Jean-Marie Blache, new President of the International Ski Instructors’ Union

The 2023 seminar of the ESi ski schools in the Ardèche

The 2023 seminar of the ESi ski schools took place under the Ardèche sun, in an atmosphere that was studious, friendly and conducive to exchange. This event brought together the network’s stakeholders around several key issues for the future of ski schools and, more broadly, of snow sports teaching in France.

For several days, the participants were able to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and reflect together on the developments in the sector. Beyond the working hours, this seminar also helped strengthen the ties between the different schools of the ESi network.

A new SIMS president

This 2023 edition notably marked an important milestone in the organization of the International Ski Instructors' Union (SIMS). Johann Kwiatkowski, former president of SIMS and director of the ESi in Valloire, officially handed over the presidency to Jean-Marie Blache, from Orcières Merlette. The national bureau had approved this transition during its meeting held at the beginning of April.

At the same time, Antony Collet, from La Toussuire, took over the vice-presidency of the union. These handovers, prepared in advance, are part of a broader reorganisation of SIMS. The National Bureau approved this change unanimously in order to continue the momentum and prepare the next steps in the network’s development.

Many projects for ESi ski schools

The seminar also placed great emphasis on teamwork. Thanks to several round tables bringing together the directors of the ESi schools, the participants identified the main projects to be carried out during the spring and summer.

These exchanges have made it possible to shed light on new avenues of reflection regarding the organization of schools, teaching, the evolution of practices, and the expectations of practitioners. The goal remains, in particular, to strengthen the role of the SIMS and the ESi network as a a recognized alternative for ski teaching in France and Europe.

This collective approach also allows the different schools to share their experience on the ground. Each resort has its own specific features, but exchanges within the network make it possible to pool skills and devise common responses to the changes in the mountain sector.

The mountain facing the climate challenges

Among the major topics discussed during the seminar, the climate question naturally held an important place. Changes in snow cover and differences in conditions between mountain ranges are prompting mountain stakeholders to think about new ways of developing their activities.

In this context, the ESi network continues its reflection on diversification. The skills of mountain professionals indeed allow for offering experiences that go far beyond the traditional alpine skiing.

ESi Summer is part of this dynamic. Hiking, mountain biking and other outdoor activities offer a different way to discover mountain areas when the snow gives way to summer landscapes. This diversification showcases the know-how of the network’s professionals while supporting the shift of mountain destinations towards activity spread across the seasons.

A new SIMS president, for a chapter for the ESi network

Finally, the National Bureau warmly thanked Johann Kwiatkowski for his commitment and the work accomplished during his two terms as president of the SIMS.

In recent years, ski schools have faced several complex periods and profound changes in the sector. Despite this context, Johann Kwiatkowski and the members of the network have continued their activities in order to maintain a collective dynamic and prepare for the future.

With this new organization and the numerous projects launched at the 2023 seminar, the ESi ski school network is now opening a new chapter. The goal remains the same: to develop snow sports teaching, support mountain professionals and continue offering a human, accessible and innovative approach in the resorts.

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