BASI Level 1 & 2 Gap Course FAQs

Who is the BASI Level 1 & 2 Gap Course suitable for?

This programme is designed for aspiring ski instructors looking to gain their first qualifications, improve their skiing and teaching skills, and work towards employment in the ski industry.

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Can I become a ski instructor with no teaching experience?

Yes. Many trainees join with no previous teaching experience. The programme is designed to develop both your skiing and your understanding of how to teach others effectively.

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How do I apply for the programme?

Complete our enquiry form and a member of the Pulse Snowsports team will contact you to discuss your skiing background, goals, course options and availability. We'll help determine whether the programme is the right fit for you before guiding you through the next steps

What skiing level do I need to join?

You should be comfortable skiing all red runs, be able to link parallel turns consistently, and have experience skiing a variety of terrain and snow conditions.

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How good at skiing do I need to be to become a ski instructor?

You do not need to be an expert skier to start your instructor journey. However, you should be a confident skier who is comfortable on red runs and keen to improve both technically and professionally.

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What qualifications can I achieve?

The programme is designed to support candidates working towards BASI Level 1 and BASI Level 2 qualifications through structured training, coaching and exam preparation.

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What is BASI Level 1?

BASI Level 1 is the first step on the BASI instructor pathway. It introduces the fundamentals of teaching skiing and allows instructors to assist with beginner lessons in specific environments.

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What is BASI Level 2?

BASI Level 2 develops your skiing and teaching skills further and is the qualification most instructors work towards before seeking employment opportunities around the world.

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What's the difference between BASI Level 1 and BASI Level 2?

Level 1 introduces the fundamentals of skiing and teaching skiing, while Level 2 develops a higher standard of skiing performance, teaching skills and professional competency.

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How long does it take to complete BASI Level 1 and Level 2?

This varies between candidates, but many trainees complete their Level 1 and Level 2pathway over the course of a winter season while continuing to develop their skiing and teaching skills.

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How many hours of training will I receive?

Participants typically receive over 180 hours of structured coaching, training and development throughout the programme.

What is included in the programme?

Training includes technical skiing development, teaching workshops, movement analysis, video feedback, exam preparation, performance coaching and ongoing support from experienced instructor trainers.

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Is video analysis included?

Yes. Video feedback is used throughout the season to help trainees better understand their skiing and monitor their progress.

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Do you provide movement analysis training?

Yes. Movement analysis is introduced throughout the programme and helps trainees develop a better understanding of skiing technique and coaching.

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Do you provide exam preparation?

Yes. The programme includes dedicated preparation for BASI assessments, helping candidates understand exam standards, expectations and performance requirements.

Will I receive individual coaching?

Yes. Despite the group environment, coaches provide personalised feedback and individual development goals throughout the season.

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How large are the training groups?

We keep training groups relatively small to maximise coaching quality, feedback and individual progression.

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Will I get real ski school experience?

Yes. One of the key benefits of training with Pulse Snowsports is the opportunity to gain insight into how a professional ski school operates and develop skills directly relevant to working in the industry.

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Can I shadow experienced instructors?

Yes. Where opportunities are available, trainees may observe experienced instructors to gain a better understanding of lesson delivery, customer service and ski school operations.

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Can I work as a ski instructor after BASI Level 1?

BASI Level 1 allows you to assist with beginner lessons in certain environments, but most instructors continue to BASI Level 2 before pursuing broader employment opportunities.

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Can I work as a ski instructor after BASI Level 2?

BASI Level 2 is the minimum qualification required for many ski instructor positions around the world and opens up a wide range of employment opportunities, subject to local regulations and work rights.

Is BASI recognised internationally?

Yes. BASI qualifications are widely respected throughout the ski industry and provide a pathway towards teaching opportunities in many international ski destinations.

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Can I work in Switzerland after BASI Level 2?

In many cases, yes. Employment opportunities in Switzerland depend on your nationality, work rights, language skills, local regulations and visa requirements. We are happy to discuss your individual circumstances.

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Can UK citizens join the programme?

Yes. We regularly welcome trainees from the United Kingdom and can provide guidance regarding available training options and visa considerations.

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Can international students join the course?

Yes. We regularly work with participants from the UK, Europe and further afield. Visa and work eligibility requirements vary depending on nationality and individual circumstances.

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Can non-EU citizens join the programme?

In many cases, yes. Eligibility depends on nationality, visa requirements and individual circumstances. Contact us to discuss your situation.

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What happens if I don't pass an assessment first time?

Many instructors require more than one attempt during their qualification journey. Your coaches will help identify development areas and create a structured plan for future success.

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How difficult are BASI assessments?

BASI assessments are designed to ensure instructors meet industry standards. With consistent training, coaching and preparation, most candidates make significant progress throughout the programme.

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Can I train and work at the same time?

Dependingon your qualifications, nationality and work eligibility, some trainees may be able to combine training with employment opportunities.

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Can you help with accomodation?

Yes. We can help you find accommodation, either in our staff and trainee accommodation or we can provide guidance and support to help trainees find their own housing during the season.

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Why choose Verbier for instructor training?

Verbier offers exceptional terrain variety, reliable snow conditions, a long winter season and access to one of Switzerland's largest ski areas. The diverse terrain provides an ideal environment for developing technical skiing and teaching skills.

Why train with Pulse Snowsports?

Pulse Snowsports combines structured instructor development with experienced BASI Level 4 coaches, small training groups, personalised feedback and insight into day-to-day operation of a professional ski school.

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Can you help me find work as a ski instructor?

While employment cannot be guaranteed, we provide guidance on career pathways, industry opportunities and the skills required to pursue work as a ski instructor after qualification.

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What support do I receive after completing the course?

We provide guidance on future training pathways, qualification progression and opportunities within the ski industry to help you continue your development as an instructor.

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Can I continue training after BASI Level 2?

Yes. Many instructors continue progressing through the BASI pathway towards Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications, opening further career opportunities and professional development.

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Is becoming a ski instructor a good career?

For those who enjoy skiing, coaching and working with people, ski instructing can be an incredibly rewarding career offering opportunities to work and travel in mountain resorts around the world.

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How much do ski instructors earn?

Earnings vary significantly depending on qualifications, experience, resort location, employment structure and the amount of work available. Higher qualifications generally lead to greater opportunities and earning potential.

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What are the next steps after enquiring?

A member of the Pulse Snowsports team will discuss your skiing background, goals, availability and aspirations before helping you choose the most suitable training pathway.

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BASI Level 1 & 2 Gap Course FAQs

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