Ski Instructor Level 1+2 Education in Sulden: The South Tyrol Premiere of the Snowsports Academy at Ortler

Anyone who was in Sulden am Ortler between November 20th and 30th, 2025 , noticed: Winter wasn't "on its way"—it was already here. On November 21st, four of our instructors had the honor of opening the first ski instructor level 1+2 course of the Snowsports Academy in Sulden am Ortler, South Tyrol . Fresh snowfall made the journey to the 1,800-meter-high mountain village somewhat challenging—but for the 40 participants, mostly locals, that's just part of the experience in South Tyrol.

Impressive mountain landscapes and bright blue skies characterized the first Snowsports Academy training course in South Tyrol.

The snow and weather conditions on the first day presented the aspiring ski instructors with their first challenge of the ten-day training course. By the second day, the magnificent mountain scenery around the Ortler was bathed in sunshine – and from then on, it was clear: this was not just about developing technique, but also team spirit. In the Sulden ski area, between 2,600 and 3,200 meters , the temperatures remained constant at around -15 degrees Celsius throughout the entire course. Progress was equally steady – especially among the mostly young group, whose motivation was palpable from the very beginning. Around 90% came from Italy or South Tyrol , and it was precisely this local winter sports culture that gave the course a special dynamic: proud, focused, and fully committed.

Training took place where it made the most sense. The magic carpet lift in the valley and the Kanzelbahn gondola provided ideal terrain for technical programs, school trips, and children's lessons on bad weather days. Participants were able to observe and analyze what they had learned in practice, using local Italian ski instructors as examples, and directly apply it to their own teaching practice. Thanks to the Sulden Ski School, the theory lessons were also practical and delivered right on site – short distances, clear procedures, and a great atmosphere. A huge thank you goes to the Sulden Ski School (and also the Sulden Mountain Lifts) for their uncomplicated, professional, and warm cooperation. We felt truly at ease – and that's precisely what elevates training to the next level.

The Snowsports Academy training team in Sulden am Ortler, from left to right: Chiara Weissensteiner, Stefan Baumgartner, Alois Bickel, and Johanna Sperrer.

After nine days of training, teaching demonstrations, and changeable weather, the practical exams in the areas of school trips and personal skiing skills were administered on Sunday, November 30th, under sunny skies. The results speak for themselves and their dedication: We warmly congratulate all the successful ski instructor candidates – and even suggest to some that they seriously consider the next training course to become a ski instructor level 3 part 1 (Landes 1).

Our conclusion: Sulden excels at training . And our motto "snow connecting people" worked immediately in South Tyrol – both on and off the slopes. We're already looking forward to the next time.