That's La Plagne
10 Questions to Find the Best La Plagne Ski Schools
Embarking on an Unforgettable Family Ski Adventure in La Plagne
How to find the best La Plagne ski school for your family
As a family who calls the snowy hills of La Plagne home, I'm excited to share my insider tips on choosing the perfect ski school for your family. Both my children have grown up on the slopes of La Plagne, both summer and winter, and as you can imagine, have had more ski school lessons than I care to count!
Whilst my children, 5 and 6, at the time of writing this article, have learned to ski with Oxygene Ski School and then with ESF (Ecole du Ski Francais) through their school. There are many other ski schools to look at and choose from. So, let's dive into the world of ski schools and lessons and discover the key questions that will guide you toward an unforgettable experience.
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How to choose the right ski lessons
Budget
This is often the decision-making factor for most families. Consider your budget when selecting ski lessons in La Plagne. Group lessons are generally more cost-effective, while private lessons offer focused attention at a higher price.
Ability
Choose lessons that match your family's skill level. La Plagne has options for everyone, whether you're beginners or experienced skiers.
Typically, families or groups on ski holidays together are a mixed-ability ski group or a mix of snowboards and skiers. It’s not always the best idea to all jump into ski lessons together if you are a mix of ages and abilities. In fact, as a ski family, it can be extremely beneficial to have some time apart from one another over your ski lessons!
Age
Different ski lessons cater to various age groups. Ensure the lessons are appropriate and engaging for your children's ages. This is when group ski lessons can come into play. Children learn at a different pace to adults, and putting children into ski lessons alongside children of the same age will help them learn at a comfortable pace.
Another point to consider, trying to pair brothers or sisters together might seem like a good idea, especially if your children are more nervous. However, if they are at different ages, it is often a better idea to let them join the group lessons set for the correct age range or ability. This can be hard on day one, but your children will quickly find their feet – or their ski legs!
Availability of Ski Lessons
Plan ahead and book your lessons in advance. This guarantees availability and lets you create a balanced itinerary for your holiday.
In La Plagne, as with most other European ski resorts, ski lessons are in high demand, and you absolutely need to book in advance. The sessions that are booked out first are:
- Peak weeks: Christmas, New Year, February ½ term, Easter
- Morning group lessons, followed by afternoon group lessons, which are less popular.
Ski School or Lesson Times
Align lesson times with your family's daily schedule. Consider meal breaks and rest to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Morning ski group lessons are usually between 10 am and 1230. Groups are usually quieter in the afternoons, running between 230 pm and 5 pm (approximately).
Private ski lessons: Often harder to book in peak weeks when instructors are busier with group lessons. However, you can often book around the sides of group lesson times: 9 am – 10 am, over lunch, 12 – 2 pm and late afternoon, 4 pm – 5 pm.
10 Questions to choose the right ski school in La Plagne
1. Where is the ski school meeting point for ski lessons?
Check the location of the meeting point for lessons. Convenience and easy access to the slopes make a difference in your overall experience.
As a rule, the larger La Plagne ski schools, ESF and Oxygene, have their own ski school meeting points. ESF has a meeting point within each La Plagne village. Oxygene ski school has meeting points in Belle Plagne and Plagne Centre. However, they will pick you up for your accommodation and take you to the meeting point if you are staying in any of the other La Plagne villages. You just need to call ahead on arrival in La Plagne to arrange for the following first day of ski school.
The smaller ski schools, like Reflex and El Pro, will meet at specific lifts.
Private instructors, like Lime Ski School, will meet you at your accommodation. Which can be a great option for beginners (and to feel like a real VIP!).
2. Children's groups or private lessons?
Determine if the ski school offers group lessons for children and/or private lessons. Then, think about how your children learn the best. Make a choice based on your family's preferences from the above pros and cons for private and group ski lessons.
3. Are the ski instructors native English speakers?
This might not be a concern for your family, but language can greatly impact learning. If this is the case for your family, look for ski schools with instructors who are native English speakers or have excellent English proficiency.
4. Look at ski school reviews.
Research online reviews from other families who've experienced La Plagne's ski schools. Their insights provide valuable information. Trip Advisor is a good place to start, but also Facebook for recent reviews.
5. What is the ski instructor-to-child ratio for ski school?
Ski schools have set group sizes. Typically, those with larger group sizes will cost less and ski schools with smaller group sizes will be more expensive. A low instructor-to-child ratio ensures personal attention and a safer learning environment. Prioritise schools that are transparent on their group sizes and then maintain this ratio. Oxygene Ski School keep the group sizes between 8 to 10 kids (max). It's harder to confirm the group size and ratio with ESF, but expect it to be around 10 – 12 kids per instructor.
6. What age do ski lessons start?
Find out the minimum age for lessons. La Plagne's ski schools usually offer lessons for children as young as three years old. Toddlers who ski from 3 years old will start off in the snow gardens, where the aim is not to get skiing but to have fun on snow and learn how to slide on their skis.
If your child is under 3 years old, but you want them to begin skiing, it is still worth talking with the ski schools. Decisions can be made on a case-by-case system, and if your 2-year-old is very physically active, strong enough to move in ski boots and is excited to try skiing, then they can potentially join a ski school group.
7. How long are the ski lessons?
Understand the duration of the ski lesson program. This helps you plan your family's daily activities effectively. As I mentioned above, group lessons in the morning are often 2.5 hours, and the afternoon group lessons are 2 hours long. Private lessons start at 1 hour and can run to a full day for those who want to head further afield or explore the off-piste or backcountry.
8. Are toilet breaks/snack breaks encouraged?
Family-friendly ski schools prioritise breaks for restroom visits and snacks, ensuring a comfortable experience for your children. Ask whether children are taken to the toilet if they ask and what the policy is for snacks and rests.
Do also be aware, though that accidents happen and small children will sometimes wet themselves at ski school. This is rarely the fault of the instructor. Speak to your chalet host or accommodation provider, who will usually be able to clean and dry your children's ski gear, ready for the next day.
9. How many days do ski lessons run?
Consider the length of the lesson program. La Plagne's ski schools offer options for both daily and multi-day lessons. Group lessons usually start on Sunday through to Friday, with an award ceremony at the end of the Friday ski session. Private lessons can be organised 7 days a week.
10. What is the ski school price?
Understand the pricing structure for ski lessons. Compare options to find the best fit for your family's budget. The larger ski schools often also provide ski equipment rental, and you can save on both ski lessons and ski rental by bundling together both items, often saving up to 20%.
That’s La Plagne and how to pick the best La Plagne ski school for your family
As you set out to find the best ski school in La Plagne, remember that each question you ask brings you closer to an unforgettable family adventure. With the stunning alpine backdrop and the laughter of your children echoing on the slopes, La Plagne promises moments of pure joy. Armed with these essential questions, you're well on your way to creating cherished memories that will warm your hearts for years to come.
See you on the slopes!
Here's a link to the La Plagne Ski School Directory for you to geck out all the best La Plagne ski schools.
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