Here is a guide to different abilities so you can see how we might classify you. If you are unsure of your ability do not worry. Your instructor will always work out where you are at, and what you are hoping to achieve. They will then tailor the lesson to your needs.
SKIING
Level – First Timer
Ability – No experience
The Lesson – Safety, the mountain environment and equipment. Stance and balance. Speed control and shallow turns. Have fun skiing.
Level – Beginner
Ability – Can control speed with a wedge and make shallow turns
The Lesson – Improve the turn so you can use it to control your speed. Reduce the size of the wedge.
Level – Novice
Ability – Have ridden a chairlift. Can use the turn to control speed and ski a beginner run safely.
The Lesson – Reduce the size of the wedge. Match skis to parallel at the finish of each turn. Increase confidence and enjoyment.
Level – Intermediate
Ability – Can bring your skis to parallel towards the end of each turn.
The Lesson – Learn to match skis to parallel earlier in the turn. Adapt techniques to explore more slopes.
Level – Intermediate
Ability – Skis are parallel for most of the turn. Can ski blue runs with a smile.
The Lesson – Remove any trace of the wedge to ski parallel at all times. Learn to use your poles. Looking cool.
Level – Advanced
Ability – Ski parallel all over the mountain
The Lesson – Different turn shapes. Carving. Learning to adapt your style to the snow and slope conditions.
Level – Expert
Ability – Can make the ski perform. Comfortable on most slopes on the mountain.
The Lesson – Fine-tuning technique, timing and precision to ensure you look dynamic and awesome at all times.
SNOWBOARDING
Level – First Timer
Ability – No experience
The Lesson – Safety, the mountain environment and equipment. Stance and balance. Slipping sideways down a slope.
Level – Beginner
Ability – Can balance on a slope and slide sideways on either edge.
The Lesson – Traversing across the slope and learning to turn. Practice.
Level – Novice
Ability – Can link turn on easy slopes.
The Lesson – Adapting techniques and turn shape to deal with different slopes and speeds.
Level – Intermediate
Ability – Can turn with ease on either edge on various slopes.
The Lesson – Basic carved turns and fine-tuning techniques to improve performance.
Level – Advanced
Ability – Can carve turns and ride most slopes on the mountain.
The Lesson – Improve the carve turn and board performance. Off-piste and tactics for different slopes types and snow conditions.
Level – Expert
Ability – Happy on all slopes and most conditions.
The Lesson – All round riding performance for complete versatility.