Andorra
On Friday the 26th March 2010 pupils from years 7, 8, 9 and 10 set off on the annual skiing trip to Andorra. Singing, DVD’s and a variety of music kept the excited pupils occupied throughout the 24 hour journey and as the coach arrived in Andorra we were pleased to see blue skies and snow capped mountains.
Each morning the group took the short Gondola ride up to the slopes, which provided an opportunity to take in the breath taking views over Andorra. On the slopes each pupil was dressed to impress in the latest ski wear and their skiing skills were equally as impressive. Each group tackled a variety of runs and were seen whizzing past the teachers on many occasions. The ideal skiing conditions and the excellent tuition from the instructors ensured that each pupil’s technique improved.
By the end of the week pupils were competently using the ski lifts, completing parallel turns and some groups attempted the slalom course. Unfortunately the same could not be said about the teachers, Ms Atwell failed to get off the chair lift on occasions and Miss Woodman was seen walking down one of the slopes after one of her ski’s went to the bottom of the slope without her.
Every evening the delicious food in the Marco Polo hotel filled the pupils’ bellies and gave them the energy to participate in the variety of activities available. Some nights were spent shopping in Andorra town, which gave the pupils chance to buy souvenirs, presents and allowed them to top up their midnight snack supplies. One evening was spent at the Caldea spa. This exquisite venue helped remove the aches and pains from skiing as pupils were able to relax in the Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and swim around in a fountain filled pool. Pupils also had use of the Roman baths and the freezing cold, ice filled plunge pools. On two occasions pupils had exclusive use of the Red Cow pub.
In the pub, pupils were able to watch the Champions league football, catch up with friend’s back home using facebook and they participated in pool and table football competitions. Mr Williams was undefeated table football champion and is aiming to defend his title again next year. The disco at the Red Cow was also a big success and Charlie Heaton and Tamjid Miah were the stars of the show as they got up on the podium and danced to the ‘Macarena’.
Despite coming back very tired form all the excitement and with lots of bruises from the falling over on the slopes, the trip was a huge success and lots of fun was had by both pupils and members of staff.
Thank you to Steve Williams for organising an excellent trip and judging by the standard of skiing this year, we’ll have some Whitchurch high school pupils in the winter Olympics in no time.