Booking your first ski or snowboard lesson

If you have never skied or snowboarded, say so when booking. Being confident on a skateboard or fit from another sport does not tell a ski school which group will suit you. If you have tried before, describe what you can do and how long it has been rather than choosing a level by its name alone.

Perisher distinguishes first-timer options from other lesson products and publishes beginner meeting and access information. Read the equivalent page at your chosen resort. For children, check the age band and the program’s practical requirements before promising siblings they will be in the same group.

Official reference: Perisher: choosing a lesson.

The lesson, lift ticket and equipment are different parts of the day, even when they are sold together. Record the answers below beside the confirmation. If an inclusion is unclear, ask the ski school before purchasing another product.

• Where do we meet, and when must we be ready there?
• Which lift or terrain access is included, and for how long?
• Which equipment and clothing are included or required?
• What happens if we are late, need to change dates, or the lesson cannot operate?

Try equipment with the socks and clothing you intend to wear. Tell the hire staff if a boot hurts or something feels wrong; do not assume that discomfort is simply part of learning. Have the shop handle equipment adjustments and ask how to carry everything to the meeting point.

Check whether equipment collection is possible before the lesson day and whether that works with your travel arrangements. Rental outlets may have different collection locations and opening hours. A confirmed booking still needs time for fitting and collection.

Official reference: Perisher: snowsports rental information.

Make the lesson the main event. Arrange food and a break afterwards, then decide what you want to do with the remaining time. Ask the instructor where you can practise within your ability and ticket access. This guide covers the booking and preparation; the instructor should teach the on-snow technique.

Before leaving home, find the beginner-area view in the camera atlas and check the operator’s current report. Use the image to recognise the setting, rather than to choose terrain difficulty or decide a lesson is cancelled. Only the operator can confirm changes to your booking.