When the subject is winter-sport holidays, one of the most exciting propositions is, naturally, learning how to ski - or, alternatively, snowboard. After all, that is what drives nine out of ten winter holidaymakers to the slopes, so it stands to reason that, in any given group, most of the people will want to learn how.

In the French Alps, choosing a good school is not quite as easy as picking a ski chalet. La Tania, for example - one of the most popular Alpine resorts - offers a host of schools, as do most other locations elsewhere in the Alps. At any given time, there is an absolute plethora of ski experts offering their services to beginners, so how are laymen and women supposed to know how to pick the perfect one for them?

Know what you are looking for

The answer, as so often happens, involves knowing what one is after. Taking, once again, the example of choosing a ski chalet, La Tania offers a multitude of those, however, it is generally not hard to eliminate a number of them based on certain characteristics they possess, or do not possess as the case may be. The choice of a ski school should be carried out in the same way, taking into account what type of programme that particular individual or group is looking for and weighing it against what each establishment has to offer.

It may be the case, for instance, that you or your group are looking for one-on-one or small-group tuition; if so, you can eliminate all places that do not offer it. Similarly, if you are indifferent on the subject of group lessons versus private tuition, consider opting for the place that offers the best value for money, without losing sight of what really matters: the quality of the tuition.

On the course to this preliminary scouting process, do also make space for considerations such as amount of material included in the package (does it include helmets and protection?), the inclusion of insurance in the fees (or lack thereof), and expert instructor certification. Try to have a look at the syllabus as well - you should look for a school that will, at the very least, teach you the basics: braking, turning, stopping, and so on. Finally, keep a look out for special offers (perhaps at odd times of the day) or under-enrolled classes, where the instructor may be able to give you more of his or her attention.

Bringing the children

When the lessons are for children, the problem of which school to pick takes on a whole new dimension. Much like for adults, ski lessons are a fun, engaging and popular way to draw children out of the confines of the ski chalet. La Tania, like most resorts in the vicinity, offers a number of courses across its different schools especially geared towards younger learners.

However, when browsing schools with the intention of enrolling small children, added precautions are necessary. Parents and guardians should be on the lookout for a €bunny slope' (the very easiest of slopes, especially designed for children); if the school does not have one, it will not be suitable for a younger novice. Age group and skill level should also be taken into consideration when signing up children, although these are concerns common to adults as well.

In the end, then, a large part of choosing a school comes down to preference, much like with a ski chalet. La Tania offers more than enough schools and instructors to ensure no one is left dissatisfied, so rookie skiers only need to hope they are lucky enough to find their perfect match.