I have joined the ski instructor programme level 1 & level 2 during the 2019-2020 winter. It was a wonderful winter and some of my happiest moments were during the internship.
The course was very well arranged, we had some intensive training in the first 2 weeks in December, and got our muscles up to speed for the level 1 exam. Then we had the opportunity to work through Christmas and New Year, to apply the knowledge and skills we learnt in real work, and gained experience in working with various clients. Then from January, we have our level 2 training alongside with work here and there until the exam. Day trips and training were part of the level 2 training as well, such as the Sapporo ice festival, powder day in Rusutsu and backcountry training.
The internship provides not only technical skills and knowledge on ski/snowboard instructing, but also the trainers and instructors we met at Niseko Academy, were also able to share their experience and insight in working as an instructor, as well as tips on navigating in various environments at niseko. It was a very work, social and training balanced winter. I made a lot of good friends, and met a lot of amazing people during the internship. My tip for anyone joining the programme would be, make sure you get onto the ski lift with Brian if you have a chance, or maybe a long drive. He has some best advise and stories to share!