Over February half term, two coach-loads of staff and students journeyed to Pila in Italy’s Valle d’Aosta to enjoy a week on the ski slopes. Over half of the group were complete beginners, initially spending more time on their bottoms than on skis! By the end of the week, even the most reluctant had mastered the snowplough, with a few talented novices starting to parallel ski with surprising elegance. The advanced and intermediate skiers conquered black runs and enjoyed some excellent off-piste conditions thanks to fresh powder mid-week. Apres-ski activities included bowling, a quiz night, a disco extravaganza and a pizza feast. On the final night, students were presented with certificates and badges from their ski instructors.