A TEENAGER who had never been on skis until three years ago has qualified to teach on the slopes of Europe and the US.

Georgina Maxwell, of Reeth, North Yorkshire, was among a group of six successful Sport, Leisure and Tourism students at Darlington College of Technology, the only establishment in Europe to offer such a ski programme. The 19-year-old hopes to become a ski instructor during the winter and an outdoor education teacher for the rest of the year.

"Skiing is amazing, it's good fun and keeps you fit. I think it will make a great career," said Georgina.

She was one of three students to gain the internationally recognised American Ski Instructor's Award - for the first time in the college's history - allowing them to instruct across the Atlantic.

Russell Smith, of Thirsk, has already made plans to try to secure a job in Calgary, Canada, as a result of his success.

"I'm going in September to become a ski instructor in the Canadian Rockies. I was desperate to get the qualification and it means I can now apply for my visa and get a job there," said the 17-year-old.

Charolotte Wilson, 17, of North Cowton, who also gained the qualification, said: "I want to instruct and travel. I would like to be able to go back to Canada, it's gorgeous."

Three other students gained the English Ski Council's Alpine Ski Leaders Awards allowing them to work as ski guides in European resorts. They were Kim Follwell, 17, of Barnard Castle, Chris Beattie, 18, and Tom Cuthbertson, 18, both of Darlington.

The courses include instruction in the classroom as well as on the slopes.

Studies comprise skiing, instruction and demonstration techniques. It also covers mountain safety, weather forecasting and first aid.

It is the only chance for candidates to complete an American instructors course on this side of the Atlantic.