Andorra Mandates Minimum Ski Sessions for Subsidized Escort Passes

Andorra's Education Ministry has clarified the rules for subsidized ski passes for escorts accompanying students on school ski days, emphasizing a minimum participation requirement to maintain eligibility.

Accompanyants—such as teachers, family members, or external volunteers—must join at least five of the seven scheduled sessions per season. Officials conduct a review at season's end to verify compliance; those falling short will lose access to the subsidized pass the following year.

This year's updated school ski regulations standardize three-hour lessons with qualified instructors, marking a 50% increase in contracted hours from previous terms. Once session times are set, each school's administration organizes the rest of the day based on the number of escorts, student needs, and site-specific factors.

To support smooth operations, the School Ski Service provides free day passes to all participating students and adults without a season pass. The minimum escort ratio is one per ten students, rising to one per five in the first cycle of primary education. There, teaching staff supervise pupils before and during lessons. In the second and third cycles, fewer escorts allow teachers to use those hours for piste coordination, lunch, or skiing themselves.

The government, in partnership with Ski Andorra, offers season passes valid across all Andorran resorts at a discounted rate. School directors plan the ski days, authorize eligible individuals, and request passes on their behalf. The service grants these based on a commitment to participate, whether skiing with children or handling logistics like bus supervision, equipment management, or assisting with fatigue or injuries.

Support staff for students with disabilities receive the same treatment as other escorts. Schools can request additional passes as needed, and the ministry is open to approving them. Unlike prior years, the School Ski Service has not received direct requests from the Fundació Privada Nostra Senyora de Meritxell this season.