During their half-term break from February 15th to 22nd, our Year 11 pupils embarked on an unforgettable ski trip to the stunning resort of Pila in Italy’s Aosta Valley. The trip, organised in partnership with specialist ski company Interski, saw 38 pupils and six dedicated staff members travel by coach for a week of adventure, skill-building, and fun in the snow.
Preparation at Pendle Ski Club
Before setting off for Italy, pupils took part in preparatory skiing lessons at Pendle Ski Club. Under the expert guidance of both club instructors and school staff, they honed their skiing techniques, ensuring they were well-prepared to tackle the slopes of Pila with confidence.
“I attended the ski trip along with many other pupils. It was clear that we had an amazing time, each day being filled with various activities to keep us busy. A particular favourite was both the bowling and the disco, these provided a perfect end to the days of skiing! Overall, this trip was a well needed break from our studies, and I would definitely do it again!”
- Amelie Flynn
A Week of Fun and Learning on the Slopes
On arrival in Italy, the group spent their first day exploring the local town, soaking in the picturesque scenery and getting a taste of Italian culture. The real adventure began the following day, as pupils took to the ski runs each morning, embracing the challenges of the slopes and refining their skills under the instruction of experienced ski instructors.
Beyond the skiing, the evenings were packed with entertainment and social activities. Pupils enjoyed games, visited local arcades, 10 pin bowling, danced at a lively disco, and indulged in authentic Italian cuisine at a traditional pizza restaurant.
“The ski trip was the best trip I have been on! I had never been skiing before but that didn’t matter because we had an amazing instructor and by the end we were on the red slopes. My favourite memory was either Tom’s famous worm at the disco or our unhinged late conversations on the coach. Since we have come back, nearly everyone has said once ‘we wish we could go back’. I would recommend the trip to anyone, whether you’ve skied before or not, you will have a great time.”
- Holly Bleasdale
A Fantastic Achievement
As the trip came to a close, pupils were presented with certificates to celebrate the remarkable progress they had made in their skiing ability. These awards, given by their instructors, recognised their dedication, determination, and enthusiasm throughout the week.
Staff members accompanying the group were full of praise for the pupils, commending their behaviour, resilience, and positive attitude. Their engagement and teamwork made the trip an outstanding success and a true credit to the school.
"Another successful Ski Trip took place during the February half-term, in the sunny Aosta Valley. 38 year 11 pupils enjoyed a week of learning or refining the tricky skill of skiing, in the beautiful resort of Pila. All pupils worked extremely hard and their instructors were impressed with their progression. Our groups were able to access a wide range of the mountain, with views of Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. At the end of the week, the ski instructors visited pupils at the hotel for an awards ceremony, in which they were all given certificates and badges. Throughout the week pupils also enjoyed a variety of apres-ski, including pizza night, bowling and a disco. Our pupils represented school impeccably, as they always do and were an absolute pleasure to spend the week with. We had comments from our travel co-ordinator, the hotel staff and instructors on the polite, friendly, and resilient nature of our pupils."
- Mrs Stott, trip leader
The Year 11 ski trip to Pila was an experience to remember, providing pupils with not only new skills but also lasting memories and friendships. We look forward to seeing future year groups enjoy similar adventures on the slopes!