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The Collective
The Collective Zermatt instructors

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

Emma Spruce

Ski Instructor & Founder

started teaching: 2014

qualifications

  • • Swiss Brevet Fédéral
  • • BASI Level 4
  • • BASI Trainer

Emma founded The Collective in 2018 with a simple vision: a small team of the best instructors, offering only private lessons, in the best ski resort in the world. Originally from the UK, Emma has been teaching in Zermatt since 2014 and holds the Swiss Brevet Fédéral and BASI Level 4 — two of the highest ski teaching qualifications in the world. She is also a BASI Trainer, helping to develop the next generation of instructors. Emma specialises in all-mountain skiing, from carving on groomers to off-piste powder.

Casey Purdie

Casey Purdie

Ski Instructor

started teaching: 2015

qualifications

  • • Swiss Brevet Fédéral
  • • BASI Level 4
  • • NZSIA Trainer
  • • Swiss School Director

Casey brings a truly international perspective to his teaching, having trained and qualified in three countries. He holds the Swiss Brevet Fédéral, BASI Level 4, and is an NZSIA Trainer. Casey is also a Swiss Ski School Director, one of the few non-Swiss nationals to hold this distinction. Based in Zermatt since 2015, Casey is known for his patient, methodical approach that builds real, lasting improvement. Whether you're a nervous beginner or an advanced skier, Casey will find the right approach.

Niamh Gale

Niamh Gale

Snowboard Instructor

started teaching: 2013

qualifications

  • • Swiss IK+VT+TR
  • • BASI ISIA
  • • IASI Trainer

Niamh is our snowboard specialist and one of the most qualified snowboard instructors in Switzerland. She holds the Swiss IK+VT+TR (the full Swiss qualification pathway), BASI ISIA, and is an IASI Trainer. Niamh has been riding and teaching in Zermatt since 2013, making her one of the longest-serving members of the team. Her infectious enthusiasm and technical expertise make her equally at home teaching a first-timer as she is coaching an advanced rider through the park or backcountry.

Ally France-Hayhurst

Ally France-Hayhurst

Ski Instructor

started teaching: 2014

qualifications

  • • Swiss Brevet Fédéral
  • • BASI ISIA

Ally is a passionate and highly qualified ski instructor who has called Zermatt home since 2014. She holds the Swiss Brevet Fédéral and BASI ISIA certifications. Ally is known for her warm, encouraging teaching style that puts even the most nervous students at ease. She has a particular talent for helping intermediate skiers break through plateaus and discover a new level of confidence and ability on the mountain.

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!