As the Winter Olympics in Beijing came to a close, over 150 Tranby pupils put on their ski suits and headed for the slopes in Gstaad in Switzerland over the February half term.
The Tranby pupils, from Years 5 to 13, enjoyed seven days of skiing in the Swiss Alps. For many, this was their first time skiing and it was the perfect introduction to the winter sport. As well as lunches on the slopes, the pupils enjoyed fantastic après ski activities including ice-skating, swimming and bowling. At the end of the week, the pupils enjoyed an Awards Night and disco.
This was the first overseas trip that Tranby has been able to organise since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic and it presented an excellent opportunity for pupils to make friends across other year groups.
Trip leader, James Windeatt said, ‘’ I am extremely proud to have led the biggest trip the school has ever ran. With all the adversity, doubt and pressure associated with Covid along with travel restrictions threatening to halt the trip, it made it extra special that we were able to provide so many memories, some that will last a lifetime. The pupils were an absolute credit to the school, themselves, and their parents, with so many positive comments commending their behaviour and manners. We had trips, falls and wipe-outs but seeing the amount of fun, laughter and smiles on their faces made the pressures of putting together a trip of this magnitude so worthwhile. I am immensely honoured to have been given the opportunity to run this trip and am grateful for the support of all staff who accompanied it. Now to start planning the next one!
Harry, Year 5 said, ‘’Everything was amazing. It was my first time skiing and I loved every minute. The activities were great fun too.’’
Stanley, Year 5 said, ‘’My favourite part was doing jumps on the slopes. I loved the activities, and it was also my 10th birthday during the trip. The chef made me a cake and everyone sang happy birthday.’’
Will, Year 13 said, ‘’I loved this trip. It was so good to be with children across so many year groups. I go skiing every year. It was so nice to be back on the slopes after not being able to go due to Covid. The staff were all brilliant and I would like to thank Mr Windeatt for organising this trip.’’
Below are some highlights of the trip. Parents and pupils are invited to a film night in the Radcliffe Hall where we will be presenting a short film along with many photographs. More information will follow.