Get licensed to thrill with an IEC

If you’re looking for the best instructor programmes that lead to exciting jobs in skiing and boarding, International Academy is your number one destination. And with this month seeing the opening of the International Experience Canada (IEC) work permit applications, now is the ideal time to make your dream of a working holiday come true.

Working in partnership with resident ski and snowboard schools, International Academy (IA) offers a wide range of programmes across the world, including Canada’s renowned Whistler Blackcomb, widely regarded as one of the finest ski resorts on the planet.

Combining IA instructor qualifications through the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance or Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors with the 12-month IEC permit opens up a world of work and travel opportunities in this beautiful location.

If you’re a UK citizen and aged between 18 and 30, having the IEC means you can tour Canada and fully immerse yourself in its culture. The work portion of your trip will allow you to earn cash so that you can fund your travels and adventures during your extended stay.

But best get your skates, skis or board on! Not only does International Academy attract students from all over the world, but there are a limited number of IEC permits available each year.

International Academy has been offering instructor courses in the Canadian Rockies since 1997. It now offers a range of courses: from three-week programmes to intensive 11-week instructorships. Not only will you gain your Level 1 and Level 2 instructor qualifications, but there are also ample opportunities to stay on and work after you have completed your course.

The Whistler Blackcomb University Program (WUP), for example, is a new four-week ski or snowboard instructor training course where you can gain a Level 1 ski (CSIA) or snowboard (CASI) certification and then step into a guaranteed job offer from Whistler Blackcomb once your program is completed.

International Academy also offers great value accommodation packages with all of its courses, with options to suit all budgets.

Its 11-bedroom Alta Vista Chalet can accommodate up to 24 people undertaking the courses all together. Located next to Whistler's Alta Lake, and only 2km from the Whistler Gondola Building, the chalet boasts spacious living and dining areas, a Jacuzzi hot tub on the front deck and fantastic views from the upper BBQ deck. All bedrooms are en suite with comfy furnishings and heated floors.

Here’s what former students have to say about International Academy courses.

I am definitely going to be recommending this programme to my friends and anyone else who asks about my qualifications and where I got them. I would give your programme a 10 out of 10!
Pete Ledger

This course exceeded my expectations. Whistler is awesome and better than I thought.
Seamus Kay, age 20

I decided to go on an International Academy course as part of my gap year. I can definitely say this course exceeded all of my expectations and I’ve had more fun than I could’ve ever imagined with people I didn’t know before. Whistler is an amazing place and has some of the best skiing and snowboarding you will find anywhere.
Daniel Calvert, age 18

For more information on International Academy courses, and how the IEC work permit can help you work and travel around Canada, visit international-academy.com.