Week four of term three saw the three Year 12 Physical Education classes putting their intensive Risk Management planning into practise at Mt Lyford.

The first trip left BHS in the early hours of the dawn on Monday, enjoying the scenic inland drive and after a small battle with the snow chains, arrived at the Mt Lyford Ski field itself. A quick briefing and students were issued with the required equipment before heading off to their first lesson of the three days. Groups were divided up into experience levels so everyone was able to work with similar abilities. Once lessons were over, the cohort had a chance to explore the ski field and put their newly learned skills into practice.

That evening back in the village saw many interesting cooking skills displayed, some monopoly deal, a few board games and some spider evictions before a solid, well earned sleep.

Wednesday was a big day with the first group having their assessments and last lessons before heading back to Christchurch, and the second group arriving up to begin their adventure.

The second group's adventure was slightly different with a big snow storm coming through on Wednesday night, meaning that we could not get up the actual mountain to ski that day. The day certainly did not go to waste however, with RAMS strategies being applied to village based activities. A snow fight of epic proportions tested agility, accuracy and evasive manoeuvres, (one staff member was not very evasive and copped a rather bruised nose as a result.)

The last day up the mountain was a gorgeous, bluebird day with lots of fresh powder providing additional challenges to the fledgling skiers.

Thank you to Mt Lyford for the amazing experience.