This popular programme is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills and attributes required to enter the Ski Patrol industry. It is held in high regard by the Heads of Ski patrol within New Zealand and includes a four week placement for students with a real ski patrol department. This is where students compound the skills learnt with their tutors and is probably one of the longest and most fun filled job interviews ever.
The programme has successfully run since 1995 and past students have reached senior, supervisory and heads of department positions within New Zealand Ski patrols. The programme also provides a strong foundation for related careers in the outdoors, including alpine and ski guiding, a variety of summer guiding and/or instruction, ambulance officer, and safety management. It contains both Pre- Hospital Emergency Care and Avalanche Stage 1, both entry level qualifications for many outdoor employment options. On successful completion of the programme some students seek work overseas, before returning to apply for work in New Zealand.
Learning takes place in a realistic working environment and includes practical and theory that is based on identified industry needs. It is a big seven months, chock full of learning, growth, discovery and fun.
Core Elements
All courses are unit standard based and have been designed through feedback from the Ski Patrol, Emergency Care and Snow Safety industries. With the exception of snow blasting, all integrate with each other for the duration of the programme.
Pre-Hospital Emergency Care (PHEC)
This course includes the following NZQA unit standards (the nationally recognized PHEC certificate)
25411 Demonstrate knowledge of and use an Automated External Defibrillator
25412 Provide basic pre-hospital emergency care
14473 Move and position patients in preparation for transportation.
Additional PHEC training includes the use of rescue toboggans as well as additional in depth first aid training requested by the ski patrol industry.
Avalanche Hazard Management
This course includes Stage 1 Avalanche (accredited by the NZ Mountain Safety Council), is comparable to the Canadian Avalanche Stage 1 and covers:
Weather and snow pack observations
Avalanche phenomena
Snow stability and metamorphism
Avalanche terrain and back country safe travel techniques
Avalanche rescue
Snow blasting for Avalanche control.
Meteorology
This course begins in the distance learning section of the programme and includes
Interpreting weather maps
Taking weather observations
Making safety decisions based on weather.
Ski Patrol Operations
As well as looking at client safety, this course has a strong focus on professional work ethics and behavior. It includes:
Managing personal learning processes
Developing team attributes
Slope hazard management
Emergency response systems
Much of this course is assessed whilst students are on work placement.
Mountain Craft and Rope Rescue
The intention of this course is to become proficient in low span chairlift evacuation, and the basic rope skills required by ski patrol. This course includes:
the basic rope, ice axe and crampon skills needed for general and rescue work
Harnesses and ropes
Knots and anchors
Abseiling and chairlift evacuation
Skiing and Boarding Skills
This course begins with a pre-fitness training program in Term 1 and progresses into Ski or snowboard lessons with the Treble Cone Snow sports school. It culminates in a rigorous ski or snowboard test at the end of Term 3. It also includes the basics of ski touring techniques.
The Certificate in Ski Patrol is a respected programme and provides specialised training in the specific skills required for a first year ski patroller.
Many of our graduates are enjoying successful careers patrolling on New Zealand ski areas as well as ski areas overseas. Other graduates have chosen to establish themselves in the first aid, mountain and ski guiding industry and embark on careers in guiding, back-country touring, emergency care and safety management.
Ski or Snowboard?
Because of safety and timing issues associated with avalanche control work, as well as the importance of holding a high traverse line, the majority of ski patrols do not employ snow boarders.
Entry Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Applicants for whom English is a second language must meet IELTS (or equivalent) Level 5.5.
Have successfully completed NCEA Level 2 (or overseas equivalent) with a minimum of 8 credits in English and a minimum of 8 credits in mathematics
Be over 18 years of age as of May 1st of the year they enter the programme to meet the requirements of the test certifier issuing the approved handler test certificate for snow blasting .
Verification by a New Zealand Ski Instructors Alliance (NZSIA) certified ski or snowboard instructor, or an appropriate ski patrol supervisor who has been pre approved by one of the program tutors that the applicant meets or exceeds NZSIA level 5 in skiing or snowboarding (or proof of overseas equivalent).
Hold a first aid certificate valid for the duration of the programme and including unit standards either 6400, 6401 and 6402 Or units 26551 and 26552 (reported to NZQA) (or proof of overseas equivalent)
Once the entry criteria have been met by the applicant, the program coordinator will interview the applicant to establish how well the applicant meets the Selection Criteria as listed.
Selection Criteria
Prior work experience in the Snow Sports Industry (paid or voluntary) especially volunteer ski patrolling or trail crew.
Prior general experience in outdoor activities e.g. downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, tramping, mountaineering or rock climbing.
A strong and confident skier who is able to continuously ski black runs at a snow sport area all day.
Skier rather than snowboarder.
When the number of applicants who meet the entry criteria exceeds the number of positions available, applicants who meet more of the selection criteria than other applicants will be given priority in selection.
Special Notes:
Special Entry may be granted where evidence exists that the applicant can successfully complete the programme. Prospective students are advised to discuss this with the Programme Co-ordinator.
Equipment
This is intended as a guide only. A complete equipment list will be included in your enrolment pack. Personal equipment costs will vary depending on what you already own.
You are required to provide the following essential equipment:
Skis or snowboard and bindings
Boots
Poles
Avalanche transceiver
Avalanche probe and snow shovel
Sturdy alpine or tramping boots
Ski touring equipment
Snow shoes or split boards (snow boarders only)
Skins (for skiers or users of split boards)
Clothing suitable for the New Zealand mountain environment
Tai Poutini Polytechnic supplies the use of following equipment for training:
This programme requires that a Questionnaire be completed in addition to the enrolment form.
We are based in Wanaka, only 40 minutes drive from the Treble Cone ski area where training in the practical elements of the programme take place. Our ski-to day lodge on the ski area is our classroom and is used by students for shelter, equipment storage and lunch preparation.
Equipment used and carried is what you would expect to see in any professional patrol. Students are supplied with a distinctive patrol vest. Our classroom is equipped with a basic ski-tuning bench and tools, and various other training aids.
Excellent rock climbing, mountaineering and five amazing ski resorts are within ninety minutes drive of Wanaka. Wanaka is also home for worldclass mountain biking, fishing and other outdoor activities.
The Diploma programme progresses your own technical skills to the next level and introduces you to the exciting world of sharing your skills with others. If you’re passionate about the outdoors, what better way to earn a living than sharing you passion with like minded people!
You will work with a wide variety of real clients in organised, supervised instruction and guiding opportunities, receiving regular feedback and mentoring to improve your practice and prepare you for leading others out in the industry.
The nationally recognised New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association (NZOIA) Leader qualifications are embedded into our programmes. They give you a kick start in the industry and connect you with the wider instruction and guiding community.
Business and language skills are increasingly important in the global economy. Our students are encouraged to integrate papers of the New Zealand Diploma in Business/NZIM Diploma in Management into their course of study, giving them an edge over the competition.
Generally you will need to have completed our Certificate programme for entry into the Diploma, however if you think you have the prerequisite skills for direct entry, give us a call and we can discuss your options.
Core Elements
Compulsory Papers
DOIG500 Geography of Aotearoa New Zealand
Develop an understanding of geographical concepts contextualised in Aotearoa New Zealand.
DOIG501 Teaching and Learning
Synthesise education and learning theories and principles when working with a variety of groups in the outdoors. To enhance professional, study and presentation skills.
DOIG502 Meteorology and Applied Outdoor Leadership
Demonstrate and apply knowledge of weather to analyse and forecast conditions for commercial and personal outdoor activities. To determine and operate within accepted guidelines of safety, access, culture and environmental practices in an outdoor context.
DOIG 503 Environmental Science
Develop an understanding of the elementary processes of Aotearoa New Zealand’s ecological systems and principles. To explore the impacts of human interactions on the environment.
DOIG504 Exercise Physiology, Training and Injury Management
Understand the principles of health and body function to enhance competent and safe participation in outdoor recreation.
Elective Papers (3-4 to be choosen)
DOIG505 Whitewater Kayaking Advanced Practice and Instruction
Become an independent kayaker on Grade 3 whitewater with peer groups, and instruct clients in basic whitewater kayaking skills.
DOIG506 Rafting Advanced Practice and Guiding
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to guide a raft and perform appropriate rescues on Grade 3 whitewater and guide clients on Grade 2 whitewater.
DOIG507 Rock Climbing Advanced Practice and Guiding
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to become an independent climber capable of leading on adventure crags with peers, and instructing clients in basic rock climbing at outdoor and indoor venues.
DOIG508 Mountaineering Advanced Practice and Guiding/Instruction
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to become an independent mountaineer on snow, ice and rock peaks, and instruct or guide clients in basic mountaineering.
DOIG509 Sea Kayaking Advanced Practice and Guiding
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to become an independent sea kayaker in open coastal waters with peers, and guide clients in sheltered waters.
DOIG510 Industry and Workplace Studies
Gain industry experience working alongside employed professionals in the outdoors. To develop the practical skills and knowledge for approaching employers, applying for jobs and managing career direction. This paper includes an 8 week industry placement.
NEW Sustainability
This module looks at improving awareness of sustainability issues relevant to the tourism industry. Environmental issues are studied such as climate change, dairying in New Zealand, waterways, waste management, biofuels, alternative power generation in remote places.
NEW Interpretation
This module focuses on developing skills in communicating our stories. Develop skills in making videos, verbal storytelling and making interpretive panels. Industry needs good storytellers and you can develop this important skill here.
To view the 2013 Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Guiding Indicative Timetable Click here
New Zealand Diploma in Business or NZIM Diploma in Management (TPP)
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Guiding are capable of leading groups and managing clients or students safety in a range of outdoor settings in the education or tourism sectors.
The personal technical skill-set of graduates will be equivalent that required by professional level qualifications (NZOIA, SKOANZ, NZRA) so graduates are capable of operating in moderate to high risk outdoor settings. This recognises a fundamental principle in outdoor leadership; that an instructor or guide must be able to safely and effectively operate in risk settings that are higher than those in which they may be expected to manage client safety.
Graduates will specialise in technical pursuit instruction, education or tourism experience management.
Knowledge and skills in safety management and group leadership will allow graduates to make proactive decisions in the field. This creates the potential to guide and instruct clients, unsupervised, in a variety of outdoor settings of low to moderate risk.
Group facilitation, presentation and teaching skills will allow graduates to effectively deliver the stated outcomes of the organisation they represent. These could include technical skill delivery and instruction, personal development, environmental and health education and tourism experience management.
Knowledge of Aotearoa New Zealand’s special flora and fauna, its geophysical and socio-cultural make-up along with contemporary studies of global and local environmental issues allow graduates to “tell the story” of New Zealand while enlightening and entertaining their clients or students.
Entry Criteria
Applicants for whom English is a second language must meet IELTS (or equivalent) Level 5.5 with no band lower than 5.0
Applicants must have attended a minimum of four years secondary schooling and successfully completed NCEA Level Two (or equivalent), inclusive of credits in Science
Applicants must have completed a first year Outdoor Education programme to level four or provide evidence of equivalent prior outdoor experience and academic ability
Applicants must hold a current First Aid Certificate
Applicants must to meet and document a range of outdoor experience requirements
Note:
Fitness is a Health and Safety requirement of this programme and potential students will be required to pass a fitness test at the start of the programme
It is preferable students are at least 18 years of age. Mature students who do not meet entry criteria, but demonstrate the motivation and commitment to study and are able to meet and provide documented evidence of outdoor experience requirements will be considered
Special Entry may be granted where evidence exists that the applicant can successfully complete the programme
Have a minimum of three years secondary schooling and have successfully achieved NCEA Level One (or equivalent).
Applicants for whom English is a second language must meet IELTS (or equivalent) Level 5.5 or above.
Selection Criteria apply. Special Entry may be granted where evidence exists that the applicant can successfully complete the programme. Please contact the Polytechnic for details.
The Certificate programme combines the best of the outdoor opportunities that the West Coast and beyond can provide.
Core Elements
COE400 Kayaking Applied Practice
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to become an independent kayaker on Grade 2 whitewater with peer groups, and execute multiday seakayak trips on sheltered coastal water
COE401 Rafting Applied Practice
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to guide a raft and perform appropriate rescues on Grade 2 whitewater.
COE402 Rock Climbing Applied Practice
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to top rope and abseil independently with peers at adventure crags, and lead climb on indoor walls.
COE403 Mountain Applied Practice
Develop the skills, knowledge and attitude to become an independent mountaineer on Grade 1 snow terrain with peers.
Other Subjects
Other practical subjects include: tramping, ice-climbing, navigation, survival, river-crossing and outdoor catering.
Whether you’re a keen beginner with general outdoor experience or already have considerable technical experience under your belt, the Certificate in Outdoor Education will increase your skills and challenge you. Our ratios and teaching experience mean we can help you progress at your level, pushing you further for more challenge or breaking it down if it’s all new to you.
To augment the practical subjects and round out your skill set we’ll spend some time in the classroom studying; risk assessment and management, meteorology, environmental science, digital media, communication skills, tikanga Maori, leadership and facilitation, outdoor first aid, pursuit theory, trip planning, exercise science, work and study skills.
To view the 2013 Outdoor Education Indicative Timetable Click here
Having successfully completed the Outdoor Education programme, you can go on to the Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Guiding, Certificate in Ski Patrol, Certificate in Ecotourism or Diploma in Ecotourism to further develop yourself and your career. We offer a well-rounded programme that reflects current industry standards.
Graduates of the Certificate in Outdoor Education are capable of moving into the tourism or education sectors in a variety of entry level roles. Examples of such roles include adventure and ecotourism guiding, education outside the classroom, community health and recreation programming and youth development programmes. There is a global market for this skill set and graduates of this programme are well placed to take advantage of this.
These skills enable graduates to be self sufficient technically in a range of outdoor settings. The level is commensurate with that of a trainee instructor or guide in adventure tourism or outdoor education settings where the clients are beginners or closely supervised with established safety systems in place. These graduates would be working with experienced practitioners under direct supervision.
Graduates will have the skills and knowledge to facilitate low risk outdoor experiences for clients or students within a range of outdoor settings. Knowledge of physical health, education and a specialist First Aid qualification adds to their ability to observe and manage client/student safety.
Basic facilitation and presentation skills will enable graduates to manage a non complex client or student experience in line with the expected outcomes of the organisation they are representing.
Entry Criteria
Applicants for whom English is a second language must meet IELTS (or equivalent) Level 5.5 with no band lower than 5.0
Applicants must have attended a minimum of four years secondary schooling
Applicants must have successfully completed NCEA Level One (or equivalent), including a minimum of 12 credits in English, 12 credits in Maths and 12 credits in Science
Applicants must hold a current First Aid Certificate
Applicants must have a reasonable level of fitness and be able to swim
Note:
Fitness is a Health and Safety requirement of this programme and potential students will be required to pass a fitness test at the start of the programme
It is preferable students are at least 18 years of age. Mature students who do not meet entry criteria, but demonstrate the motivation and commitment to study and are able to meet and provide documented evidence of outdoor experience requirements will be considered
Special Entry may be granted where evidence exists that the applicant can successfully complete the programme
Few jobs are as rewarding as guiding a raft down an exhilarating whitewater river. To get your line right, you need proper training and experience. Kick start your career or improve your skills with professional training on the West Coast.
The aim of this short award is to develop each student’s skills and knowledge towards those required by current industry awards.
The consolidation of technical skills in raft guiding and rescue techniques is given priority, along with understanding the principles of client management and the structure and culture of the rafting industry.
All students who successfully complete the course and meet the professional and attitudinal course requirements should have developed the skills and knowledge to work as a competent trainee raft guide. They will have developed at least the following specific skills and knowledge:
The capacity to perform the functions required of a trainee guide in the rafting industry and the ability to accept responsibility for the safe conduct of activities and the elementary maintenance of equipment.
Knowledge of the structure and legal requirements of the New Zealand Rafting Industry
A clear understanding of the professional ethics, attitudes and values which are required in the provision of white water rafting experiences for clients.
Class size
There are 12 places available on the short award (ratios are approximately 1:4 for guiding skills and 1:6 for rescue training). This enables us to have enough students to run rescue scenarios, and to still be able to focus on each student as an individual.
Core Elements
4 weeks intensive rescue and guide training
1 week as a trainee guide at a commercial raft company*
National Grade 2 or 3 Raft Guide Assessment and qualification**
New Zealand Raft Rescue Workshop Certificate
World class, senior guide instructors
Exposure to a variety of South Island rivers (up to grade 5)
Opportunity to learn using “real” clients
*subject to meeting professional behaviour criteria
**conditional on meeting skill requirements.
Be 18 years of age or over applicants must have attended a minimum of four years secondary schooling and successfully completed NCEA Level One, or equivalent.
Mature student’s who do not meet the academic criteria, but demonstrate the motivation and commitment to study and are able to meet and provide documented evidence of the outdoor experience requirements (see below) will be considered.
Applicants must hold a current First Aid certificate.
Applicants for whom English is a second language must meet IELTS (or equivalent) Level 5.5 or above.
Applicants must meet and document the whitewater experience requirements as listed below:
-Competent grade 2 kayaker with a reliable roll; and/or
-10 days in a Trainee Raft Guide role with a commercial rafting company operating trips on Grade 2 water or above
Note:
Selection criteria may be determined through application documents, charter referee statements and interviews, written candidate questionnaire and an interview by the Programme Co-ordinator
Candidates must supply contact details for two character referees
The following will be considered advantageous for candidate selection: favourable referee statements, prior experience in the rafting industry, extensive whitewater kayaking experience, prior tertiary education qualifications, prior experience working in the adventure tourism industry
Pre-course preparation
Once accepted onto the course you will be provided with resources to assist you with the following pre-course preparation.
It is a course requirement that all students are competent in the following areas before the course commences. This allows us to make the most of course time.
If you need further assistance in finding resources from which to learn any of these things please contact the Outdoor Education office, we will be happy to help.
Signals
Students must know all the standard New Zealand rafting hand and whistle signals as per the NZRA Log Book.
Knots
Students should be competent at tying the following knots under pressure.
Bowline (around an anchor), tension hitch (truckies hitch) tied off with a releasable half hitch, tape or water knot, figure-eight knots (in-line, follow through, on a bight, directional(both ways), double loop), double fishermans, prussic knots (klemheist, classic), sheet bend, clove hitch (around a bar), Italian hitch, alpine butterfly.
Weather
Students must be able to interpret basic weather maps as per Chapter 2 of the New Zealand Weather Book, author Erick Brenstrum.
New Zealand Rafting
Students must know the following about 3 commercially rafted New Zealand Rivers, one of which must be from the North Island, and one of which must be from the South.
Location, grade, nature(pool drop, continuous, cold, warm, accessibility), average price of a trip, length of time of the trip on water, names of two commercial companies that work that river.
Programme fitness requirements
This short award requires a base level of fitness that will allow full and unhindered participation.
Soon after the programme starts, you will be tested through a number of tasks to evaluate your fitness. If your fitness is not adequate, you may be withdrawn from the programme.
We suggest that you prepare in advance and ensure your fitness is such that you can make the most of the learning offered on the course. Expect long days on the river with lots of swimming and clambering around the river. Regaining an upturned raft from the water requires strength,
technique and timing.
Fitness tests and standards
Applicants must as a minimum meet the course fitness requirements as listed below:
Swim test. Swim 500 metres in sheltered water without stopping
Run test. Run 5km in 28 minutes without stopping on undulating terrain
Note: these are minimum standards to allow the student to participate on the programme
The Diploma is offered using distance learning modules so you can go for the whole qualification or just what you are interested in. You can do nearly all the Diploma from your base, wherever it is.
This programme is designed for people who want to enhance their employment options within the ecotourism industry. Graduates will gain specific skill sets that will enhance their employment opportunities within this industry.
Delivered in short awards, predominately using distance learning methods with some block courses necessary to complete the diploma. It is ideal if you are already employed and wish to complete some study while working.
Core Elements
Sustainability
Interpretation and Cultural Tourism
Guiding
Marine Mammals
Business Studies
NZ Ecosystems
Course Structure
We deliver you 3 compulsory Modules including: Guiding, Ecosystems and Culture in Tourism which make up 60 credits.
You must then complete another module from a choice of two, either Business Skills or a Sustainability paper. (20 credits).
To complete the Diploma in Ecotourism, you have a choice of a number of electives which you can combine to finish the qualification. These are: Legislation in Ecotourism, Marine Mammals and Research (40 credits).
The total qualification is 120 credits.
You have the option to complete any of the 20 credit Short Awards or electives on their own in areas that interest you.
There are also papers from the National Diploma in Business which help students move into better positions in Ecotourism businesses as their understanding grows.
The diploma is particularly relevant for people already working in ecotourism looking to up-skill, or those wanting to add value to their existing business.
Dates 2013
Ecosystems of Aotearoa 24 June - 6 August
Marine Mammals and research 11 August - 13 September
Workplace Studies 16 September - 4 November
Tai Poutini Polytechic on the West Coast of the South Island, is New Zealand’s leading ecotourism education and industry training provider.
Along with our training courses and certificate programme, we offer a Diploma in Ecotourism. Most of the training is by distance learning so you can carry on working or running your business while you learn and up-skill.
Career Opportunities
The Diploma in Ecotourism is designed to give you the flexibility to study while in the workforce and to study the particular aspect of Ecotourism you wish to pursue.
Our diploma in ecotourism offers many opportunities. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in tourism business management, senior level guiding and conservation interpretation and education. Others have found it an invaluable chance to make substantial environmental improvements to their existing businesses.
Entry Criteria
Sucessfully completed the Certificate in Ecotourism (or equivalent). Please discuss this with the lead tutor.
Applicants for whom English is a second language must meet IELTS (or equivalent) Level 6.0.
Selection Criteria apply. Special Entry may be granted where evidence exists that the applicant can successfully complete the diploma programme. This may include demonstrating an understanding of NZ Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences to Level 4 of the National Qualifications Framework. Please contact the Polytechnic for details.
