by Amy Borrett
THE third annual National Schools Snowsport week is set to launch on Monday 23 April, hoping to encourage over 2,000 youngsters to try their hand at skiing and snowboarding for the first time. The week will run from 23 to 29 April and is aimed at giving pupils at primary and secondary schools, as well as sixth form colleges, the chance to try skiing or snowboarding.
Artificial slopes across England and Wales will offer free or heavily discounted activities to schools and youth groups as part of the week.
2017 saw 77 schools and 2,353 young people take part in National Schools Snowsport Week, more than double the amount of the previous year, and Snowsport England are confident this will rise again in 2018 following the inspiration and excitement of the 2018 Winter Olympics and Paralympics.
Stars from the recent games are getting involved by attending a launch event on 16 April at The Snowdome Tamworth. Olympians Aimee Fuller and Dave Ryding as well as Paralympic gold medallists Menna Fitzpatrick and Jen Dehoe will get to meet the 30 lucky students who won the opportunity to meet their snowsport heroes by designing graphics for a pair of skis or a snowboard. Also attending the event is Ski Sunday presenter and former ski racer Graham Bell who judged the competition.
Luke Williams, Snowsport England initiative Leader said: “For some school children, National Schools Snowsport Week will be the first time they’ve been on skis or a snowboard. For others, it opens up the opportunity to develop their existing skills and try racing, freestyle or ski or snowboard cross.
“For everyone that takes part we aim for it to be an enriching experience, which not only brings people together but also helps build strength and define skills of balance and agility.”
Snowsport England CEO Tim Fawke said: “We are delighted to be working with Interski as headline sponsor for National Schools Snowsport Week. They are the UK’s leading school ski trip provider and have been for over 30 years – providing the very best school ski trips available. We hope any students inspired by their experience on National Schools Snowsport Week will look to continue their involvement in skiing and snowboarding with Interski and beyond.”
For details of slopes taking part in the National Schools Snowsport Week go to:
Follow Snowsport England on Twitter @SnowsportEng #SchoolSnowsport.
Categories: Club & Slope News, News