New Zealand Certificate in Introductory Snowschool Instruction (Applied) (Level 4) (Ski) or (Snowboard)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain hands-on ski or snowboard instructor training in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, earning a Level 4 certificate and industry accreditation for teaching beginners in a snowschool environment.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Wānaka, Wānaka
It will take a total of 17 weeks
This course requires 40 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Teach or assist beginner skiers or snowboarders
Graduates can provide snowschool instruction to entry-level learners, working as instructors or teaching assistants.
Fundamental teaching skills in snowsport
Understand and apply key principles of beginner snowsport teaching in a professional setting.
Work experientially in a snowschool
Gain relevant work experience, including supervised on-snow learning and classroom-based preparation.
What You're Signing Up For
This 17-week, full-time qualification delivers practical skill development in ski or snowboard instruction, with classroom and on-snow learning at Cardrona Alpine Resort. You will gain an entry-level professional snowsport teaching qualification while working in a real snowschool environment, supported by leading trainers. The programme covers the fundamentals of snowsport teaching, industry induction, and prepares you for NZSIA (Ski) or SBINZ (Snowboard) Level 1 industry awards. Graduates are equipped to independently teach or assist beginner snowsport students.
Course Content
- Snowsport Instructing & Snowsport Industry Induction: Fundamentals of teaching, snowsport environment, industry concepts.
- Instructing Beginner Snowsport (Ski or Snowboard): Shadowing lessons, on-snow work-based learning, preparation for NZSIA/SBINZ Level 1 award.
- Snowsport Instructing within a Professional Snowsport School: Advanced practical experience, independent teaching skills for a range of beginners.
- Self-directed online learning and classroom sessions.
- Work-based learning at Cardrona Alpine Resort.
What you need to know first
Demonstrate personal competence on skis or snowboard on groomed blue terrain.
Submit a logbook of outdoor/ski/snowboard experience and any formal instruction.
Complete a conviction declaration.
Two references attesting to good character and suitability.
Interview.
English language requirements: New Zealand University Entrance OR IELTS 5.5 (academic) with no band below 5.0 OR equivalent evidence.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Sport and Recreation
Tourism
Education
Snowsports industry
Future employment opportunities might be
Entry-level snowsport instructor (ski or snowboard) within snowschools/domestic or international ski resorts.
Snowschool teaching assistant.
Progression into advanced instructor positions or further snowsport teaching roles.
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.