APRÁS SCHOOL GAP YEAR: TRIPS, TRAVEL, FRENCH AND FUN
Over the 15 years we've been operating we've talked to thousands of parents of Gap Year students and they all have similar views of what the Gap Year should include.
First and foremost they want their child to have a change of environment and a break from the pressures of academic life. At the same time however they want the gap experience to provide some of the things school or university simply cannot - the chance to experience new cultures and different people and the opportunity for their children to 'discover themselves' by being challenged in new ways (albeit safe ones). Increasingly the Gap Year is seen as something that 'adds value' to the CV for later life.
On this basis Ski le Gap ticks all the boxes.
Different experience
The practical experience gained by learning the skills required to teach people an activity that is at the same time physical and intellectual cannot be underestimated - especially when the training is intense and in unusually extreme climatic conditions.
Within the broader context of camaraderie and fun the fact of the matter is that most students who come to Ski le Gap initially find themselves way outside the cosy comfort zone of school or university. It's a complete culture shock (in the best and safest possible way) and students have to come to terms with a very different set of expectations.
Let's be honest, qualifying as a ski or snowboard instructor is not easy. In comparison with most Gap Year activities it is worlds apart in the demands it makes. The vast majority of Ski le Gap students undergo an entire voyage of discovery about finding out just what they are really capable of achieving under pressure.
Finally the skills they acquire are transferable and long-lasting. Learning to communicate enthusiasm and knowledge, motivate and lead a group are as valuable at a job interview, in a future teaching role, or in The Boardroom as they are on the mountain.
Different culture
This is French Canada so you get three cultures for the price of one - French, Canadian, and the wonderful bit where it all joins up and becomes French-Canadian! Actually the first language in Mont Tremblant is French and we run French improvement classes for all students.
Different People
Ski le Gap also fosters a culture of success shared with others. The bonding within the Ski le Gap family is simply incredible and way beyond that you'll find on most team building activities. The network of friends established while at Ski le Gap lasts for life.
