Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve never skied or snowboarded, where do I start?

If you’re a complete beginner, the best place to start is with one of our Introduction to Skiing lessons.

These sessions are designed for first-timers and teach the foundations of skiing, including balance, movement, speed control, and how to use the equipment safely on the slope.

For younger children, we offer age-specific lessons:

Puffins (ages 3–6) – gentle 30-minute 1:1 introduction sessions designed for younger children

Penguins (ages 7–9) – focused lessons delivered either 1:1 or in small groups of up to 3 children

For participants aged 10+, we offer group ski lessons following our structured progression pathway.

If you’re interested in snowboarding, we offer private snowboard lessons, which are ideal for beginners and allow participants to learn at their own pace.

All equipment is included, and our instructors will guide you through everything step by step.

If you are unsure which lesson is most suitable, please get in touch and we will be happy to advise.

Will I be able to ski on my own after an Introduction to Skiing lesson?

You will learn the fundamentals needed to get started.

However, participants will not be fully independent after just one lesson. Skiing is a progressive skill, and it typically takes a few lessons to build confidence and control.

To ski independently, you will need to complete all 4 levels.

Does the price include ski equipment?

Yes, all ski equipment is included in the price of your lesson. This includes skis, boots, and a helmet.

Ski poles are available on request if needed.

You do not need to bring any ski equipment with you; however, you must bring your own gloves, as these are not provided.

What is the minimum standard for open practice?

Open Practice is not a lesson and is only suitable for confident, independent skiers and snowboarders.

Skiers must be able to:

• Snowplough glide
• Snowplough turn
• Snowplough stop
• Use the drag lift independently

Snowboarders must be able to:

• Perform falling leaf
• Stop safely under control
• Use the drag lift independently

If you are unable to meet this standard, we recommend continuing with lessons until you are ready.

Can I use my own equipment?

Yes, you are welcome to use your own skis, boots, and helmet.

However, skis must be suitable for use on a dry ski slope and must not have wax applied.

Helmets must be worn at all times.

If you are unsure whether your equipment is suitable, please speak to a member of the team before your session.

What clothes should I wear?

Participants should wear:

• Long sleeves
• Full-length trousers or jogging bottoms
• Socks that reach mid-calf
• Gloves (participants must bring their own)

Please note:

• Leggings or tights worn on their own are not suitable
• Shorts or ¾ length trousers are not suitable
• Ski gloves are often very warm and can become uncomfortable in typical UK conditions

The slope is mist-lubricated, so participants may get wet. We recommend bringing a change of clothes.

What’s your cancellation/moving lessons policy?

Please refer to your booking confirmation email for full details of our cancellation and lesson transfer policy.

How far in advanced do I need to book?

We recommend booking as early as possible, as sessions often become fully booked.

Availability can vary, but during busy periods lessons may be booked several weeks in advance.

Sessions are released in 4–6 week blocks, with new dates typically added on Mondays.

Can I be on the slope while my child is having a lesson or on open practice?

During lessons, you may use the slope at the same time as your child if you meet the minimum Open Practice standard and have your own valid booking for the slope.

If you do not meet the required standard, you will not be permitted on the slope.

During Open Practice, all participants must meet the minimum standard required to use the slope independently.

When should we arrive for our session?

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your session start time.

This allows enough time for kit-up and ensures your lesson can start promptly.

Late arrivals may miss part or all of their session.

Do you stay open regardless of the weather?

Yes, we operate in most weather conditions.

The slope is mist-lubricated, so light rain does not affect sessions. However, in extreme weather conditions, such as high winds, lightning, or severe ice, we may need to suspend sessions.

If this happens, we will contact you directly.

What age do you have to be to ski with us?

Skiing

We offer skiing for a range of ages:

Ages 3–6: Puffins Ski Experience

Ages 7–9: Penguin Ski Lessons

Ages 10+: Group Ski Lessons (Introduction to Skiing and Levels 2–4)

Private ski lessons are available for ages 10 and above.

We also offer Family Ski Lessons, which allow parents/guardians to learn alongside children aged 7–9.

For Group Ski bookings (10+ participants), the minimum recommended age is 8 years old.

Snowboarding

Snowboarding is based more on physical size and strength than age.

To get the most out of the session, participants should generally meet the following guidelines:

• Minimum shoe size: UK 4
• Minimum height: approximately 1.2m (4ft)
• Recommended minimum weight: approximately 50kg

These guidelines are based on equipment suitability and the physical demands of snowboarding on a dry slope.

If you are unsure whether snowboarding is suitable, please get in touch and we will be happy to advise.

Does an adult need to stay with an under 17?

Yes, a responsible adult must remain on site for anyone under 17.

They do not need to be on the slope, but must stay at the centre for the duration of the session.

What qualifications do your instructors hold?

Our instructors hold a range of recognised ski and snowboard qualifications, including CSIA, BASI, and Snowsport England (SSE).

Many of our instructors are also trained to support participants with additional needs.

All instructors are trained to deliver lessons safely and effectively on a dry slope and teach using structured progression pathways appropriate to each lesson level.

Is booking required?

Yes, all sessions must be booked in advance.

We are unable to accept walk-ins for lessons, and sessions are often fully booked.

What availability do you have for 10+ groups?

Group booking availability varies throughout the year and is based on slope availability, staffing requirements, and the type of session requested.

Some schools and larger organisations book many months in advance, particularly during peak periods.

During the off-season, availability may also be limited due to scheduled maintenance work on the slope.

How do I book a 10+ group?

Group bookings for 10 or more participants are arranged directly through us to ensure the session is suitable for your group size, age range, and ability level.

Please use the Contact Us page to enquire about availability and booking options.

I can’t find how to book a 10+ group online?

Some Group Tubing sessions may be available to book online.

However, Group Ski sessions are arranged directly through us, as sessions are tailored to your group size, ages, and ability levels.

Please use the Contact Us page to enquire about Group Ski bookings.