Fresh snow, bright sunshine and remarkable progress on the slopes combined to make this year’s ski trip to Les Menuires a truly memorable experience for our students and staff. From first-time skiers to experienced groups tackling black runs, students embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and determination.
Our Easer holiday ski trip to Les Menuires offered students the opportunity to challenge themselves, develop new skills and enjoy time together in a stunning alpine setting.
A group of over 60 students travelled to the French resort, where they were accompanied by a team of Bartholomew staff. Following a long but smooth journey, students arrived in resort and quickly settled into their accommodation, completing ski fitting before an early night. The next morning, they were greeted by fresh snowfall and a hearty breakfast – the perfect start to their first day on the slopes.
From the outset, students approached the experience with enthusiasm and determination. Instructors were quick to praise their positive attitude and willingness to learn, particularly among our beginner skiers. Within just a few days, beginners progressed from the base area to green and blue runs, with many reaching a key milestone: moving from ‘pizza’ turns to parallel skiing.
As one student reflected: “I was really nervous at the start, but by the end of the week I was skiing from the top of the mountain – I couldn’t believe how much we improved.”
By the end of the trip, all beginner groups were confidently using chairlifts and gondolas, skiing from heights of up to 2800 metres and taking in breathtaking views across the mountains.
Intermediate groups explored the wider resort, including a memorable 5km descent from the top of the mountain, which took around an hour to complete and tested both skill and stamina. Meanwhile, our most experienced skiers embraced the challenge of black runs and snow parks, pushing themselves with confidence and energy.
Mr Jones commented, “The progress the students have made this week has been exceptional. What has stood out most is their resilience and willingness to support one another – they have been a real credit to the school.”
Snow conditions throughout the week were excellent, with fresh powder in the early days followed by clear skies and sunshine, allowing students to fully appreciate the spectacular alpine scenery.
Evenings provided a valuable opportunity to relax and enjoy time together. Highlights included a tobogganing trip, karaoke (with some memorable performances from both students and staff), a quiz, a snowman-building competition and a lively talent show. These moments helped to build a strong sense of community and ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Throughout the trip, students demonstrated maturity, kindness and excellent conduct. They supported one another, embraced new challenges and made the most of every opportunity, both on and off the slopes.
As the trip drew to a close, there was a real sense of achievement and many lasting memories. It was a wonderful week of challenge, friendship and personal growth - and one that students will undoubtedly look back on with pride for years to come.
