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From Enthusiast Skiers to Instructors: Maisie & Becky’s BASI journey

ski instructor basi 1 and 2 course in tignes

Read time: 4 mins

At New Generation, we believe the best way to inspire future ski instructors is by sharing real stories. A perfect example of passion turning into a profession is the inspiring journey of Maisie and Becky. These two skiers completed their BASI Level 1 and Level 2 instructor training with us in Tignes, turning their love for the mountains into a career.

Here’s what they had to say about their experience.

Why Tignes? Why New Generation?

Both came into the course with different motivations. 

For Maisie and Becky, skiing was more than just a holiday hobby—it was a lifelong passion. But turning that passion into a career required the right training, environment, and support.

Both enrolled in New Generation’s BASI Gap Course, a comprehensive ski instructor training program designed to fast-track aspiring instructors through the British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) Level 1 and 2 qualifications. They chose Tignes, one of the Alps’ most snow-sure resorts, as their training ground — a pivotal decision.

Tignes offers world-class terrain and snow conditions, making it an ideal location for both learning and performance. But it wasn’t just the landscape that made the experience — it was the group they had. 

“I really love working with kids. I love being in the mountains and I love skiing. I would be just ideal if I could find a way of making that happen. I was looking online and then the New Gen ski courses came up and I was like ‘yeah… that’s for me’” – says Becky.

“I chose Tignes because I skied there when I was younger and loved it. The snow is always amazing. Skiing is one of my favourite sports. I’ve been doing it since I was very little. I wanted to teach others about the sport I love”,  adds Maisie.

Coaching Quality and Tips

Becky and Maisie, credit much of their growth to the quality of the coaching.

“Davide was really good at communicating and he gave effective feedback which you could understand and then you could fix”, explains Maisie.

So what was the course really like?

“It was always quite intense, but it was really well managed by our trainer Davide. He was really good at keeping the pressure on, making sure that we always had a goal, something that we could improve on,” adds Becky.

BASI level 1 & 2 Tignes New Generation training course

Memorable Moments

No one does it alone — and for Becky and Maisie, the camaraderie made the experience unforgettable.

“I was really lucky with the group that I had and we had a really nice mix of ages and personalities”, says Becky.

BASI level 1 & 2 New Generation course having food together

“We watched skiing films and it felt like the most positive leaning environment where you could learn”, explains Maisie.

“One of my most memorable experiences was on Christmas day. We had training in the morning and were shadowing our coach. He sent us a message indicating a difficulty level of XXX before taking us up Grattalu. We removed our skis, put on our avalanche packs, and began downclimbing the mountain. After that, we traversed and climbed up the back to access this couloir. We captured some of the best pictures and videos at the top, with the sun setting in the distance. The descent down the couloir was amazing, with a fresh layer of powder. That was probably the most unforgettable Christmas day I will ever have,” remembers Becky.

BASI level 1 & 2 students making gnocchi

Here’s what stood out in their journey:

Location: Tignes

Set in the heart of the French Alps, Tignes offered varied terrain and reliable snow, making it the perfect training ground for aspiring instructors.

BASI Level 1 & 2

Over the course of the season, Becky and Maisie completed both BASI qualifications, gaining not only technical proficiency but also confidence in their ability to teach skiing effectively.

Real Community

From training days and practice teaching to social events and powder days, the students became friends.

Pathway to Work

After qualifying, Becky and Maisie are considering becoming full-time ski instructors and pursuing their BASI Level 3 certification. Becky has begun applying for jobs in New Zealand and Australia, while Maisie plans to apply for a position at an indoor ski slope.

Advice for Future Trainees

Becky reflects on her experience, acknowledging that although it felt challenging, she has successfully completed weeks of skiing. Now, as she considers applying for a new opportunity, she realises that she is capable of tackling it because she has already completed this course. Therefore, the next challenge will not seem as daunting.

“My confidence as a skier and as a person has improved. I truly feel like I belong on the slopes now and that I can accomplish anything”, she adds.

“I would say one hundred percent do it. I’m glad I did it”, says Maisie.

Ready to Start Your Own Ski Instructor Training Journey?

Whether you’re taking a gap year, or considering a career change, our BASI ski instructor courses offer more than just training — they provide a unique training pathway.

Explore our BASI Level 1 & 2 programs here, and see where your skis can take you or get in touch with our team

Watch their full testimonial here: 

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