News
Ski Trip to Vermont
Posted on: March 6th 2016During the February break, 32 students and 4 members of staff enjoyed a thrilling week of skiing in Vermont, USA.
On our first two days we were greeted at the Pico resort with clear blue skies, lots of sun and a mountain that had more than enough snow to make our week of skiing rewarding and enjoyable. The instructors were all very helpful and ensured that all students (and staff) made rapid progress on the slopes. On day three we switched to the other more advanced side of the mountain, Killington, which is also known quite fittingly as the ‘Beast of the East’.
The four groups: Three beginners and one advanced were introduced to their respective instructors and off we went. Conditions were difficult, but the students prevailed and made outstanding progress. I would particularly like to mention our skiers of the week, who were awarded prizes based on skill, attitude and general helpfulness. Abby Casey and George Mendonca for making rapid progress in a short period of time, Cameron Harold and Margot Kapetan for positive, can-do attitudes and Stathis Josif for always being extremely helpful and supporting other students.
Each day we had our very own yellow American school bus that took us to and from the mountain. Students enjoyed evenings in local restaurants, entertainment at a local leisure complex for ‘pizza and bowling' and enjoyed movie and quiz nights at our incredible hotel ‘The Hampton inn, Rutland. On our final day - We visited Woodbury Common Mall, where students had some light retail therapy after a successful week tackling the sub minus temperatures of Vermont.
My reflection on the week is one of great pride, firstly in the students who helped make this such a memorable trip and secondly watching how many students looked out for each other. It was wonderful to see expressions of joy each day as new skills and achievements were accomplished. We have some very talented students here at Southgate School and many kind and thoughtful individuals. We were so pleased to take such a tremendous group on a fantastic learning experience to Vermont.
A huge thank you to the students who made it so much fun, the parents who gave students the opportunity and the staff who helped make the trip both safe and successful.
Please refer to the media gallery to view the pictures.
Mr Beckles, Mr Mounsey, Mr Starr and Miss Theobald
