GAP SKI INSTRUCTOR PROGRAM 2008 GAP Ski Instructor Course Review
Adam Thomas, 24
CornwallIn February 2007 I went on my first ski holiday. I loved it so much that 13 months later, after a lot of soul searching and determination, not to mention a lot of training from Warren and his Academy team, I became a bona fide ski instructor with a shiny red and white uniform to prove it. I left behind a job in the city and a place to study for a masters degree and followed my passion in life: being out in the mountains; climbing up them as well as skiing down them!
I wanted to do the GAP course in order to learn how to ski anywhere on the mountain and to gain a qualification that would let me work all over the world in a fun and rewarding job.
will be available soon
The first thing that impressed me about Warren and the GAP course was that he didn't hang up the phone when I told him I'd skied for 8 days and now wanted to be an instructor! Before coming on the course I did an Academy course in Saas Fee, during the week my skiing was utterly transformed and I saw how committed Warren and his coaches were to helping skiers of all levels and backgrounds. Moreover, it was a great laugh and the team created a fantastic, friendly atmosphere for learning and getting to know everyone. I was sure I'd found the right instructor course.
The GAP program itself was demanding; cramming two BASI exams, first aid training, an avalanche safety course and loads of top quality coaching into 9 weeks is no mean feat and days off were scarce. However, as well as being amazing skiers, the guys are fantastic coaches. They will give you the technical input to improve your skiing and teaching but also know how to get the best out of you at every point of the course and keep you smiling. Whether you're battling 'ankle flex', 'a frames', arm carriage, sleep deprivation or last nights hangover they'll help you succeed.
Off the slopes there is as much Apres action as you can handle and once you've been dancing on a bar, looking up at the stars and having free shots poured down your throat whilst a live band bangs out your favourite tunes other bars just don't quite seem to cut it! Of course there is a wide range of bars and restaurants in town so regardless what mood you're in there's something to suit.
The greatest thing about the course is undoubtedly the people you meet and get to ski (and drink!) with every day. You'll have some legendary nights out with your fellow 'gappies' and when it comes to exams and teaching sessions its invaluable to be surrounded by friends who can pull together and get everyone through. We achieved a 100% pass rate this year which was awesome and the relief and joy I felt upon passing was equalled by happiness at seeing everyone else succeed as well.
The final highlight of the course was the excellent link with the Ecole de Suisse de Ski who offered everyone work after the exams which helps pay the bar bills but more importantly gives you a chance to put your new skills into practice and share your passion for the sport. Seeing the smiles and joy of your clients after they've learnt something new or made it to the bottom of a slope they'd never imagined possible is definitely the best reward I've got for any job.
I've had a fantastic season in Verbier. Skiing all day with your mates before rocking up for a beer on the hill while the sun dips behind the trees is going to be hard to replace. I'm sure I won't be able to stay away for long. Do it. You'll never look back!
In Association With :
Site Design & Photography:
www.melodysky.com
