Fantastic - yet again!! The British School - Muscat ventured to Switzerland for another successful ski trip. Held at the world class resort of Verbier the students took part in a six day ski and snowboard extravaganza! This year the majority of students were beginners with the exception of a few who joined the trip on its first outing last year. This year the development for each student was outstanding, and even Mrs Suddaby managed to learn how to ski off-piste - much to amusement of a few mountain goats and local tourists! The host, Les Elfes, was again outstanding and accommodated us on all aspects of a school ski trip. Other than skiing and snowboarding, the students also took part in numerous evening activities, which included: ice-skating, broom hockey, night skiing, disco, and other in house entertainment.

The British School students were themselves outstanding, not only on the slopes, but in every aspect of the trip. The behaviour was excellent, and their personal attitude exemplary. It was noted on a number of occasions by the Les Elfes instructors on the performance, manners and maturity of our students throughout the week. Students can gain a vast amount of experience and memories through a trip such as this. Many a lesson can be taught in a classroom, but an education gained through an experience such as a school residential can benefit and maintain memories that will last a lifetime.

I would like to say a special thank you to the staff who accompanied the trip - Mrs Witcomb and Mrs Suddaby, and to those in the finance and accounts office who helped with the organisation, Mrs Swinbanks and her assistants. Next year we are hoping to plan the same trip again and there is the possibility for more intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders to go to Canada in the first week of the Easter holidays 2006. More information will be sent to you shortly, so please watch this space!