This popular programme is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills and attributes required to enter the Ski Patrol industry. It is held in high regard by the Heads of Ski patrol within New Zealand and includes a four week placement for students with a real ski patrol department. This is where students compound the skills learnt with their tutors and is probably one of the longest and most fun filled job interviews ever. The programme has successfully run since 1995 and past students have reached senior, supervisory and heads of department positions within New Zealand Ski patrols. The programme also provides a strong foundation for related careers in the outdoors, including alpine and ski guiding, a variety of summer guiding and/or instruction, ambulance officer, and safety management. It contains both Pre- Hospital Emergency Care and Avalanche Stage 1, both entry level qualifications for many outdoor employment options. On successful completion of the programme some students seek work overseas, before returning to apply for work in New Zealand.

Career Opportunities The Certificate in Ski Patrol is a respected programme and provides specialised training in the specific skills required for a first year ski patroller. Many of our graduates are enjoying successful careers patrolling on New Zealand ski areas as well as ski areas overseas. Other graduates have chosen to establish themselves in the first aid, mountain and ski guiding industry and embark on careers in guiding, back-country touring, emergency care and safety management.