Every winter, holidaymakers and families often ask the same question:
Do ESI instructors have the same qualifications as other ski instructors in France?
The answer is yes, without any ambiguity.
A state diploma, identical throughout France
All ski instructors teaching in France, whether in an independent school or a national structure, must hold the State ski diploma - national downhill ski instructor.
The ESI instructors follow exactly the same training programme, pass the same tests, and answer to the same legal requirements than any other qualified instructor in France.
This diploma is :
- issued by the French government
- recognised at national and European level
- guaranteeing technical, teaching and safety skills
👉 There are no “sub-degrees” or alternative diplomas the level of qualification is strictly the same for everyone.
What makes the difference: the ESI philosophy
If the diploma is identical, the pedagogical approach is often what sets an ESI school apart.
At our school, we make it a point of honour to offer :
- student-centred teaching, not performance at any price
- progression that respects each individual's pace, for children and adults alike
- learning through caring and trust, This is the key to overcoming your fears
Learning to ski should remain a pleasure, not a source of stress.
More human groups, personalised attention
One of the great strengths of ESI schools is their deliberately limited group size.
This allows :
- better observation of each student
- more precise corrections
- constant adaptation to individual needs
Result: faster progress and a much more enjoyable experience on the slopes.
A committed, close and passionate team
ESI monitors are first and foremost professionals with a passion for the mountains.
They often choose the ESI for :
- maintain a strong human relationship with their students
- exercise their profession with pedagogical freedom
- quality over quantity
This proximity creates a climate of trust that is appreciated by families as well as adults, whether they are beginners or returning to the profession.
In a nutshell
✔️ Same national diploma recognised by the State
✔️ The same high standards and safety
✔️ A human and personalised approach to teaching
✔️ Groups on a human scale
✔️ An approach based on pleasure and progress
Choosing an ESI school does not mean choosing a different diploma.
It means choosing a different way of learning, She is more gentle, more attentive, and just as demanding professionally.
