News

Twickenham School Ski Trip: Austria 2026

Over the Easter Break, 42 students and 6 staff set off from Twickenham School on a coach bound for Austria, ready for a week of skiing and fresh mountain air. The long journey was quickly forgotten once students arrived in the town of Golling where they were met with snow-covered slopes and the promise of a week very different from the classroom.

Students spent their days skiing on the slopes of Alpendorf mountain, making impressive progress regardless of their starting point. They were split into four groups based on ability, ensuring that everyone was both supported and challenged. For some, this was their very first experience on skis — including students who had never even stepped onto a dry slope before. By the end of the trip, many of these beginners were confidently making their way down the mountain. At the other end of the spectrum, more experienced skiers were pushing themselves on challenging red runs and even attempting a few black runs, showing real determination and skill.

A key part of the success of the trip was the quality of instruction. Each group had its own dedicated ski instructor, allowing students to receive focused guidance and build their confidence quickly. This personalised support meant that every student was able to improve at their own pace, whether that meant mastering the basics or refining more advanced techniques.

Evenings offered a chance to relax and enjoy time together off the slopes. Students headed out for pizza, year 10 studnets hosted a quiz night, took part in a lively mini golf trip, and visited the nearby city of Salzburg, where they explored the local area and enjoyed a bit of shopping. These moments gave students the opportunity to unwind, socialise, and make the most of the experience beyond skiing itself.

Throughout the trip, students demonstrated resilience, enthusiasm, and a willingness to try something new — whether that meant tackling a difficult slope or simply getting back up after a fall (which, predictably, happened more than once). The combination of challenge, achievement, and shared experience made it a memorable week for everyone involved.

By the time the coach returned to Twickenham, students were tired, slightly sore, and significantly more confident than when they left. Most importantly, they had had a genuinely enjoyable experience — the kind that stays with them long after the snow has melted.