Train & Work in Nendaz

If there is one place that is recognized for its magical mountains and skiing culture, it would be Switzerland. It’s no coincidence that skiers from all over the world have this unique Alp country on the top of their bucket list and now you have the chance to make this your winter-wonderland on a course in Nendaz!

We are proud to present a unique winter season, where you combine work and play on our English spoken 12 week level 3 ski instructor training program in Haute-Nendaz. You will live in Nendaz, which lays right in the heart of the world-renowned 4 Vallées ski resort, one of Switzerland’s biggest ski resorts offering some of the best and most varied terrain in the world.

A WINTER IN LES 4 VALLÉES

From the beginning of February, you will participate in 12 weeks of level 3 ski instructor training, which is designed for level 2 candidates in any system to train towards their level 3 exams and ISIA stamp modules. The training is run in low season weeks to maximise the quieter periods in the resort. This programme is specifically designed for those who do not have the right to work in Europe or Switzerland but would like to continue their training and hoping to gain further qualifications.

As a part of the course, you will receive a full season lift pass, accommodation for the entire winter and around 200 hours of training (170 hours on snow/30hrs off) and much more. With comfort in our highly experienced trainers from Sommet et Neige, we guarantee that this will be your life’s most developing ski experience packed with high fives and fun!

THE INSTRUCTOR LIFE

For good reason, Switzerland is one of the most desired ski destinations for both new and experienced ski instructors. The Swiss Alps offer some of the best skiing in the world, both on the slope, and off-piste. This is specifically evident in the 4 Vallées ski resort, which is known for its amazing off-piste terrain. It is not a coincidence that it has hosted the Freeride World Tour finals for years! 

During the season, you will be accommodated with fellow Snowminders in shared 6-person apartments with kitchen facilities in the village of Nendaz. Nendaz is a lively ski village with a great ski instructor community. The instructors typically meet up at a few local spots in the resort and on days off there are often a few of them exploring the resort together. 

WHAT DO YOU GET FROM SNOWMINDS?

We’ve created a holistic winter experience from February to April, where you will train towards your level 3 certificate with the opportunity to explore the ski instructor life in Nendaz.

Benefits of the 12 week level 3 ski training course package:

• 12 weeks shared accommodation in the village of Nendaz (February 6th to April 16th, 2023)
• Arranged season lift pass for the 4 Valleys *
• Snowminds Team Leader during the entire season
• Approx. 200 hours of ski training (170 hours on snow/30hrs off)
• Technical and theoretical training towards ISIA stamp modules
• Pre-season fitness program
• Ski specific fitness program throughout winter
• CV and careers advice workshops
• Ski servicing workshops
• Pro-deals at resort-based partner shop and Snowminds Store
• Social team events during the season in Nendaz
• Kick-off event in September 2022 with group team building etc.
• Preparation guidance and tips regarding packing, insurance, visa, etc., before, during, and after the season
• Travel protection with Snowminds Money Back Guarantee

What is not included?

• Transportation to/from Nendaz, Switzerland**
• Cancellation & travel insurance
• Any permit fees, health insurance or tourist tax
• All meals and anything else not mentioned above

As a Snowminds trademark, we take care of all the practicalities and coordinate with our professional partners in Switzerland to provide you with a life-long experience that we are known for!

*A season lift pass can be bought through us for 415 EUR until November 20th 2022. There is a 200 EUR surcharge on the lift ticket for people born before 1998 and/or from December on.

**We are happy to assist with recommendations to booking airline tickets and airport transfers to your final destination. Please reach out to us ANYTIME if you are interested.

Season planning

Our Nendaz level 3 instructor training program is perfectly designed for those looking to take a gap year, a career break/change as well as those wanting professional training to improve their skiing and take it to the next level in the 4 Vallées, some of the best and most varied terrain in the Alps. 

 It’s also a great alternative option to a full season if you’re looking to stay in the Alps for 2.5/3 months and spend Christmas and New Year with family and friends at home before your experience.

If you are not an EU passport holder or not eligible to stay in Switzerland for long stays, this is the perfect course for you, keeping your stay under 90 days and still getting the full instructor experience!

The weekly schedule can vary a lot. Usually during weekdays you’ll train for a few hours in the morning and in the afternoon. After skiing activities include theory lessons, fitness sessions or game nights. Over the weekend, you are usually having days off for free-skiing or just relaxing.

WHO CAN APPLY?

At Snowminds we pride ourselves in selecting the right people for our team of ski- and snowboard instructors. We are renowned amongst the ski schools for educating competent, energetic and top motivated instructors. The most important thing for you is to be positive, outgoing, adventurous, and ready to work hard to get the memory of a lifetime as a part of the Snowminds team.

What we expect from you:

• You have obtained your level 2 or higher qualification in any organisation
• You are positive, outgoing, and adventurous
• You are serious, responsible, and top motivated
• You enjoy teaching and love being challenged  
• You are driven to become a higher qualified instructor
• You speak English at a conversational level
• You are 18 years or above  

When you have sent your application, we will give you a call to discuss your course choice and hear more about your motivation and skiing background.

We receive a lot of applications for our courses and the spots fill up quickly. Therefore we have a “first come, first serve” principle with an application deadline each month. This means that the earlier you apply, the greater your chances are of joining the team and getting a spot at your dream destination.

Further information about course dates and prices can be found below, where you can also hit the button to apply now.