To any avid skier/snowboarder, 13 weeks of training to be a ski instructor sounds like a dream. But it can sometimes be hard to get your parents on board as they can often say things like “I don't like the idea of my child leaving home.”
For many parents, the thought of their child skiing every day for three months triggers visions of twisted knees and plaster casts.
So we thought it would be good to speak to Debbie (whose daughter was on SnowSkool Banff last year) about a parent’s perspective. “My daughter did all her own research and was super keen to join SnowSkool in Banff for part of her gap year. I fully trusted her but wanted to make my own judgement. Steve from SnowSkool answered all my questions and really reassured me that they were reputable and trustworthy. I knew my daughter would be in good hands, with tuition every day and proper supervision. She wasn’t just left to her own devices. By the end of the call, I was convinced—it was an excellent opportunity for her.”
Preparing to Let Go
SnowSkool has been running instructor courses since 2003, and their experience shows—not only in the on-snow training, but in the “structure they provide for parents sending their children abroad.”
From insurance recommendations to comprehensive kit lists, the logistics felt manageable for Debbie and her daughter. “Because SnowSkool’s course packages cover accommodation, breakfast and dinner during the week, lift passes, and daily tuition, the financial planning was straightforward. We really only had to think about her spending money. Most of the cost was paid up front, so there wasn’t much else to worry about.”
But, there’s no denying that enrolling in a ski or snowboard instructor course is a big investment. To make it more affordable, SnowSkool offers the option to spread the cost over time with an interest-free instalment plan. By booking 12–18 months in advance, you can divide the total into smaller payments, which can be especially helpful if your son or daughter is earning money or saving up before they go.
For more about paying for a ski or snowboard instructor course see this post on how to pay for a course more easily.
Staying Connected from Across the World
When asked how Debbie stayed connected to her daughter she said: “letting go didn’t mean losing touch. With an eSIM in her phone, she was able to send photos, videos, and updates almost daily.”
“I loved seeing her progress.”
The Transformation That Comes from the Mountains
Over the 11–13 weeks of a SnowSkool course, students live, train, and socialise with like-minded people from all over the world. They develop independence, time management, confidence, and—of course—technical skill.
When I asked Debbie if she had noticed any changes in her daughter, she didn’t hesitate to say, “her confidence has grown massively. She’s made excellent friends, achieved a qualification, and had an amazing time.”
Why This Parent Says “Go For It”
Asked whether the financial and emotional investment was worth it, Debbie says, “definitely. This is a really good use of three months during a gap year—to acquire a skill, experience a new country, and have a great time.”
Debbie’s advice for parents still on the fence? “You have to let go sometime. This is a much better way to do it—on a well-organised course, with clean accommodation, good food, and professional training. It’s worth the money.”
SnowSkool’s courses aren’t just about turning a passion for skiing or snowboarding into a career. They’re about personal growth, independence, and unforgettable experiences. For both the student and the parent, the rewards stretch far beyond the slopes.
Find out more about our industry-leading courses here:
Alternatively, give us a call or send an email to [email protected] to chat.