Alpine Skiing
This is a six day course taking place in the French Alps offering teaching for all levels of skier. Enjoying snow at high altitude in the Alps and offering glacier skiing the course usually takes place in either Val Thorens or Tignes in mid December or late March. In these two premier resorts we stay in self catering apartments offering skiing from the door so we don't waste any time on travel each day and can maximise time on the piste. Both resorts are situated in the heart of the French Alps providing stunning views of this mountain range including views of Mont Blanc (Europe's highest mountain).
These resorts offer a variety of terrain suitable for all levels allowing everyone to develop their alpine skiing skills and to explore the high altitude environment. The resorts enable us to work in conditions which enhance learning and offer a choice of terrain for perfecting techniques from snow ploughs through to high speed carving on mixed terrain.
'Both in terms of personal development and skill acquisition, the ski trip to Tignes '08 was one of the most beneficial and worthwhile weeks of the entire course. An absolute must do. Loads of fun, sun and brilliant runs!'
—Student, March 2008
Students are split into groups based on experience/ability and are taught by University staff throughout the week. Depending on skills, confidence and weather conditions the week may involve a journey to other resorts. Students also learn about navigating around the mountain, the historical development of skiing [techniques], ski equipment and ways of developing their skills in the future. We use digital video analysis to give instant feedback both during the day and during evening sessions.
'The course included great technical and coaching ability. Lessons were tailored to our specific needs/learning styles and taught me so much about coaching, teaching and skiing.'
—Student, March 2008
Students also have opportunities to learn about the natural history of the area and discuss many of the environmental issues associated with alpine skiing. Set in the picturesque Alps, there are also opportunities to learn about French culture, enjoy local cuisine and explore the fabulous natural environment.
'I could not recommend this course highly enough. The coaching and instruction was of the highest quality and I was left feeling both exhausted and exhilarated but most importantly do not believe I could possibly have learned more in the course of a weeks skiing. Thank you!'
—Student, March 2008
You can see some photos from our skiing trips to Tignes and Val Thorens in our gallery, and also some footage from our 2007 and 2008 ski trips to Tignes in the French Alps.
'The Alpine Skiing week, and the Alpine Ski Leader course in particular, was the highlight of my year on the Postgraduate Diploma programme. The course was delivered to a very high standard and allowed me to develop my skiing in ways that I had not previously thought possible. I and my fellow students were introduced to various aspects of the theory and practice of sports coaching and found elements of the Postgraduate Diploma courses that we had previously undertaken falling into place: aspects of professional practice, personal development, risk and safety management, landscape interpretation as well as a range of ecological and ethical issues were all drawn together.
'Teaching and learning occurred symbiotically and we discovered a smooth transition from theory to practice. Ironically, the Alpine Skiing module is not compulsory but I would not hesitate to recommend it to all students who are keen to develop their skiing and experience an integrated outdoor learning adventure. Furthermore, I would recommend that any advanced skier give serious consideration to enrolling on the Alpine Ski Leader course.'
—Student, 2008
