From the 18th to the 25th January 2025, a group of 30 pupil and students embarked on an exciting ski trip to the renowned 3 Valleys resort in Les Menuires. This annual adventure took place at the Les Skilt Hotel, which was provided by Ski Bound, offering the boys a comfortable and convenient base for their skiing activities.
The participating pupils hailed from Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, and, for the first time, Year 12. Three Year 12 students joined the trip after having previously visited the resort in Year 10, adding a touch of nostalgia and experience to the group.
Of the 30 boys, eight had skied before, with some returning for the third consecutive year, while 22 were new to skiing, making it their first experience on the slopes. This mix of beginners and experienced skiers ensured that each boy received tailored instruction from qualified ESF ski instructors.
The trip was led by a dedicated team of staff members: Will Hogg, Head of Physical Education; Matthew Turner, Head of Sixth Form; and Daniel Shuttleworth, Maths Teacher and Level 3 ESF Ski badge holder. Their expertise and leadership ensured the safety and enjoyment of all participants throughout the trip.
This marks the third consecutive year the school has visited Les Menuires and stayed at the Les Skilt Hotel. The long-standing partnership with the resort continues to provide students with an exceptional skiing experience.
The itinerary for the trip was designed to balance skiing and après-ski activities. Each day, pupils enjoyed two hours of skiing in the morning and two hours in the afternoon, under the guidance of skilled instructors. Over the course of six days, the boys had the opportunity to hone their skills on the slopes while enjoying the stunning Alpine scenery.
In addition to skiing, a variety of après-ski activities were planned. These included a winter Olympics event, a visit to the sports centre for basketball, badminton, and table tennis, and a thrilling ride on the mini single-cart rollercoaster known as La Mine. On Thursday evening, the boys were treated to a spectacular fireworks display, and on the final night, Mr. Shuttleworth hosted an awards ceremony where pupils received personalised awards based on nominations from the teaching staff.
Trips like these are invaluable for personal development. The ski trip provides an opportunity to build independence and organisational skills, as the boys navigate life in a foreign country and interact with peers and staff in a new environment. The experience also fosters personal growth, helping each boy to mature by encouraging him to step outside of his comfort zones and embrace different cultures and lifestyles.
This annual ski trip remains a highlight of the school calendar, offering an unforgettable experience and helping them develop both as individuals and as a group. And we look forward to returning in 2026!
