News & Headteacher Blogs

A Remarkable Week in Quebec: Skiing, Character and CREARCI in Action

 

Over the half term, a group of 40 incredibly sixth-form students returned from what can only be described as an exceptional visit to Quebec, centred around five days of skiing at Mont-Sainte-Anne. It was a week defined not only by sporting progress, but by character, community, and the consistent embodiment of our CREARCI values.

 

Five Days on the Slopes

From the very first morning on the mountain, students demonstrated courage and ambition. For some, this was their first experience of skiing; for others, an opportunity to refine existing technique, including time spent perfecting challenge moguls! Over five days of instruction, including the unforgettable experience of night skiing under the floodlights, the improvement was striking.

It was particularly pleasing to see students push themselves beyond their comfort zones: attempting steeper runs, refining parallel turns, and encouraging one another when conditions were challenging. By the final day, the confidence and technical control displayed across the group was testament to their resilience and commitment.

Staff (Mr Prosser, Mrs Pankhania, Ms Baldwin, Miss Parry, Mrs Cox and Mr Dunne) were unanimous in their praise. The progress in skiing ability was impressive; the progress in independence, teamwork and mutual support was even more so.

Representing the School with Integrity

Throughout the week, members of the public- from BA cabin crew, ski instructors, to restaurant staff and fellow tourists- took the time to comment on the exemplary manners and conduct of our students. On multiple occasions, staff were approached to say how polite, courteous, and respectful our students had been. In an international setting, this matters enormously. Our students demonstrated integrity and responsibility in every context: on the slopes, in restaurants, in the hotel, and while exploring the city. They were outstanding ambassadors for our school.

Exploring Quebec Beyond the Slopes

The visit extended far beyond skiing. A trip to the breathtaking Montmorency Falls offered a dramatic reminder of the scale and beauty of Canada’s winter landscape. The frozen cascade provided a spectacular backdrop and an opportunity for students to reflect, take photographs, and appreciate the natural world in extreme conditions.

An afternoon in Old Quebec City allowed students to experience the rich culture and history of the region. Walking through the snow-lined streets, exploring independent shops, and absorbing the unique European character of the city was a highlight for many.

Evenings of Competition and Community

The competitive spirit continued off the slopes. Our quiz night saw Year 13 assert their dominance in emphatic fashion: a performance that combined knowledge, teamwork and a healthy degree of confidence. Bingo night proved equally memorable. Congratulations to Nikolai, who secured the top prize: a coveted North Face backpack. The atmosphere across both evenings was one of warmth and camaraderie: laughter, encouragement and shared celebration. Students enjoyed ‘Downs’ time unwinding in the hot tubs, hotel gym and games room.  

CREARCI in Action

Perhaps most importantly, the week offered countless examples of our CREARCI values lived out in practice:

• Courage – tackling new slopes and new challenges.
• Resilience – persevering after falls, fatigue or freezing temperatures.
• Equality – supporting one another regardless of prior experience.
• Ambition – striving for improvement every single day.
• Responsibility – representing the school impeccably.
• Creativity – embracing new cultural experiences with curiosity.
• Integrity – consistently choosing to do the right thing, even when unobserved.

Trips such as this are about far more than skiing. They are about growth, perspective, and shared experience. They build confidence, strengthen friendships, and create memories that will endure long after the snow has melted. We are immensely proud of every student who took part. They represented our school with distinction and returned not only as stronger skiers, but as more assured, considerate and confident young people.

A truly remarkable week!

Mrs Pankhania