We book hundreds of ski lessons each season for our clients, and alongside earlier advice on preparing your child for lessons, another key consideration for families new to skiing is whether private or group lessons are the right fit.
The answer isn't the same for everyone. Some clients love the social aspects and camaraderie of a group lesson, while others thrive on personalised feedback and speedy progress. But, how much faster can you progress? Is it possible to establish specific goals for each lesson?
In this blog, Guy Coles, New Generation Ski and Snowboard School's Commercial Director and Ski Instructor, explains the pros and cons of private vs group ski lessons so you can make the best choice for your ski trip.
Private ski lessons: Pros and Cons
Pros of private ski lessons
1. Fully personalised ski coaching
If you are looking for lessons tailored to you, this is the best option. Your instructor will check out your level and focus on your technique and goals. Want to work on carving? Confidence? Steeps? You choose, it’s all about what you need and can realistically achieve during your lesson.
2. Faster progress
You can improve more quickly in private lessons, as you receive constant feedback. You’ll ski more runs, get more corrections, and build muscle memory faster.
3. Confidence boost
Many skiers feel more comfortable asking questions one-on-one. This supportive environment leads to gaining confidence.
4. Ideal for specific goals
Private lessons are great if you are looking to improve something specific. For example, powder skiing.
Cons of private ski lessons
1. Higher costs
Private lessons are more expensive than group lessons, and this can be a deciding factor for families or longer trips. Private lessons cost around €100 per hour, while group lessons cost approximately €30 per hour. However, if you split a private instructor among five people, the cost drops to per €20 person, per hour - comparable to group rates with all the personalisation.
2. Less social interaction
If you're looking to meet new people with similar skiing skills or interests, private lessons might not be the best option for you.
3. Intense focus
Some skiers might find the constant attention tiring, particularly beginners who might need short breaks.
I recommend reading our skiing checklist for beginners.
Group ski lessons: Pros and Cons
Pros of group ski lessons
1. More budget-friendly
Group lessons are significantly cheaper than private lessons. This is a great option for beginners or anyone skiing on a budget.
2. Social and fun
Learning with a group can be motivating and fun. Many skiers make friends and end up skiing with them for the rest of their holiday.
3. Learn by watching others
Seeing others improving or making mistakes can help concepts click faster.
4. Great for beginners
Group lessons can feel less intimidating and more relaxed in the early stages.
Cons of group ski lessons
1. Less individual focus
Instructors have to divide their time, so feedback may be limited compared to private lessons.
2. Fixed pace
Groups move at the pace of the majority; you might feel held back or rushed.
3. Less flexibility
Group lessons usually follow a plan, so you might not just focus on your personal goals.
What happens in the first lesson?
- Whether you book a private or group lesson, your first lesson usually includes:
- A short introduction and goal discussion
- A level assessment on an appropriate slope
- Safety briefing and equipment check
- Foundational technical work
- Clear feedback and next steps
In private lessons, this process moves quickly and becomes highly tailored.
In group lessons, instructors ensure everyone is comfortable before progressing.
Other factors to consider
- Group size is important - Groups of six to eight people are ideal as they allow for better attention and feedback. As the group size increases, individual feedback becomes less effective.
- Skill level matching - Group lessons work best when everyone's at the same level. Look for ski schools that offer detailed level guides and a wide range of groups.
- Age of children - Kids under 10 years old: Usually thrive in groups, as these are playful and social, so they keep them motivated. Kids between 10 and 14 years old: Group work goes well unless there are confidence issues. Teens: Dislike skiing with younger kids, so look for specific teen groups, or consider adult groups or private lessons. Check out the article on the benefits of group ski lessons for kids.
- Language considerations - It’s important to consider the language in which the lessons are delivered. For example, at New Generation we're proud of our diverse, fun, and friendly international team. All their instructors speak good English, and most importantly, they have experience teaching in English. They also have other language skills, should you require them.
Which ski lesson option is the best for you?
Book GROUP lessons if:
- First-time skier or beginner
- Budget-conscious
- Enjoy social learning
- Travelling solo and want to meet people
- Children under 10 (they love group energy)
Book PRIVATE lessons if:
- Returning to skiing after 5+ years
- Specific fear/confidence issue to overcome
- Advanced skier wanting off-piste/performance technique
- Travelling with 2-4 people at the same level (cost-share)
- Tight schedule (maximise progress in 1-2 days)
When you book with Oxford Ski Company and New Generation, we'll ask about your skiing background, goals, and budget, then recommend the best lesson format for your trip.
Insider tips for booking ski lessons
We recommend booking early for group lessons during school holidays, as spots fill up five months in advance for the February/Easter breaks. Private instructors are even more limited.
Morning lessons are usually more popular than afternoon ones.
So, group ski lesson or private ski lesson?
The best choice depends on how you prefer to learn, what goals you want to achieve, and how much flexibility you want on the mountain.
Whichever option you choose, having professional instruction, private or group, is one of the fastest ways to ski better, safer, and with a lot more confidence.
Unsure what to book? Ask your Oxford Ski Company Experience Team member and they'll guide you to the perfect option that suits your needs, ensuring you have the most memorable and treasured holiday in the mountains.
