Ski instructor FAQ
Why did you train as a children's ski instructor?
I trained as a children's ski instructor at Hauser Kaibling in 2019 through the Styrian Ski Instructors' Association. As I'm from the region myself, working in winter tourism just seemed like a good fit. During the Easter holidays, I did the 10-day training course directly at Hauser Kaibling. I usually work during the holidays to earn some extra money alongside my studies.
What do you particularly like about your work as a ski instructor?
There are many aspects that speak in favour of working in a ski school, but what I like best is that you are constantly on the move and in the fresh air. As I'm a sporty person, active work on the mountain is just right for me. When there are bright blue skies and great piste conditions, it doesn't feel like work at all! I also really like the fact that no two days on the mountain are the same: sometimes you get guests for private lessons, then you're back in the childrens area or out on the mountain with a group.
What has been your best experience so far?
This season in December, I had two young brothers on the course who had skied before but wanted to improve their technique after a long break. One of the brothers was very anxious and unsure at first. I almost had to hold him by both shoulders and give him support so that he wasn't afraid of the slope. The ability was there, but he wasn't ready yet. After a few exercises, he skied down the slope again full of joy and completed the course flawlessly. For me, moments like these are the best, when you can see the students' progress and celebrate with them. A successful course is when the students achieve what they set out to do and even go beyond that.
What is it like working at your ski school?
I work at the Haus im Ennstal ski and snowboard school. You can imagine a ski school as a large community: you help each other and stick together like a family. If a ski school child falls on the mountain, the ski instructors always help each other. Whether it's motivating each other or comforting children who are homesick. What I also love about being a ski instructor is the fun, relaxed atmosphere and yet the constant reassurance that you can rely on all your colleagues. There are also always activities that we do together - in winter as well as in summer.
What are your future plans for ski lessons?
Personally, I would still like to work on the slopes during the holidays. I'm already registered for the next ski instructor course, the Alpine course. It would also be conceivable to complete the LS2 course, i.e. the national ski instructor two. I would also like to work in a foreign ski resort for a season. My mum used to be a ski instructor and taught in Japan for six months. That would be my personal ski instructor dream!
