Gerry, another great week. Some of the students who have been on a number of trips said it was the best yet! If you want a letter of recommendation let us know. These were the main points which made the trip;

• Crans is a great resort. It was high enough to retain excellent conditions on the piste. Lift queues are not a problem at peak time and many of the slopes are spacious and uncrowded. The slopes ideally suit intermediate and beginner skiers and snowboarders and there is enough for advanced groups.
• Instruction was excellent for the vast majority of the groups. Where there were problems these were sorted without much fuss.
• The 30 min lunch was a real bonus. No private lunchtime lessons for instructors, students did not get bored, and the best conditions on the slopes were enjoyed. I would even go for a 9.30am start if it was available and stopping at 3.00pm.
• The Ski Company staff were excellent as usual. Very good relationships with staff and students.
• Food was generally very good. Breakfast is exactly what is needed, packed lunch with a plain cheese/ham filling would be better, and in the evening soup and salad bar was very good. Main courses of chicken, cottage pie and pizza were good, others need some work e.g. burgers were not good this year.
• Accommodation worked well this year. A lot easier to supervise although would not want to be on ground floor. No use of balcony was observed well by each school.
• Weardale coaches continue to be excellent, although the attitude of some of the Barfordian drivers could be improved. Shouting at students queuing for the toilet to get on the coach before a 20hr journey did not inspire confidence.
• Payment system worked efficiently again from the school point of view.
• Medical centre at Crans was excellent and conveniently located.
• Post bus only 5 min journey.
• Token system worked very well.
• Facilities in the centre were good and La Moubra is the right distance away from the two villages, i.e. the students do not keep on wanting to go into Crans.
• Evening entertainment kept students occupied, although jury still out on magic show. Ice skating perhaps.

Dates for next year- Family and friends at Crans 26Dec-3Jan; VIth form/Yr11 13-21Feb at Crans; Yr10 3-11April at Arosa. Any limit on numbers? Booking forms by early May if possible.

Thanks once again. Great trip Simon