Meet the Team
our team
at the centre of the collective is our exceptional team, hand picked to ensure you receive the very best of care from the minute you arrive in zermatt
we're a close-knit team of fully qualified ski and snowboard instructors and resort guides, all of whom trained and certified together across the mountains. that shared journey shaped our teaching standards, our attention to detail, and our belief in what a premium zermatt experience should be.
we work as one team, which means seamless days on the mountain — whether you're booking private ski lessons, family experiences, or expert resort guiding without formal instruction.
every member of our team holds full, internationally recognised qualifications, allowing us to confidently guide and coach guests of all ages and abilities across the entire zermatt-cervinia ski area.
for our guests, it's never just about skiing. we take care of every detail: equipment rental, meeting points, pacing the day, photo opportunities, restaurant recommendations and lunch reservations, border crossings into italy, and adapting plans to conditions in real time.
whether you're travelling as a family, a private group of friends, or simply want a local professional to show you the best of zermatt, our goal is to deliver a smooth, relaxed, and unforgettable day in the mountains.
Emma Spruce
Ski Instructor
started teaching: 2014
qualifications
- • Swiss Snowsports Brevet Fédéral
- • BASI Level 4
- • BASI Trainer
experience
- • 3seasons in Zermatt, Switzerland
- • 2seasons in Thredbo, Australia
- • 8seasons in Val d'Isère, France
- • 1season in Queenstown, New Zealand
- • 1season in Turoa, New Zealand
My love for skiing started young, when I learnt to slide as soon as I could walk. I feel very grateful that my passion has become my career! I have spent the last 11 years developing my skills and qualifications within ski instructing to enable me to deliver the best possible experience for anyone of any level wanting to develop their skills on the mountain! I know all the best spots in Zermatt to give you the ultimate holiday. My teaching style encourages development in a relaxed, fun and supportive environment.
Casey Purdie
Ski Instructor
started teaching: 2015
qualifications
- • Swiss Snowsports Brevet Fédéral
- • BASI Level 4
- • NZSIA Trainer
- • Swiss Snowsports School Director
experience
- • 7seasons in Zermatt, Switzerland
- • 3seasons in Perisher, Australia
- • 1season in Niseko, Japan
- • 4seasons in Aosta, Italy
- • 2seasons in Queenstown, New Zealand
Skiing is more than a job for me, it's my entire life. Born in Scotland, I was introduced to skiing at the age of 3 by my parents. After my first season, I got hooked on the mountain lifestyle and my 'gap year' soon got extended.
Having spent the last 10 seasons teaching and coordinating in Italy, Japan, Australia & Switzerland, I am beyond privileged to say that snowsports is my career. I've recently stepped away from years of working in snowsports operations to return to my true passion of teaching and delivering training to avid skiers.
Lessons with me are whatever you'd like them to be. Whether you're looking for fun and interactive lessons for your children, you're a bit nervous and would like to build confidence and skills steadily or if you're fired up and ready to shred the entire mountain – I can help you become a better version of your current skiing self.
I know Zermatt through and through and can't wait to show you all it has to offer on and off the slopes.
Niamh Gale
Snowboard Instructor
started teaching: 2013
qualifications
- • Swiss Snowsports IK+VT+TR
- • BASI ISIA
- • IASI Trainer
experience
- • 7seasons in Zermatt, Switzerland
- • 3seasons in Perisher, Australia
- • 1season in Niseko, Japan
- • 4seasons in Banff, Canada
I have always loved the mountains, only truly discovering just how much when I ditched the skis, age 17 and swapped them for a snowboard. I absolutely adored it from the offset and knew almost instantly a life in the mountains, riding every day would be the only path I'd follow.
Over the last 10 years I've ridden and taught in some of the world's most incredible resorts including Canada, Japan, Australia & now Switzerland. From my many years of experience, I've grown to know what works for different guests and the best way to make you improve no matter your age, gender, background or specific goals.
Ally France-Hayhurst
Ski Instructor
started teaching: 2014
qualifications
- • Swiss Snowsports Brevet Fédéral
- • BASI ISIA
I have been a qualified ski instructor since 2014, and have skied across the European Alps and Australia. I have extensive experience teaching people of all ages and experience levels. As a ski instructor I enjoy helping my clients build their confidence and reach their personal skiing goals, whether that be completing their first blue run; shredding off piste; or being able to ski to your favourite restaurant for lunch. There is no goal too big or small, lessons with me are centred around you.
need additional instructors?
if you have a large group that requires more instructors, we work closely with other independent teachers that we can arrange to join us!