A group of 50 excited Year 10 students and staff from Tewkesbury Academy embarked on an eagerly-anticipated half-term ski trip to Oberlungau, Austria.

Despite the early start and chilly winter morning, spirits were high as the group set off for a week of adventure on the slopes.

Throughout the week, students honed their skiing skills, making remarkable progress across a variety of slopes.

The trip provided not only an incredible opportunity to develop their skiing abilities but also the chance to create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning Austrian scenery.

A huge thank you goes to trip coordinator Mr James, whose months of meticulous planning ensured the success of the trip. He was supported by dedicated Tewkesbury Academy staff members Ms Pugh, Miss Pawson, Miss Corbett, Mr Phillips, and Mr Spencer, who all played a vital role in making the experience so special.

A spokesperson for the academy said: “Students had an incredible time, learning new skills, embracing new challenges, and making lifelong memories.

“It was fantastic to see their enthusiasm and progress on the slopes.

“The trip was a resounding success, leaving students with a new-found love for skiing and a collection of cherished memories to look back on for many years to come.”

Seventy-two students and staff from Hanham Woods Academy embarked on an unforgettable skiing adventure during the half-term break.

Departing from Bristol, the group travelled approximately 1,600 kilometres across six countries in a 29-hour journey to the stunning resort of Bormio, Italy.

Despite the long trip, the students were full of excitement and eager to hit the slopes. Over the course of the week, they received expert ski tuition, improving their skills while enjoying breathtaking alpine scenery.

The trip provided a fantastic opportunity for students to challenge themselves, build confidence, and create lasting memories with their peers.

A spokesperson said: “It was a long journey, but the excitement never faded.

“Our students and staff were eager to hit the slopes and make the most of this incredible experience.

“For many, this is their first time skiing, and Bormio provided the perfect setting to learn, challenge themselves, and create unforgettable memories.”

The academy is incredibly proud of the students for their enthusiasm and determination throughout the week and extends its thanks to the staff and instructors who made this experience possible.

Monkton Wood Academy has congratulated former student Richard Capstick, who left Heathfield School (the former name of Monkton Wood) in 2016, on his continued success in professional rugby.

Richard has been a key player for Exeter Chiefs and has now achieved another milestone in his career – his recent selection to play for England A.

He was part of the England A team that secured an impressive 28-12 victory against Ireland A.

A spokesperson said: “We are incredibly proud of Richard’s achievements.

“His dedication and hard work have been evident since his school days, and it’s fantastic to see him continue to excel at the highest levels of rugby.

“We wish him all the best in his future performances with England A and Exeter Chiefs.”

Richard’s journey from Heathfield to professional rugby serves as an inspiration to current students.

His selection for England A is a testament to his commitment and talent, and school leaders look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.

Year 5 pupils from Evergreen Primary Academy were excited to visit Junction 3 Library for a special opportunity to meet a professional ballet dancer.

During the visit, pupils took part in an interactive ballet workshop where they learned fundamental ballet moves and positions.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where pupils asked insightful questions about the dancer’s career, training, and life as a professional performer.

A spokesperson for the school said: “This was a fantastic experience for our pupils, giving them a unique insight into the world of ballet.

“The workshop not only introduced them to the art form but also inspired them to see the dedication and passion behind a professional dancer’s career.”

The Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) has teamed up with Bristol Bears to launch a strategic partnership aimed at growing rugby in the region and raising aspirations of students.

The CLF is a family of 35 schools in Bristol, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Somerset, covering 18,000 young people from a wide range of backgrounds and demographics.

The trust has now confirmed a new partnership with Bristol Bears Rugby Club – a team which includes former CLF student, England international Ellis Genge – which it hopes will benefit students.

The link-up will include matchday visits, player visits to CLF schools, and the chance for students to participate in open days and inter-school tournaments. This will open doors to new sporting activities, and help raise ambitions for students who may be keen to follow in Ellis’s footsteps.

For the Bears, the partnership is part of the club’s strategy to identify talent, attract new supporters and deliver positive engagement within the community.

Steve Taylor, CEO of Cabot Learning Federation, said: “A key part of our strategic vision is developing high value partnerships with key stakeholders across the South West.

“We’re looking forward to collaborating with Bristol Bears to provide opportunities for young people within our trust to experience rugby for the first time.

“Through a range of activities and events, we’ll use the power of sport to continue to raise the aspiration and ambitions of children and young people experiencing disadvantage in Bristol.”

And Bristol Bears Chief Operating Officer, Tom Tainton, said: “Our focus is to Inspire Our Community Through Rugby Success. We’re committed to growing the game in our city and that means thinking differently and bringing rugby to new and diverse audiences.

“This developing relationship will help us to work with young people in Bristol who wouldn’t traditionally have engaged with rugby, where we hope to create long lasting affiliations to Bears and to the sport.”