No matter what instructor level you are training for, we always recommend shadowing one of the PEAK team, it adds to delivering the lightbulb you’ve been waiting for.

Shadowing a seasoned ski instructor is a crucial aspect of training for aspiring instructors. It provides valuable real-world experience that complements theoretical knowledge and personal skiing skills. Here are the key reasons why shadowing is important:

Practical Teaching Experience

1. Observation of Teaching Techniques:

By observing a seasoned instructor, you can see effective teaching techniques in action. This includes how to introduce new concepts, break down complex movements, and adjust lessons based on learners' progress.

2. Classroom Management:

Shadowing provides insights into managing a group of learners, maintaining their attention, and ensuring safety on the slopes. You'll learn how to handle different dynamics and keep the class engaged and motivated.

Real-Time Problem Solving

3. Handling Various Skill Levels:

You’ll encounter learners of different ages and skill levels within reason. Watching an experienced instructor adapt their approach for beginners versus more advanced students teaches adaptability and personalised instruction.

4. Dealing with Challenges:

Witnessing how to address common challenges, such as fear, frustration, or physical limitations, prepares you to manage these situations effectively in your own lessons.

Communication Skills

5. Effective Communication:

Good instructors are excellent communicators. Observing how they explain and show techniques, provide feedback, and motivate learners helps you develop your own communication style.

6. Non-Verbal Cues:

You’ll also learn to read non-verbal cues from students, which is essential for understanding their comfort level and adjusting your teaching methods accordingly.

Safety and Risk Management

7. Safety Protocols:

Ensuring safety on the slopes is paramount. Shadowing allows you to learn and implement best practices for managing risk and responding to emergencies.

8. Identifying Hazards:

An experienced instructor can teach you how to identify potential hazards in the environment like terrain changes, other skiers, machinery and how to mitigate these risks effectively.

Building Confidence and Competence

9. Confidence Building:

Seeing a seasoned instructor handle various situations with confidence helps build your own confidence. Knowing you have a solid role model to emulate can make you more assured in your teaching abilities.

10. Competence Through Repetition:

Repeated exposure to effective teaching methods and student interactions helps reinforce your competence. You’ll start recognising patterns and best practices, making you a more competent instructor.

Networking and Mentorship

11. Professional Networking:

Shadowing is an excellent opportunity to build professional relationships. The seasoned instructor can become a mentor, providing guidance and support as you progress in your career.

12. Learning the Culture:

Being part of a professional environment helps you understand the culture and expectations of ski instruction. You’ll learn the standards of professionalism and customer service that are crucial for success.

Real-World Insights

13. Adapting to Real-World Conditions:

Skiing conditions can vary widely. Watching an experienced instructor adapt lessons to different weather, snow conditions, and terrain teaches you flexibility and resilience.

14. Immediate Feedback:

Real-time feedback from the instructor you are shadowing allows you to deepen your performance analysis, accelerating your learning curve.

By shadowing a seasoned ski instructor, you gain a comprehensive, practical understanding of what it takes to teach effectively in real-world scenarios. This experience is invaluable in preparing you to become a skilled, adaptable, and confident ski instructor.