It was an early start for our skiers as we left very early on a wet and windy Sunday. What a contrast in Milan! The sun was shining as we made our way to Sauze D’Oulx, stopping for lunch on the way at a pizzeria…the holiday had begun. On arrival at Hotel Des Amis pupils had their ski fit, unpacked and an early night. It was needed!

We met our ski instructors on day one followed by a lesson and our first experience of skiing in Sauze D’Oulx. We met for lunch at Hotel Triplex, at the centre of the pistes, then explored some of the ski slopes for the rest of the day. Our evenings entertainment was provided by Mrs Smith. Teams of pupils competed against each other, guessing objects from descriptions, balloon popping, ‘TikToking’ and Floss Pong – an hilarious evening.

The lessons and exploring continued. Sauze D’Oulx is on the Italian side of the Milky Way ski area, offering 400 km of piste. The intermediate and advance skiers spent afternoons exploring the vast region and dropping into neighbouring resorts of Sestriere and Sansicario, accompanied by stunning views and sunshine. The beginners practised their skiing technique and built their confidence on blue slopes, tackling more difficult red runs towards the end of the week. A highlight of everyday was visiting mountainside cafes for crepes and hot chocolate – a well deserved treat after a full days skiing.

Our evenings were spent both in the hotel and in the town of Sauze, which was quite a hike, another leg burning challenge! Rewards included a visit to a local arcade to play pool, table tennis and table football. Pupils won various prizes including Edward’s much loved inflatable shoes which accompanied him for the rest of the week. Aspiring vocalists entertained us at the karaoke bar and we dined in a local pizzeria. Our ski trip wouldn’t be complete without a quiz night. Oakhill Ski Team each host a round of questions for teams of pupils exercising our brains, giving our legs a rest!