Ski Trip 2026

Our recent ski trip to Obertraun, was an unforgettable adventure for both Year 8 and Year 12 students, packed with excitement, challenges, and plenty of laughter from start to finish.

We began our journey at Hammersmith, waving goodbye to parents before embarking on a 25-hour coach trip to Austria. Dressed in our bright pink ski trip hoodies, spirits were high as we travelled via ferry and stopped at several French and German service stations along the way. By the time we arrived, we were greeted by a true winter wonderland.

The next day, we were fitted with our skis and equipment for the first time. Excitement was building as we prepared for our first full day on the slopes. The next morning, wrapped up in our ski gear, we headed out and were split into groups based on ability. Some of us took our first steps on the nursery slopes, learning how to “pizza,” while others were straight onto the chair lifts. After an exhilarating first day of skiing, the excitement continued with a thrilling ride on an alpine rollercoaster!

In only a weekend, our confidence had grown significantly. Many of us had made it higher up the mountain and successfully mastered the ski lifts, despite a few inevitable tumbles along the way. We also discovered a new favourite soft drink, “schiwasser”, which quickly became a highlight of our time on the slopes. Thanks to Mrs. Coleman, we even made a special stop at a supermarket to bring some back for friends at Sacred Heart before we left! 

After a busy day, Year 8 enjoyed time at a trampoline park, while Year 12 opted for a well-earned rest in the peaceful hot beds at the spa. In the evening, everyone came together for a lively quiz led by Mr Candy and Russell, our guide, with plenty of competitive spirit on display.

Monday brought another morning of skiing, with many students now confidently gliding down the slopes and improving rapidly. In the afternoon, we travelled to Salzburg, where we visited the Nonnberg Abbey, famously featured in The Sound of Music. There, we took part in a Palm Sunday prayer service led by Sixth Form and Year 8 students. A peaceful and reflective moment in a truly beautiful setting. We also enjoyed a guided walk through the city and visited the Catherdral and the birthplace of Mozart, before picking up souvenirs (lots of choloclate and key rings!) for our families. 

By Tuesday and Wednesday, many of us were feeling far more confident and adventurous, progressing onto blue and red slopes, with some even tackling the black runs. It was incredible to see how much everyone had improved in such a short time. In the midst of the cold weather, we suggested a hot cholcolate break in the afternoon- the answer was a firm NO, with girls stating "We want to ski, we can have hot chocolate in London, but we can't ski in London!". 

On Wednesday, we were sad to leave what had truly been an incredible trip. Not only did we develop our skiing skills, we also created a lovely bond among us all and created lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. It’s safe to say this is a trip we will all be talking about for years to come.

Ms Kennedy & Pippa S Y12