Over the half‑term break, a group of Shiplake pupils headed to Voss, Norway, for this year’s much‑anticipated ski trip — and with an impressive 27 hours spent on the slopes, it certainly didn’t disappoint.
From the moment they arrived, pupils were met with the breathtaking scenery of snow‑covered mountains and frozen lakes. The first full day of skiing set the tone for an action‑packed week. Equipped with skis and helmets, groups headed out with their instructors to begin learning (or refining) their technique. Lunch offered a taste of Norwegian cuisine, featuring the memorable pairing of boiled potatoes and bolognaise sauce.
As the week went on, confidence grew across the group. By day three, pupils were attempting new challenges, from 180‑degree jumps to trying their hand at skiing backwards — with only a few tumbles and plenty of laughter along the way. The beginner group made tremendous progress, successfully navigating green and blue runs by the end of the day. When pupils weren’t skiing, they stayed busy with a packed schedule of evening activities including Danish longball, bowling, a fiercely contested quiz. Bowling proved particularly entertaining, with many deciding they were far better balanced on skis than on the lanes.
A highlight for many was the night‑skiing session. An unforgettable experience that brought the entire group together under floodlit slopes and showcased the fantastic range of ability across the school. The final day on the mountain gave everyone a chance to put their newly honed skills into practice. There was a mix of tricky runs, bold attempts at new tricks, and a shared reluctance to say goodbye to both the slopes and their instructors.
Before heading home, pupils spent some time exploring Voss town centre and visiting local shops — a welcome chance to soak in more of Norwegian culture before the journey back to the UK.
The group expressed their gratitude to Ms Neill, Mr Jones, Ms Povey and Mr Pettifer for organising and leading such an incredible trip — and for ensuring everyone remained safe, punctual, and in one piece throughout the week.
