The BASI Level 1 Exam

The BASI Level 1 exam is the entry-level qualification for people who are looking to become a ski instructor. It allows you to teach in snow domes and dry-slopes throughout the UK, and many other countries now recognise this as a qualification which allows you to work.

The BASI Level 1 Exam

The qualification is made up of several modules (all of which are included in our Residential BASI 1 and 2 courses);

• 4 Day Level 1 Exam: This on-snow examination will assess both your technical and teaching ability.
• 2 Day Outdoor First aid course (minimum of 12 hours).
• Safeguarding Children Module: An online safeguarding children module available through BASI.
• 35 Hours Ski School Experience. This must be completed after the BASI Level 1 exam.
• Criminal Record Disclosure.

Before you start your BASI Level 1 qualification, you should meet the following criteria as recommended by BASI

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• It is recommended that applicants have completed at least 16 full weeks of skiing.
• Confidently ski parallel, coping with a variety of conditions.
• Be able to ski parallel on red runs, making rhythmical short turns at a steady pace.
• Ski parallel long turns on a green or easy blue slope with the skis carving the last two-thirds of the turn.

The Exam Format

The exam itself is a 4 day continuous assessment. This means you’re not expected to be perfect throughout the week! The trainer will be looking for you to improve throughout the exam, and use their feedback to develop your own skiing. You’ll also be asked to run two teaching sessions during the week.

9am – 3/4pm, you’ll be on the snow learning and demonstrating, with a short break for lunch.

4pm – 5pm is classroom-based, meaning you’ll look at the provided course materials and BASI manual. This means focusing on teaching styles, ski terminology and breaking down the technical aspects of skiing. Video feedback sessions are also done in the evenings. The trainer will take video clips whilst you’re out on the slopes, so that once you’re back in the warmth of the chalet; you can see what you look like, and what you need to work on.

The Exam Criteria

The BASI Level 1 exam has three main aspects. Teaching, technical abilities and professionalism. These are assessed throughout the week.

Technical Assessment Criteria

• SkiCentral Theme – perform all aspects of the CT, as described in the BASI Alpine manual, clearly show definition between each aspect of the central theme and understand how to achieve effective posture and balance.
• Piste Short – round parallel turns demonstrated on a blue or easy red run.
• Piste Long – carved turns demonstrated on a green or easy blue run.
• Freestyle – ski switch safely on a green run or easy blue, showing parallel ski in traverse and smooth transitions.

Teaching Assessment Criteria

• Safety – maintain the safety of the group, and other slope users at all times.
• Delivery – ensure the session is enjoyable and delivered engagingly.
• Understanding – demonstrate the ability to deliver a session within the central Theme.

The off-snow sessions explain concepts such as the central theme, Fundamental Elements, and the TIED model, so you have all the tools you need to pass.

Professionalism Assessment Criteria

• Safety – demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Ski-Way Code and FIS regulations.
• Preparation – pre-course learning completed, course is attended with appropriate clothing and equipment.
• Communication – demonstrate respectful and inclusive communication and behaviour to others.
• Attitude – show a positive attitude and commitment to participation, and willingness to learn.
• Feedback – be open to change and feedback.
• Punctuality – turn up on time for all meeting points.

Re-assessment Criteria

As the exam assesses three separate strands (teaching, technical skiing and professionalism), it is possible to pass one and fail the other. In this case, you must take a 3-day resit within 2 years. This is to show you have reached the level. If you fail both strands, don’t worry, you’ll just need to take the exam again.

Our Top Tips!

• The BASI trainer will ask you to change aspects of your skiing, and they are looking for you to demonstrate those changes. Even if they feel weird, go with it and do your best. Changing your skiing always feels odd at first!
• Sometimes the BASI trainer will ask you to go beyond the above criteria – even if you reach the level, they will always do their best to improve your skiing. It’s a good thing!
• Do everything you can to improve your chances of passing. Maintain an active lifestyle prior to the course – they are long days and fitness makes a difference. Things like spending time studying the manual, planning your lessons and eating well go a long way too.

Now you know what you’re getting yourself in for, you can take a look at the different resorts where we run our Level 1 & 2 courses. Or, find out more about BASI (British Association of Snowsport Instructors) and their qualifications.

If you’re interested in one of our ski instructor training courses, sign up below to find the right course for you.