Clifton College named as Finalist in Independent Schools of the Year 2025 awards

We are thrilled to be named as a Finalist in this year's Independent Schools of the Year awards in the 'School Trip of the Year' category.

We were recognised for our Year 9 full cohort enrichment trip to Tignes, which has been hugely successful for two consecutive years. Read more about the adventurous trip below.

In the final few days of Summer Term, 130 of our Year 9 pupils, accompanied by 15 dedicated staff, embarked on a remarkable journey to Tignes, France, for an enrichment trip unlike any other. Based at the prestigious Apex 2100 High Performance Academy, the expedition was a testament to our commitment to providing unique, character-building experiences. Far from a typical school ski trip, this adventure was designed to challenge and inspire, fostering independence, teamwork, and leadership in an awe-inspiring natural environment: 

Preparation Meets Opportunity

Ahead of the trip, our pupils embarked on a number of activities to prepare them for the trip. These included being sorted into their work group so they had plenty of time to become familiar with peers they may not have worked with before. Pupils attended a visit to the Belmont Estate and Climate Change lectures so that they could fully understand and appreciate the changes to the Alpine biome during their visit, and a sauna and cold plunge day accompanied by French cheeses and a barbecue to give them the full taste of what was to come.

A Journey of Independence and Teamwork

Our pupils started their journey early, heading to the Alps by train. This wasn't a simple transfer; it was the first leg of their enrichment journey. Split into teams, they were tasked with navigating their way, using their developing language skills to purchase food, and entertaining themselves with board games and books throughout the journey. This initial challenge set the tone for the entire trip, emphasising self-reliance and collaborative problem-solving from the outset.

Maximising every moment in the Alps

The trip to Tignes was meticulously planned to maximise every moment. The pupils' days were packed with diverse and challenging activities that pushed them outside their comfort zones. They undertook a challenging trek to a mountain refuge, which tested their physical endurance. They engaged in sustainability education and visited the Grande Motte glacier, gaining a firsthand understanding of the delicate alpine ecosystem. Other thrilling activities included a high ropes course, fishing in glacial waters, and a raft-building exercise that put their engineering and teamwork skills to the test. One of the highlights was an overnight stay in a mountain Refuge, an immersive experience that allowed them to fully appreciate the raw beauty of the Alps.

Leadership at the heart of the experience

What truly set this trip apart was the focus on pupil leadership. At every turn, pupils were encouraged to take the lead. They worked together to navigate challenges, make decisions, and support one another. A key component of the trip was peer-to-peer learning, with pupils regularly presenting to each other, sharing their discoveries and insights. This emphasis on student-led activities empowered them to take ownership of their experience, building confidence and a sense of responsibility that will serve them well in the future.

A recognised and rewarded experience

This recognition as Finalist from Independent Schools of the Year 2025 awards is a testament to the trip's innovative design and its profound impact on our pupils. The Tignes trip was more than just a holiday; it was a carefully curated educational experience that blended physical challenge with academic enrichment and personal growth. It provided our Year 9 pupils with a unique opportunity to build resilience, sharpen their leadership skills, and forge lasting bonds with their peers and staff. This trip exemplifies the unique and enriching experiences that Clifton College strives to offer its pupils.

We are continually striving to provide our pupils with enriching and practical experiences which will equip them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing modern world. We already look forward to the next trip to Tignes in Summer Term 2026 with our current Year 9 cohort.