About Ian
Described by one client as "like a Jedi Master" and by another as "one of the most elite ski instructing operators either side of the Ural Mountains — swift like the coursing river and wise like an ancient oak," Ian brings 23 years of experience and a deeply personal approach to every lesson.
He specialises in reading what each skier needs — whether that's overcoming anxiety, unlocking a technical plateau, or simply having the best possible day on the mountain. His clients consistently highlight his patience, warmth, and ability to work with wildly mixed ability groups, from complete beginners to those tackling their first black run. He aims to teach entirely through the building of positive experiences.
Ian is equally at home teaching children their first snowplough turns, guiding families through the trees on off-piste adventures that Courmayeur is famous for, or delivering biomechanics-led technical coaching for advanced skiers. He's also an expert on Courmayeur itself — expect insider tips on the best mountain restaurants and hidden vin chaud or hot chocolate stops.
With a 4.98 rating across 72 reviews, Ian's track record speaks for itself. But it's the return bookings and the messages like "best instructor ever" that matter most.
Availability
Greyed-out dates are fully booked. Pick a date to see what's free.
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In Action
Off-Piste Adventures
Loving the freshies
Freeride fun
Wild powder
First tracks
Improving in powder
Explore with increased safety
Hidden powder with Ian
Getting steeper
All levels
Exploring the environment
Ready, steady, go!
Adaptive Skiing
Skiing for everyone
Inclusive snowsport
Visual impairment lesson
Unparalleled achievement
Clear and simple guiding
Athlete learning a new sport
Athlete learning a new sport
Beyond the Slopes
Trail running in the Montblanc mountain range
Baltic Islands Swim Run Race
Night half marathon at sunset
Ian delivers exceptional lessons in:
What Clients Say
"Ian was like a Jedi Master. He immediately understood exactly what we needed. He challenged the kids straight away, taking them off piste to tackle the Smurf and Gargamel runs. It was brilliant for building confidence — and great fun too."
"One of the most elite ski instructing operators either side of the Ural Mountains. A true gentleman of the alps. Swift like the coursing river and wise like an ancient oak. He drastically improved my skiing from beginner/intermediate to skiing a few black runs by the end of our 5hrs lessons. One of the realest in the game."
"Made me feel less anxious within the first 5 minutes of meeting. In only a few hours, I improved so much and felt way more confident on the slopes. By the end I even managed a red run."
"An excellent patient teacher and after being a forever beginner I finally feel I made progress and built my confidence."
"Ian gave us clear, easy to follow drills and made the whole experience really fun. He knew the mountains perfectly — especially the great restaurants and vin chaud stops."
"With understanding, patience and humour he got me to work through all my issues. My skiing totally changed as a result. Charming, amusing and great company on the slopes."