | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
| Club Performance Coach | NGB Coach Membership. L1 Performance Coach Award or equivalent. Pre-course online learning and exercises |
6 days in a ski resort environment | Evidencing coaching experience and designated tasks signed off by head coach & verified by NGB | Continual technical and delivery assessment conducted during course with resulting pass or action plan | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
| Head Performance Coach (IVSI) | NGB Coaching Membership. L2 Performance Coach Award or equivalent Pre-course online learning and exercises |
6 days in a ski resort environment | Evidencing 12 months of coaching experience and a comprehensive coaching portfolio, signed-off by a higher level coach & verified by NGB | Continual technical and delivery assessment conducted during course with resulting pass or action plan | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
| Head Performance Coach | NGB Coaching Membership. L3 Performance Coach Award or equivalent Already at minimum personal performance criteria |
N/a | Evidencing 12 months of coaching experience and a comprehensive coaching portfolio, signed-off by a senior tutor. | N/a | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW only |
Performance Coach Opportunities
Once you get onto the performance coach pathway your options are:-
- Stay at your qualification level, keep working and keep developing your skills and knowledge by attending regular Continued Professional Development Courses
- Move to a higher level or performance coach and work with higher level athletes and trainees.
Seeking Equivalency or Recognition for other Awards?
If you already hold valid snowsports coaching qualifications, you can apply for them to be recognised as “Accredited Prior Learning” (APL) allowing you to either:-
- Gain exemption from attending certain levels of courses and be granted direct access to the higher level qualification training courses, OR
- Be recognised as trained to an equivalent level to one of the Nordic Performance Coaching Levels and be granted direct access to assessment, permitting you to be awarded a Snowsport Scotland qualification.
Applications for APL or equivalency should be submitted by this form.
All applications are dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Each applicant will be contacted by email and asked for evidence of:-
- Valid current qualification certificates
- A portfolio of workplace experience
Please direct any questions to info@snowsportscotland.org
CROSS COUNTRY PERFORMANCE COACH
The Cross Country Performance Coach qualifications license you to train participants from entry level beginners right through to athletes looking to perform in the Cross Country Racing competitive disciplines.
As a qualified Cross Country Coach you can secure year-round work at one of the Nordic clubs. There are 4 levels of Cross Country Performance Coach qualification as follows:-
- Cross Country Foundation Coach – 2 days training
- Cross Country Performance Coach – 3 days training including continual assessment
- Cross Country Senior Performance Coach – By application with supporting portfolio
- Cross Country National Performance Coach – By application with supporting portfolio
Due to numbers, Nordic coaching courses are currently being arranged on an ad-hoc basis. If you are interested in participating in a coaching course please register your interest by clicking here and we will contact you with details in due course.
For more information on the courses, qualification process and remit please see below.
Course Details
CROSS COUNTRY L1 FOUNDATION COACH (2 DAYS)
£140
The Cross Country Foundation Coach can be delivered on rollerskis or on snow and focuses on building the skills to delivers foundation skill sessions in a structured club or facility setting. The Foundation Coach typically works with beginner and novice skiers focusing on skill development and enjoyment.
The course is run by Snowsport Scotland tutors at club venues. Register your interest in attending a level 1 course here and check the SSS course calendar for any upcoming dates.
PRE-REQUISITES
Before attending a Foundation Coach course the aspirant coach should:
- Have registered as a coaching member with Snowsport Scotland
- Be comfortable on roller skis (or cross country skis).
- Be able to perform classic and skate techniques with good coordination and balance and with reasonable weight transfer.
- Be able to make descents and climbs of moderate slopes using appropriate techniques and with good balance.
- Be keen to work with novice skiers and to help others to learn and enjoy the sport
AWARD REQUIREMENTS
Before being awarded the Foundation Coach license the aspirant coach will need to:
- Hold a current 16 hour outdoor first aid certificate;
- Undertake a 3 hour child protection course
- After attending the training course gain a further 15 hours of coaching certified by the lead coach of their club or centre
- Be at least 16 years of age to attend the training course
COURSE OVERVIEW
An outline of the course content is available here.
CROSS COUNTRY L2 PERFORMANCE COACH (3 DAYS)
£210
The Cross Country Level 2 Performance Coach works will work within a club or centre environment. They will coach skiers who are beginners through to proficient skiers who may elect to tour for fun, health and fitness reasons or to compete. The Cross Country level 2 Performance Coach may also be the lead club coach and a further 1 day module is offered for this role.
The award can be taken on roller skis/track matting or on snow. If the award is gained on Rollerski candidates can be converted to a full on snow award with a one day on snow induction course and assessment.
The course is run by Snowsport Scotland tutors at club venues. Register your interest in attending a level 2 course here and check the SSS course calendar for any upcoming dates.
PRE-REQUISITES
Before attending a Cross Country L2 Performance Coach course the aspirant coach should:
- Be a registered member of the Snowsport Scotland coaching scheme;
- Hold a L1 award or equivalent approved prior learning (APL);
- Be a proficient cross-country skier on track skis or on roller skis (as appropriate). Both classic and free techniques should be efficient, flowing and rhythmical with weight-transfer allowing full glide on flat and climbing terrain with good balance. Downhill techniques should be appropriate to moderate slopes and the type of award undertaken and should show agility and control as required;
- Have an awareness of roller ski maintenance or snow ski preparation, including basic waxing for both grip and glide; and
AWARD REQUIREMENTS
Before being awarded the Cross Country L2 Performance Coach the aspirant coach should:
- Hold a current 16 hour outdoor first aid certificate;
- Attend a 3 hour child protection course;
- Hold a UK Anti-doping Coach Clean certificate;
- After attending the training course gain 30 hours experience in coaching certified by their lead coach; and
- Be at least 18 years of age before attending the training course.
COURSE OVERVIEW
An outline of the course content is available here.
Operating Environment and Remit
| Qualification | Environment Summary | Remit (Discipline Specific) |
| Cross Country L1 Roller Ski Foundation Coach | Off Road Artificial* – Areas such as car free roads, unused car parks, cycle lanes & artificial matting. | Working both supervised and unsupervised under direct management of a centre, an organisation, or a club coach, to deliver entry level sessions. |
| Cross Country L1 Snow Foundation Coach | UK on-piste novice environments* | Working both supervised and unsupervised under direct management of a centre, an organisation, or a club coach, to deliver entry level sessions. |
| Cross Country L2 Roller Ski Performance Coach | Controlled and Off Road Artificial Environments* – Areas such as car free roads, unused car parks, cycle lanes plus some quiet roads where appropriate additional safety measures can be ensured | Unsupervised delivery of performance coaching sessions for skiers who are beginners through to proficient skiers who may elect to be competitive or who may wish to race and tour for fun, health, and fitness. Sessions are under the management of a Centre, an organisation, or a club. Mentoring lower level coaches |
| Cross Country L2 Snow Performance Coach | Resort snow areas* – Easy access to cleared roads to well-known and used trails (although the trails may not have been machine pisted). | Unsupervised delivery of performance coaching sessions for skiers who are beginners through to proficient skiers who may elect to be competitive or who may wish to race and tour for fun, health, and fitness. Sessions are under the management of a Centre, an organisation, or a club. Mentoring lower level coaches |
| Cross Country L3 Senior Performance Coach | UK & International artificial environments and Resort snow areas**. | Lead a team of coaches and plan and implement an annual performance coaching programme. Working directly with club and academy performance trainees developing skills for competition (eg. British Championships & FIS Races). Mentoring lower level coaches. |
| Cross Country L4 National Performance Coach | UK & International artificial environments and Resort snow areas**. | Working with the National Team (Junior; U23; Continental; World Cup) Contribute to Snowsports development through their mentoring of less experienced coaches. |
* There should be Centre/Organisation/Club risk assessment for each area which shows the consideration for Novice skiers along with evacuation & first aid plans.
** Resort Snow areas plus skiing away from, but within a reasonable distance of prepared pistes, subject to risk assessment.
Qualification and Revalidation Process
| Qualification | Course Pre-requisites |
Training Course | Logbook | Technical and Delivery Assessment |
Other Credentials needed for Licensing | 3 year award revalidation requirements |
| Cross Country L1 Foundation Coach | NGB Coach Membership Pre-read course material |
2 days on snow or roller ski | Evidencing of supervised coaching experience and designated tasks signed off by head coach & verified by NGB | 1 day technical and delivery assessment conducted by appointed NGB tutor following logbook verification | First Aid Child Protection |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection Evidence of continual personal development |
| Cross Country L2 Club Coach | NGB Coach Membership L1 Foundation Coach Award or equivalent Pre-read course material |
3 days on snow or roller ski | Evidencing coaching experience and designated tasks signed off by head coach & verified by NGB | Continual technical and delivery assessment conducted during course with resulting pass or action plan | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection Evidence of continual personal development |
| Cross Country L3 Senior Performance Coach | NGB Coaching Membership L2 Club Coach Award or equivalent |
N/a | Evidencing 12 months of coaching experience and a comprehensive coaching portfolio, signed-off by signed-off by coaching panel | Continual technical and delivery assessment conducted during course with resulting pass or action plan | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection Evidence of continual personal development |
| Cross Country L4 National Performance Coach | NGB Coaching Membership L3 Senior Performance Coach Award or equivalent Already at minimum personal performance criteria |
N/a | Evidencing 12 months of coaching experience and a comprehensive coaching portfolio, signed-off by coaching panel | N/a | First Aid Child Protection Coach Clean from L2 |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection Evidence of continual personal development |
Equivalency and APL
If you already hold valid snowsports instructor qualifications, you can apply for them to be recognised as “Accredited Prior Learning” (APL) allowing you to either:-
- Gain exemption from attending certain levels of courses and be granted direct access to the higher level qualification training courses, OR
- Be recognised as trained to an equivalent level to one of the Nordic Performance Coaching Levels and be granted direct access to assessment, permitting you to be awarded a Snowsport Scotland qualification.
Applications for APL or equivalency should be submitted by this form.
All applications are dealt with on a case-by-case basis by the Nordic Coaching Panel. Each applicant will be contacted by email and asked for evidence of:-
- Valid current qualification certificates
- A portfolio of workplace experience
Please direct any questions to info@snowsportscotland.org
There are 4 levels of UK Snowsport Leader Award as follows:-
- L1 Club Piste Leader (CPL)
- L2 Sidecountry Snowsports Leader (SSL)
- L3 Backcountry Snowsports Leader (BSL)
- L4 Mountain Snowsports Leader (MSL)
L1 CLUB PISTE LEADER (CPL) – 1 day from £65
The club piste leader is designed to provide clubs with an accessible entry level piste leadership award that can offered to members of all ages.
The 1-day training course is designed to increase the level of piste safety knowledge and leadership skills amongst club members so they can support club activities under the direction of a L3 or higher qualified club head coach/instructor.
Note that whilst the Club Piste Leader (CPL) award licenses and insures qualification holders to lead groups, the remit does not include the delivery of any instruction or coaching.
Award holders must be aged 16 before they can lead a group independently however, the training is well suited as educational content for more junior club members, as it educates them on important aspects of on-piste safety and leadership and can inspire them to go on to look at further qualifications.
MINIMUM PERFORMANCE LEVEL: Whilst all club members are permitted to attend the training (recommended age 14 upwards), to be passed by the tutor candidates must meet the minimum technical performance standard and be proficient at:-
- Clean carved turns on blue runs in all piste conditions
- Controlled descents incorporating turns of varying radius, on red runs in all piste conditions.
LICENSING AND INSURANCE: Once trained and passed by the tutor, to be officially certificated and insured by Snowsport Scotland candidates must take a out a Volunteer SSS Coach/Leader/Instructor membership @ £25 per annum.
COST: The 1-day course costs £65 and includes assessment by the tutor. Please enquire with your club or local training centre or email info@snowsportscotland.org
L2 SIDECOUNTRY LEADER – 5 Days Training from £479
The Sidecountry leader qualification licenses candidates to lead parties, on and off-piste within a patrolled UK ski resort. All off-piste descents should be easily accessible from the lift and lead directly to mechanical uplift.
COURSE ATTENDANCE CRITERIA: To attend the course candidates must:-
- Already hold a valid on-snow L1 or higher instructor or coach qualification
- Ensure they are an up to date member of Snowsport Scotland (which provides them with requisite insurance).
- Be competent on black marked runs and off-piste terrain, able to ski or snowboard the fall line with flow, controlling line and speed in variable conditions.
- Ensure they have the necessary equipment
TRAINING & ASSESSMENT DAYS & COST:- Courses are run by a selection of Snowsport Scotland Training centres and prices start at:-
- 3 days Performance and Leadership Training from £280
- 2 days Assessment from £199
SYLLABUS: View and download the syllabus here
LICENSING: To become licensed candidates must:-
- Be at the required technical performance level
- Be aged 18 or older
- Have attended the training
- Have completed a logbook of 5 days of further off-piste skiing or snowboarding after the training course including one day shadowing a qualified leader.
- Have passed the online assessment test
- Have passed the practical 2 day assessment
- Hold first aid certificate
Courses are organised by accredited Snowsport Scotland Training centres and delivered by appointed SSS tutors. Enquire at your local centre or email info@snowsportscotland.org
L3 BACKCOUNTRY LEADER – 9 days from £1200
The Backcountry leader is licensed to lead snowsports groups on mountain journeys beyond the boundary of a patrolled UK ski resort. The award focuses around the use of skis, boards, skins and ski crampons for safe travel. It does not include terrain where technical equipment such as axe, crampons or rope may be in needed.
COURSE ATTENDANCE CRITERIA: Before attending the course candidates must:-
- Ensure that they have either completed the sidecountry leader qualification or applied for recognition of equivalent off-piste safety awards using the APL application form (see below).
- Be an up to date member of Snowsport Scotland (which provides them with requisite insurance).
- Hold the necessary backcountry equipment and be competent in the backcountry.
TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT DAYS & COST: All courses run at Glenmore Lodge and costs are as follows:-
- 6 days Performance and Leadership Training – from £875
- 3 days Assessment – from £325
LICENSING: To become licensed candidates must:-
- Be at the required technical performance level
- Be aged 18 or older
- Have attended the 6 days training
- Have completed a logbook of in field experience and shadowing
- Have passed the practical 3 day assessment
- Hold first aid certificate
Enquire at Glenmore Lodge or email info@snowsportscotland.org
L4 MOUNTAIN SNOWSPORTS LEADER – 9 days from £1200
The MSL is the highest level of UKSS leadership award and licenses candidates to both lead, support and instruct individuals and groups with the aim of empowering self-sufficient backcountry skiers and Snowboarders. The award includes terrain where technical equipment such as axe, crampons and rope may be needed.
COURSE ATTENDANCE CRITERIA: Before attending the course candidates must:-
- Ensure that they have either completed the backcountry leader qualification or applied for recognition of equivalent off-piste safety awards using the APL application form (see below).
- Be an up to date member of Snowsport Scotland (which provides them with requisite insurance).
- Hold the necessary equipment and be competent in mountain environment.
TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT DAYS & COST: All courses run at Glenmore Lodge and costs are as follows:-
- 6 days Performance and Leadership Training – from £875
- 3 days Assessment – from £325
LICENSING: To become licensed candidates must:-
-
- Be at the required technical performance level
- Be aged 18 or older
- Have attended the 6 days training
- Have completed a logbook of in field experience and shadowing
- Have passed the practical 3 day assessment
- Hold first aid certificate
Enquire at Glenmore Lodge or email info@snowsportscotland.org
ALREADY HOLD SOME MTN SAFETY QUALIFICATIONS?
If you already hold snowsports off-piste or mountain safety qualifications you may be eligible to for an exemption from doing the lower level off-piste awards and able to enter the pathway higher up. To apply for what is know as “Accredited Prior Learning” please see below.
Off-Piste Leader Qualification + Revalidation Process
| Qualification | Course Pre-requisites | Training Course | Logbook | Technical and Delivery Assessment | Other Credentials needed for Licensing | 3 year award revalidation requirements |
| Sidecountry Snowsports Leader | Current membership of NGB coaching scheme Hold a recognised piste based award that covers in resort leadership Pre-course learning and exercises |
Total of 3 days training in a side country environment incorporating: 2 days off-piste performance training + 1 day sidecountry leadership training | Evidencing a record of 10 quality sidecountry days (QSD) and 40 days on-piste experience days (OED) signed off by the tutor. | 2 day assessment in a UK sidecountry environment assessed by an appointed NGB tutor following logbook verification | First Aid Child Protection Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW Licensing The Lower level award |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW Licensing |
| Backcountry Snowsports Leader | Current membership of NGB coaching scheme Sidecountry leader award or equivalent Pre-course learning and exercises |
Total of 7 days training in a backcountry environment incorporating: 5 days of backcountry touring performance training course + 2 day backcountry leadership training course | Evidencing a record of 20 quality backcountry days (QBD) signed off by the tutor. additional 10 days leading off-piste (lift served) | 2 day assessment in a UK backcountry environment assessed by an appointed NGB tutor following logbook Verification | First Aid Child Protection Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW Licensing The Lower level award |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW Licensing |
| Mountain Snowsports Leader | Current membership of NGB coaching scheme Backcountry leader award or equivalent Pre-course learning and exercises. |
Total of 8 days training in a mountain environment incorporating: 6 days mountain performance training course + 2 days mountain leadership course | Evidencing a record of 20 quality mountain days (QMD) and an additional 10 days of steep descents signed off by the Evidence of 10 further QMDs and 10 Lead Ski tours. 10 steeper descents requiring ski and mountain techniques. | 2 day assessment in a UK mountain environment assessed by an appointed NGB tutor following logbook verification | First Aid Child Protection Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW Licensing The Lower level award |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection 15 CPD credits Enhanced DBS for SSE and SSW Licensing |
Off-Piste Leader Opportunities
Once you get onto the leadership pathway you have many options:-
- Stay at your qualification level, keep working and keep developing your skills and knowledge by attending regular Continued Professional Development Courses.
- Move to a higher level of leadership awards and then go on to attain your international awards and guiding qualifications.
Equivalency and APL
If you already hold valid qualifications, you can apply for them to be recognised as “Accredited Prior Learning” (APL) allowing you to either:-
- Gain exemption from attending certain levels of qualifications and be granted direct access to the higher level qualification training courses, OR
- Be recognised as trained to a certain level and be granted DIRECT ACCESS TO ASSESSMENT, permitting you to potentially be awarded a Snowsport Scotland qualification.
Applications for APL or equivalency should be submitted by this form.
All applications are dealt with on a case-by-case basis and examined by Glenmore Lodge tutors and Snowsport Scotland. Each applicant will be contacted by email and asked for evidence of:-
- Valid current qualification certificates
- A portfolio of workplace experience
Please direct any questions to info@snowsportscotland.org
ALPINE SKI OR SNOWBOARD LEADER
The Alpine Ski Leader and Snowboard Leader qualifications are designed for school teachers, group leaders and parents who wish to take a voluntary teaching and leading role with their own groups in an on-piste environment.
Note: The award does not license the individual to deliver paid instruction within a ski school or snowsports training organisation. It is strictly for non-remunerated voluntary leading and teaching. Holders of the award using it in a commercial capacity are operating outside the licensed remit and therefore render the license and insurance invalid.
As an ASL or SBL you will take a caretaking role of your pupils or regular group, ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and enjoyment of the participants throughout the session, supporting the learning, development and consolidation of their skills in an environment appropriate to the group’s ability level. The award covers group management, teaching up to basic parallel and leading on pisted runs.
If taking groups abroad, holders of the Alpine Ski and Snowboard Leader awards are strongly advised to firstly check the legality of use of their award in the country to which they are travelling. As a general rule, European law permits qualified school teachers to operate legally with their own pupils but note that local laws vary across Europe. In the first instance all ski trip organisers should check with local ski schools and slope operators for clarity on the legality of leading and teaching their own groups in that country or region.
- Alpine Ski Leader – 7 days training including continual assessment – £385
- Snowboard Leader – 6 days training including continual assessment – £385
For more information on the courses, qualification process and remit please see below.
Alpine Ski Leader Operating Environments + Remit
| Qualification | Environment | Remit |
| Alpine Ski and Snowboard Leader | Artificial and on-piste environments. Not off-piste. | The ASL and SBL are licenced to lead and manage the safety and development their own groups of pupils or regular trainees, on-piste within a patrolled ski resort.
The remit of the award DOES NOT PERMIT paid ski instruction or leading work or within a commercial ski school or training organisation. If taking groups abroad, school teachers and other holders of the Alpine Ski and Snowboard Leader awards are strongly advised to firstly check with local operators and authorities, the legality of working with their own groups in that resort. As a general rule, European law permits qualified school teachers to operate legally with their own pupils but please note that local laws can vary across Europe. |
Alpine Ski Leader Qualification + Revalidation Process
| Qualification | Course Pre-requisites | Training Course | Logbook | Technical and Delivery Assessment | Other Credentials needed for Licensing | 3 year award revalidation requirements |
| ASL + SBL | Current membership of NGB coaching scheme Pre-course reading as determined by the tutor |
7 days on snow | The ASL and SBL do not currently require a logbook of tasks to be completed after training for licensing | Continual assessment conducted by appointed NGB tutor during the training course. | First Aid Child Protection |
NGB Membership First Aid Child Protection Valid CPD |
Alpine Ski Leader Opportunities
Once qualified as an Alpine Ski or Snowboard Leader you have many options:-
- Stay at that qualification level, keep working and keep developing your skills and knowledge by attending regular Continued Professional Development Courses
- Attend the Ski or Snowboard Instructor training, get qualified and move into an instructor role and start working in a commercial ski school
- Move into a performance coach role working in a regular annual coaching programme training competitors and performance athletes in your chosen discipline
- Move into an international instructing qualification pathway with BASI or IASI to gain an International Ski Instructor Association (ISIA) award and work abroad.
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