Val di Fiemme Ski Trip: A Week to Remember ⛷️
Last week, a group of students from years 7 to 13 travelled to the stunning Val di Fiemme in Italy for what proved to be an outstanding and unforgettable school ski trip.
Led by Mr Murray (Assistant Headteacher for Personal Development), and supported by Mr Whiteley (Headteacher), alongside Mr Wood, Mr Taylor and Mr Power, the trip combined exceptional skiing conditions, cultural experiences and fantastic opportunities for personal development.
Val di Fiemme is made up of three distinct ski areas, all of which the group explored across the week. Students skied at Pampeago on days 1 and 4, Bellamonte on days 2 and 3, and Alp Cermis on the final day. Conditions were quite simply the best seen in the resort for over a decade, with excellent snow and plenty of deep powder, providing both challenge and excitement – and, inevitably, a few laughs and tumbles along the way.
The group was split into four ski groups: two beginner groups, one intermediate and one advanced. Many of the intermediate and advanced skiers had attended the previous school ski trip to Austria in 2025, and it was fantastic to see the progress they had made. The sixth form students, in particular, were exemplary role models throughout the week, supporting younger pupils both on and off the slopes.
Despite the inevitable knocks that come with a demanding week of skiing, injuries were managed exceptionally well by experienced staff, allowing students to continue developing their technique on nursery slopes before being reintegrated into lessons. A real highlight came on the final day, when every single student was skiing – a brilliant achievement and a testament to the resilience and support shown across the group.
Away from the slopes, the accommodation played a huge part in the success of the trip. The four-star hotel offered excellent facilities, including a high-quality buffet restaurant with a wide range of food choices and its own swimming pool. Students enjoyed private access to the pool on two evenings, one of which featured an unforgettable water polo match between KS3/KS4 and the sixth form, refereed by Mr Murray. In a thrilling contest, the younger students edged a dramatic 10–9 victory!
Other evening highlights included a private cinema experience, which provided a calm and relaxed change of pace, and an authentic pizza night in town. A walk around Cavalese on Thursday allowed students to explore the local area, pick up souvenirs and prepare for the long coach journey home.
Thursday was also awards day. Students received ski awards and medals following the morning slalom races, before a series of awards celebrated achievements such as Best Skier and Best Rooms. Room inspections throughout the week were themed – sport, Italy and Winter Olympics – and students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, creativity and music (including a memorable rendition of the Italian national anthem).
Mr Murray also took bragging rights by winning the staff ski race – a result that has already become part of school folklore.
Most importantly, the week highlighted the character of our students. It was fantastic to see how the boys developed in confidence, independence and teamwork, mixing across year groups and supporting one another throughout the trip. They were a real credit to themselves, their families and the school.
Following the success of this trip, plans are already underway to build on the experience next year, with opportunities for both more experienced skiers and complete beginners to take part.
A truly exceptional week – one that will be remembered for a very long time.
