Ski experience challenges fears and builds confidence

Twelve National Star students have challenged themselves to experience life in the fast lane when they travelled to Andorra to ski as part of an educational experience.

For months, the students worked with National Star’s education and therapy teams to prepare for the trip. For many, it was the first travel experience without their parents as young adults.

The students faced so many new experiences. Some had never travelled on an aeroplane before heading to Andorra.

One student, Sam, had a fear of heights, but by the end of the week he was one of the first students to use the resort’s new £12m chair lift to go to the top of the mountain!

Nathan was another student whose confidence soared during the trip. He started the week as a sit skier but was keen to try skiing as an ambulant skier.

Seth had never been away from his family for so long and he developed his independence during the trip. He especially enjoyed having his own room.

The day student has always had trouble with his balance and co–ordination, but the trip helped develop his confidence in both areas.

Initially Seth said that he had wobbly knees but got stronger as the week progressed and was proud to eventually travel the whole length of the slope.

The ski instructors said Seth was the first ambulant National Star student for many years to have mastered a blue run!

Socially, Seth developed positive relations with fellow students, staff from National Star and the new staff he met at the resort.

He also enjoyed a Guinness or two as part of the group’s après ski experience.

Seth’s mum Alison said: ‘Seth returned from the trip full of stories and experiences that he will remember forever. He had never skied before in his life. He was able to learn a new skill and make such progress during the week which was fantastic.’

Ski Experience Leader Andy Woolway said: ‘The ski experience was an opportunity for everyone on the trip to use their life skills and communication skills in a new and very different setting, not to mention the physical and mental challenges of the ski slope.’

The ski experience demonstrates the determination of National Star students to be active citizens in control of their lives. Your support helps us to enable them to achieve this. Donate today.