The mountains are calling and I must go…..with holiday hoodies worn with pride, 48 pupils and 6 staff climbed aboard the coach for the 26 hour ride to the ski resort of Les Orres in the Southern Alps. A Dover to Dunkirk ferry ride broke up the trip and after a restful sleep for most, we were soon driving up the winding roads of the mountains where the excitement increased.

It was worth the slightly uncomfortable journey as on our arrival, we were treated to sunny blue skies and white snowy mountains and what would prove to be a wonderful week of skiing. With two beginner groups, an intermediate group and two advanced ski groups, everybody was fully catered for, and on our first full day on the mountains we all enjoyed exploring the variety of 36 runs available for all skiers. Boots and ski’s fitted - tick, carrying all the equipment - tick, suntan lotion applied - tick and a system created to maximise efficiency of getting to the slopes on time - tick, the pupils had nailed the HZG routine by Day 2! Through Michael’s superb ski instruction, the beginner group made quick progress down a gentle incline in the form of a wide snow plough whilst the advanced groups covered carver turns, red runs and reminded themselves of controlled parallel turns performed with grace and precision.

The magic carpet travellator allowed for the introduction of a steeper slope as a challenge for the beginners and after navigating ski lifts to perfection, within a matter of days, all groups were experiencing the boarder cross racetrack and the more confident attempting the 360’ jumps in the ski park. The progress was quite remarkable, and it was incredible to watch some skiers start with minimal ability and within days be confidently scaling the mountains following our fabulous ESF instructors. The scenery was incredible, vast mysterious white mountains standing shoulder to shoulder across the skyline. We stopped in awe to witness the beauty of Les Orres and the quiet, secluded mountains that we almost had all to ourselves.

The Après ski proved to be just as much fun as the skiing. Karaoke nights, pool table, cards, board and table games, resort shopping, the luge, town trail and crepe night. It was a real delight to share social time together chatting about the experiences in the mountain each day over a French meal each evening. The stunning sunny weather enabled us to eat a cooked meal alfresco each lunchtime at La Portette Hotel. We were even lucky to have fresh snow halfway through the week, allowing the children to experience skiing in fresh powder the very next day. The pupils were able to use their French in conversation with their instructor, in the hotel, ski shop and around town.

The Hazlegrove pupils attending the ski trip this year were a superb group, the children were respectful, kind, brave and fun and it was a real delight to ski the mountains alongside them. It was a pleasure to lead such a successful trip and I look forward to organising another!