Level 1
Ski
Instructor
Select a Course
Upcoming
Dates
A valid BASI membership (£89) is required to attend.
Where You'll
Train
Georgia's largest ski resort, high in the Greater Caucasus. Wide, treeless slopes and big open bowls give you every kind of terrain you need to train and be assessed — all in one place.
- Lifts up to 3,279 m on Mt. Sadzele
- 75–80 km of groomed runs — the longest over 7 km
- Open off-piste terrain right beside the pistes
The Foundation
Qualification
BASI Level 1 is the entry-level ski instructor qualification — your first official step into a career in snowsport instruction. It is designed for confident intermediate and advanced skiers who want to develop the skills to teach beginner groups on groomed terrain.
The course runs over four days and covers fundamental ski technique, introduction to teaching methodology, group management, and professional conduct. On completion you hold a BASI Level 1 certificate, recognised internationally and accredited by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework at Level 6.
Delivered in Gudauri by our certified BASI trainers, the course benefits from the resort's excellent groomed terrain, consistent snow conditions, and a focused, distraction-free learning environment.
Not included in course fee: Accommodation, lift pass, ski equipment rental, and BASI exam registration fee. We can arrange these — ask us when you enquire.
What You Need
Before You Start
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Skiing Ability — Parallel on Red RunsYou must be able to ski parallel on red runs with confidence and control. You do not need to be an expert — but the course is demanding and a strong recreational level is essential.
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Minimum Age: 16 YearsCandidates must be aged 16 or over at the time of the course. Under-18s will require parental consent.
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BASI MembershipYou must hold an active BASI membership before attending the course. We can guide you through registration when you enquire.
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Physical FitnessFour days of on-snow training is physically demanding. You should arrive in good cardiovascular condition and accustomed to a full day on skis.
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Outdoor First Aid CertificateA minimum 2-day Outdoor First Aid (OFA) or equivalent certificate is required. This must be valid for the duration of your training. We can advise on accepted qualifications.
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Travel & InsuranceValid travel and ski insurance with medical evacuation cover is required. Ensure your policy covers professional ski instructor training activities.
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Safeguarding Children ModuleAn online safeguarding module must be completed before attending. BASI provides access to this module through your membership portal — it takes approximately 2–3 hours.
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Pre-Course PreparationWe provide a pre-course briefing document covering the technical standards expected, reading materials, and advice on preparation. All candidates receive this on booking.
How You're Assessed
01 — Technical Skiing
Candidates are assessed on their own skiing across groomed blue and red terrain. The assessment focuses on five core technique elements: stance and balance, edge control, pressure management, rotational control, and line and speed.
You will be observed skiing a range of runs and demonstrating specific drills that form the BASI technical framework. The standard is not elite — it is consistent, controlled parallel skiing with clear technique that can be used as a demonstration for beginners.
02 — Teaching Practice
A structured beginner lesson delivered in full — from greeting, goal-setting, and warm-up through to progressions, feedback, and close. Assessed on lesson structure, use of the BASI teaching model, positioning, communication, demonstrations, and task-setting accuracy.
The standard expected is competency in guiding a complete beginner from first steps on snow to a basic parallel stop — using correct methodology throughout.
Pass Criteria
Both components — technical skiing and teaching — must be passed independently. A pass in one does not compensate for a fail in the other. Candidates who narrowly fail one component may be offered a reassessment at the discretion of the trainer.
Result & Feedback
Results are communicated on Day 4. Every candidate receives written trainer feedback covering both assessed components — detailed and actionable, whether you pass or are asked to return. Feedback is yours to keep and forms the basis of your development plan toward Level 2.