Have you ever been amazed by the small children making their way down the mountain like they were born to ski? Perhaps secretly wishing that you could keep up with them? Then let me explain the Swiss Ski School system, so you can understand how children progress through the different stages.  And how even adults can benefit from their services. 

There are many different ski schools in Switzerland; however, the most well-known is the Swiss Ski School. Celebrating 90 years of experience this year and with over 160 locations throughout Switzerland, they will most likely be the ski school you find on your frequented ski slope. 

For those looking to start their children’s skiing journey early on, or for those who are trying out their snow legs for the first time as adults, they have a program available for everyone. 

The Swiss Ski System Explained

Swiss Ski School for Children

Swiss Snow Kids Village 

Get to know Snowli and his friends and give children (from 3 years for skiing and 5 years for snowboarding) their first adventure with snow in a playful way. Many offer the opportunity for parents to join in fun and accompany the children through their first snow adventure. 

Swiss Snow League

Here children will progress through three stages – Prince/Princess, King/Queen or Star in two leagues – Blue (Beginner), Red (Advanced). After this they are eligible to join the Black League (Expert off-piste focus). 

Each child receives a booklet to track their progress after their first course which accompanies them throughout their ski-learning journey. At the completion of each colour stage, they will receive a badge.

For skiing, children can join at any age after 4 years of age. For Snowboarding, children must be at least 6 years of age. Generally, for the first session, particularly if you have booked a multiple day package, the instructors will spend time making sure the children are in the right groups for their ability. Children will be moved between groups, if the instructors feel that the children are or aren’t ready for that stage. 

Blue Snow League

Focuses on the basics and beginning stages of skiing (from 4 years of age) or snowboarding (from 6 years of age). Here children will work through the three stages of the League. Each stage will take a series of sessions to work through. In my experience, my children have worked through one stage over a 5 day course, but it may take longer or shorter for your child.

Red Snow League 

Once they have completed the Blue Snow League, children move through the more advanced stages and skills for basic jumps and mastering red slopes safely and dynamically.

Black Snow League

For those of us, like myself, with children who are daredevils – This league allows them to safely explore off piste skiing with an instructor. 

Swiss Snow Academy

Once you have gone through all the stages of the Swiss Snow League you can advance to the Academy. Here teenagers will learn tricks, perfect their on and off-piste skiing techniques under the watchful eye of a qualified instructor. 

Swiss Ski School For Adults

The Swiss Ski School isn’t just there for children. Adults, regardless of level, can benefit from the courses they provide.  

Whether you are new to skiing, returning to it after many years (check out these tips for the intermediate skier) or are an advanced or expert skier looking to improve or extend your technique, there is something for everyone. It is amazing how your confidence can grow under the guidance of a ski teacher. 

Not sure what to wear skiing in Switzerland? Our complete Switzerland  winter packing guide covers everything from base layers to ski gear.

Useful Swiss Ski School Tips

 Now you know a little bit more about the structure of the Swiss Ski Schools, here are some useful tips to keep in mind when considering booking sessions. 

Book Ski School Early

If you are planning a ski trip, make sure to book your lessons as early as you can. Many places, particularly in the bigger ski regions, will fill up fast, so to avoid disappointment make sure you book in advance. If you are unsure about your child’s level, pick the lower stage and write a short note in the comments section. 

Also don’t be put off by language, most instructors speak multiple languages. I have always let them know that my children are native English speakers, who speak German but feel more comfortable communicating in English, particularly with each other and there has never been a problem. 

Arrive at Ski School Early

To avoid as much stress as possible, it is always good to scope out the area beforehand. Some ski schools allow you to pick up the voucher the weekend (or day) before, which is a great way of finding out exactly where the meeting point is, helping you to know the best location to get your child, or yourself booted up and skis on. 

If this isn’t possible, then make sure you arrive early, I would say at least 30 minutes beforehand. This allows you to get yourself, or your child ready, toileted, booted and skis on before the lesson begins. I have also found this useful, particularly on the first day, as my kids have enjoyed being able to get their ski legs back before starting the lesson. 

Additional Skiing Tips

• Not yet chosen a ski resort for this season? Check out our list of reader-reviewed resorts and other skiing tips
• Your kid is too young for ski school? Here are some tips for toddlers learning to ski.
• What to know what to pack for a week of skiing? I’ve made an “unpacking” ski week list.