Here at Vivid snowboarding we will be running a couple of BASI Snowboard level one course's this winter. Why not join us for some training sessions and learn how to not only master the basics but actually be able to teach friends, family and anyone who is keen to learn.

The snowboard level one course consists of a 5 day on snow exam, child protection in sport and leisure module, 35 hours Snowsports school experience and a 2 day first aid course.

Here is a list of Pre-requisites to join the course:

Be able to ride a slope with confidence being able to adapt and stay in control and balanced when conditions vary.
Be able to cruise down a red run with some style
Ride your board switch on mellow terrain
Create a carve with your board on an easy slope. Does not have to be perfect but you need to be able to find grip
Perform basic freestyle manoeuvres on flattish terrain. These should include the nose and tail press, ollies and nollies and frontside and backside 180's
Minimum of 16 years old.

Once you feel confident enough to step up to the exam it is a fun, progressive week of snowboarding. I can remember taking my level one back in the late 90's and gaining a lot in relation to slowing my riding down and actually thinking about how I stand on the board and how I actually steer the board. I felt the week was like an intensive and fun snowboard lesson which transformed my riding and knowledge.

Below is a list of some of the technical skills you will be assessed on:

Perform all phases of the central theme which is your basic lesson progression.
Show good posture and balance through out your riding.
Do this in regular and switch stance
Nose and tail press
Ollies and Nollies
Backside and frontside 180
Butter the board and link tricks
Cleanly carve the last two thirds of the turn on a green or easy blue

Have a good understanding of the central theme and be able to perform this. Always have good posture and balance through out. This leads into having an understanding and awareness beyond the central theme, particularly around piste performance.

A key skill of any instructor is being able to identify and evaluate major faults and provide effective feedback and inputs into the riding.

As an instructor we have to understand the learning process. We have to have a basic understanding of the TIED model ( Task, Information, Evaluate and Develop)

You will need a basic understanding of the skill acquisition model which breaks down to awareness, practise and acquired levels. You will need to be aware of different teaching styles and goal setting skills.

When looking at how to deliver a session we focus a lot on safety. This is has to be present throughout a session. Think about group management and where best to stop and talk to a group. Always using the FIS regulation. Safety is everything!!

When delivering a session you have to make sure that everyone is involved. This is sometimes harder with a bigger group but Maximum class activity is essential. Always ask questions so the learner is gaining knowledge. Always be clear and concise with instructions.

Learning to give feedback is also very important. This has to be supportive and positive. Give feedback that relates to the task. Develop how the TIED model works. Structure sessions so they flow and have a clear story line. A start, middle and end.

The key is to not get too lost with all the new words and terms. The key is to get out and enjoy the process of learning and how it will have such a positive impact on your riding level.

Vivid Snowboarding has a huge amount of experience in the instructor training world. You can check what we offer here VIVID

Snowboard Level One Course