Snowsports Experience - April 2015

During the latter half of the Easter holidays, 46 students and staff travelled to Alpe D’Huez in the French Alps. For the first time ever, we had a mix of Skiers and Snowboarders  - two very different, but equally challenging activities.

We enjoyed seamless outward and return coach journeys with Greys travel, the highlight of which was the famous 26 hairpin bend climb up to the resort!

Alpe D’Huez is a fantastic resort and provided us with more than enough challenges and some spectacular views over the Alps.

Our weather was generally excellent and never cold, though we did face the indignity of rain one day, compensated for by snow and sun on the final day. As ever, Snowsports pushed both Staff and Students, physically and mentally. Age and ability were irrelevant and the whole group worked together really well to form a tight and resilient, mutually supportive community.  

The students were excellent company all week, and all had a fantastic learning experience which I hope will stay with them for many years to come.  

This year’s trip is well summed up by one of our Year 11 students: 

‘Snowsports was the best experience ever, and the perfect way to finish at Calthorpe’.

And from a parent:

‘From a parent's point of view, it was very good value for money, and the best bit was that Mr Edwards organised absolutely everything - all we had to do was check that the passport and EHIC were in date and read his emails - oh and a bit of packing... What more could a parent ask for - a fantastic opportunity for their son/daughter to experience skiing without having to risk their own cruciate ligaments?!’