New Zealand Certificate in Snowsport (Patrol Leader) (Level 5)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Te Mahi Ako
For those leading snowsport patrol teams, this certificate develops skills to operate as an independent patrol leader within a ski area. Delivered through workplace-based training and assessment.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
It will take a total of 35 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Lead daily patrol operations
Confidently lead a snowsport patrol team in the day-to-day safeguarding and operational functions within a ski area.
Manage stakeholder relationships
Effectively engage and collaborate with a range of stakeholders across the snowsport area.
Provide pre-hospital emergency care
Lead the response to medical and trauma situations, delivering pre-hospital emergency care.
What You're Signing Up For
This 60-credit, Level 5 programme is designed for those employed as or aspiring to become leaders of snowsport patrol teams. The qualification focuses on developing competence in leading daily patrol activities, emergency and rescue routines, terrain management, stakeholder relationship management, and avalanche and snow safety leadership under the guidance of an area supervisor. The programme blends practical workplace training, observation, and assessment across 8–10 months.
Course Content
- Leading daily patrol routines
- Managing stakeholder relationships across a snowsport area
- Leading pre-hospital emergency care for medical and trauma situations
- Monitoring snow stability and hazard management/reporting within ski areas
- Planning and managing terrain management and snow safety control work
- Leading avalanche search and rescue initial response
- Leading a ski patrol emergency response system
What you need to know first
Must be working in an eligible organisation (paid, self-employed, or volunteer with regular, consistent shifts)
Programme available only through specific employers
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Snowsport industry
Recreation & leisure
Emergency response
Future employment opportunities might be
Snowsport patrol leader
Ski area safety supervisor
Outdoor safety management roles