Off to the Alps 

In early February, an intrepid group of thirty nine children and four adults made their way to the beautiful Swiss Alps for the Junior School Ski Trip. The excitement was palpable during the coach journey from Geneva to our final destination, Anzere, as many of our travellers were seeing snow for the first time in the flesh.

Over the years we have become accustomed to picturesque vistas from our chalet, which looks down over the town of Sion. This year, however, the weather did not co-operate as it usually does. Low cloud and high winds made for difficult skiing conditions over the first two days, but the children rose to the challenge, no matter their previous skiing ability. As the week progressed (all too quickly) the conditions and our prowess on the slopes had a very definite upward trend. Widespread media reports about poor skiing conditions across Europe this winter were, luckily, wildly inaccurate. If anything, we almost had too much snow!

It was a privilege to lead this school trip and take the children overseas, for many it will be the first time away from parents. I have nothing but praise for the way the children conducted themselves – the chaperones from St Chris and the Viamonde staff at the chalet were all very proud to work with this group of Year 5 and 6s.

There were too many highlights to share with you, but I think it’s safe to say that in the course of our eight days away, many lifelong memories were made. Roll on Anzere 2017!