A via ferrata instructor is essentially a climbing instructor. Indeed, via ferrata is a derivative of climbing, and the techniques are almost identical. Often, it is a passion for their discipline that drives climbing instructors. Sharing this passion is what makes a great instructor.
The profession of climbing instructor is regulated by the French Sports Code. Until 2013, one needed the BEES (Brevet d’État d’Éducateur Sportif) with a climbing option, equivalent to a high school level, to become a climbing instructor. Today, this has been replaced by the DESJEPS Escalade (Diplôme d’État Supérieur de la Jeunesse, de l’Éducation Populaire et du Sport), which is equivalent to a post-secondary level (BAC+2).
Less specialized degrees, such as a STAPS degree (Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et Sportives), already allow one to supervise climbing at a basic level.
Climbing is also defined by the specific environment in which it is practiced. Accordingly, there are two types of DESJEPS:
DESJEPS Escalade (non-specific environment)
DESJEPS Escalade in natural environments (all types of environments + related practices such as via ferrata)
To become a via ferrata instructor, it is the second option that must be chosen!