International Academy : Case Study

Tom Barnard (DOB: 18/4/84)

"After leaving Brighton, Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College I decided to embark upon an adventurous gap year as I wanted a break from studying before heading to Oxford Brookes University and needed something that would help me relax after my A levels.

I had always wanted to become a ski instructor and so signed up for a 12 week ski instructor training course with The International Academy. As the course took place in Lake Louise, Canada, I thought it would be a great way to escape the weather here in England and sample some invigorating mountain air!

Taking the all inclusive course meant that there were no worries about accommodation, food, flights, visas, passes or training as all of these were arranged for me by the company.The Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance course lasted for 3 months - which proved to be the most fantastic of my life! There were so many highlights, it's hard to pick the best - probably top of the list were the unlimited skiing all day every day in the spectacular Canadian Rockies and meeting some great new friends.

The instruction received over the duration was definitely world class. The tuition methods helped get results, enabling us to improve our skiing, so much so that everyone on the course was put forward for not just the level 1 but the level 2 CSIA exam also. The instructors were funny, helpful and definitely put you at ease throughout.

My skiing really improved more than I could have imagined.

I stayed in Banff for the duration which offered just about everything you could possibly need from a ski resort; friendly locals, great restaurants, stylish bars and plenty of leisure activities when you take a break from skiing!

All in all, the course provided me with a great opportunity to have a break before university and enjoy a paid ski season whilst it allowed many others the chance to change their career. What a fantastic experience!"