Learning Beyond the Classroom Through Outdoor Experiences

At Ermitage IB School Paris, learning doesn’t stop when students leave the classroom: it continues through a wide range of other experiences.This winter, IB students embarked on three memorable mountain adventures across the French Alps and the Pyrenees.

In the French Alps, IPP students travelled to Val Cenis, while an MYP group enjoyed a week in La Plagne. Another MYP group explored the slopes of Saint-Lary in the Pyrenees. Each destination offered its own unique experiences, from first ski lessons and mountain discoveries to challenging conditions and unforgettable evenings together.

While each trip was different, all three shared the same spirit of adventure, discovery and community. Here is a closer look at these remarkable weeks in the mountains.

IPP Ski Trip to Val Cenis: First Turns and Lasting Memories

For many of our IPP students, the trip to Val Cenis marked their very first skiing experience. Surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the French Alps, students embraced every opportunity to learn, progress, and discover this new environment.

From their first moments on the snow to confidently navigating the slopes, the progress made throughout the week was remarkable. Alongside skiing, students enjoyed discovering local Alpine culture, including tasting regional cheeses such as Beaufort, and exploring the unique local traditions.

The trip was a wonderful introduction to outdoor learning and a memorable first mountain adventure for our youngest skiers.

 

MYP Ski Trip to Saint-Lary: From Green Slopes to Mountain Peaks in Saint-Lary

In the heart of the Pyrenees, our MYP students travelled to Saint-Lary for a week filled with challenge, adventure, and unforgettable shared experiences.

The mountains offered a variety of conditions, with sunshine, wind and fog, testing students' adaptability and perseverance. Beginners celebrated their first successful turns, while more advanced skiers explored higher areas, reaching impressive peaks above 2,500 metres. Each of them had the opportunity to push beyond their comfort zone and achieve personal milestones.

Beyond skiing, the trip was defined by an exceptional community spirit. Shared evenings included traditional mountain meals, games of Werewolf, and a student Olympics created lasting memories while reinforcing friendships and encouraging independence.

 

MYP ski trip to La Plagne: From the Slopes to the Dance Floor

Our La Plagne expedition offered students a different but equally rewarding mountain experience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps, the trip challenged students physically, mentally, and socially.

Even when weather conditions became difficult, students maintained a positive attitude and made the most of their time on the slopes. Despite periods of wind and reduced visibility, they continued skiing throughout the week, adapting to changing conditions and enjoying every opportunity to improve their skills.

Of course, there was plenty of fun along the way, and evenings were equally memorable. The now legendary "Just Dance" sessions became a highlight of the trip, bringing students together through laughter, friendly competition, and celebration after busy days on the mountain.

By the end of the week, students had shared countless experiences, from time on the slopes to moments spent together with friends and teachers.

 

Why Outdoor Experiences Matter at Ermitage IB School?

Whether in Val Cenis, Saint-Lary, or La Plagne, each ski trip offered students unique opportunities to step outside their usual routines and experience something new. Beyond skiing, these weeks were filled with shared challenges, friendships and memorable moments in the mountains.

Most importantly, these trips strengthen the bonds between students: spending an entire week together encourages collaboration, mutual support, and a strong sense of community. From the slopes to the evening activities, they demonstrated many of the qualities at the heart of the IB Learner Profile, including courage, curiosity and care for others.

At Ermitage IB School, we believe some of life's most valuable lessons happen beyond the classroom. Our annual ski trips remain a highlight of the school year, creating memories that last a lifetime while supporting the personal growth that lies at the heart of an Ermitage education.