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About
The Snow Institute

At TSI, we believe every skier deserves expert coaching, honest advice and a lesson tailored to their individual goals. Whether you're taking your very first turns or refining advanced techniques, our team is here to help you build confidence, improve your skiing and enjoy everything the Portes du Soleil has to offer.

Who We Are

More than just a ski school

The Snow Institute is a British-run ski school based in the heart of the Portes du Soleil, one of the world's largest ski areas. For over 20 years, we've been helping individuals, families and groups create unforgettable memories on the mountain through personalised ski lessons, expert coaching and exceptional customer service.

Our team combines extensive teaching experience with a genuine passion for skiing, creating lessons that are supportive, enjoyable and tailored to every individual.

About TSI

Our story

The Snow Institute was founded in 2006 by Maurice Duffy and Sally Lee-Duffy. Both are passionate about skiing, teaching and feel incredibly privileged to share that passion in the spectacular French Alps. Between them they have taught for over 50 winter seasons in Switzerland, Scotland, Andorra, France, Australia and New Zealand, gaining experience with skiers of all ages and abilities.

Sally and Maurice, owners and founders of The Snow Institute

From the very beginning, our vision was simple, to create a ski school that puts people first. Rather than treating every booking the same, we wanted to offer a more personal experience from start to finish.

Today, those values remain at the heart of everything TSI does, our team are committed to providing supportive coaching, honest advice and memorable experiences both on and off the mountain.

Mikey, Fabio, Ali and Ross having fun on a team day out in Avoriaz

Years in the PDS

Hours taught

People taught

5* Reviews

Our Approach

Ski lessons built around you

Rather than offering a one size fits all experience, we take the time to understand every skier before they arrive. From your age and ability to your confidence, goals and preferred language, this allows us to recommend the lesson and instructor best suited to you.

The better the match, the better the lesson.

Why Choose TSI

What makes us different

British-run ski school

Friendly communication from booking through to your final run.

Experienced instructors

Qualified professionals with years of teaching experience.

Honest advice

If another lesson or duration would suit you better, we'll tell you.

Personalised coaching

Lessons designed around your goals, not a fixed programme.

Great value

Premium coaching at an affordable price.

Small groups

More individual attention and faster progression.

Finding the Right Instructor

Carefully matched to every skier

Every skier is different, which is why we take the time to match you with the instructor best suited to your needs. Whether you're a complete beginner, looking to build confidence, improving your technique or wanting to explore the mountain, we'll carefully consider your age, ability and goals to ensure you get the most from your lesson.

Because we know every instructor personally, we can pair you with someone whose coaching style, personality and experience are the perfect fit, helping you feel relaxed, supported and ready to enjoy your time on the slopes.

Maurice Duffy checking out the view on Mont Chery

Meet the team

Get to know your TSI Instructor

Meet the experienced, friendly instructors who make every TSI lesson enjoyable, supportive and tailored to you.

Trusted by Skiers

Why families return
year after year

Award-winning service
Read all reviews →

Reviews

Why families return
year after year

Award-winning service
Read all reviews →

Friendly & Supportive

Find your perfect lesson

Planning your first ski holiday, returning to improve your technique or looking for a memorable experience in the Portes du Soleil, we'd love to help you make the most of your time on the mountain.

Explore our range of ski lessons or get in touch with our friendly team to find the perfect option for you.