Click the link to view the full version: WAS Schools Beidahu Skiing Trip
WAS schools are committed to the philosophy of holistic education, providing students with comprehensive physical and mental development support through a diverse range of courses and study activities. We firmly believe that education extends beyond the classroom — broadened perspectives, enhanced independence, and fostering teamwork are key elements in developing future young leaders. With this philosophy in mind, WAS schools offer students a variety of extracurricular activities and hands-on experiences to help them grow through challenges and push their boundaries through exploration.
Last week, 49 students and eight teachers from WAS Changzhou, Hangzhou, and Nanjing embarked on an unforgettable skiing trip to Beidahu, filled with adventure, cultural experiences, and personal growth. This journey was not just a recreational trip, but a valuable educational experience. It allowed students to grow through the joy of skiing and provided rich cultural experiences that helped broaden their horizons and sharpen their minds, leaving them with lasting memories that transcend mountains and seas.
From the first exciting slide down the slope to mastering new skiing and snowboarding techniques, students made steady progress under the guidance of internationally certified professional instructors. They gained confidence and a sense of achievement through progressively structured skiing lessons, advancing from beginners to more proficient skiers.
Cultural Immersion and Engagement
In the rich evening programme, students relaxed in hot springs, took part in various cultural activities such as making traditional Chinese candied hawthorn skewers, and celebrated together with a lively birthday party for one of their classmates. These shared moments of celebration will become cherished memories and a testament to the friendships formed during the trip.
Experiencing the Unique Charm of Northeast China
In addition, students visited Huadian Mingfeng, where they observed ice fishing and learned how the Northeast practices winter fishing. For example, if fishermen catch small fish, they release them back into the water. Students also enjoyed activities, such as the traditional sledge ride and snow tubing, with much enthusiasm.
Afterwards, they made traditional Northeast glutinous rice cakes and sampled authentic regional cuisine. These excursions added rich cultural depth to the week’s activities and allowed the students to experience the unique charm of Northeast China.
Celebrating Growth and Achievement
At the closing ceremony of the study trip, students reflected on the joyful and rewarding journey they had shared. All students were awarded the “GISS” international certification, recognised as a nationwide authoritative skiing programme. The “GISS” system is the only authorised teaching curriculum by both the International Ski Federation (FIS) and the Chinese Ski Association (CSA). This certification, recognised at FIS-certified ski resorts globally, enables long-term tracking of students’ skiing progress.
Comfortable Accommodation and Healthy Dining
For this study trip, we selected a dedicated hotel for young people that combines comfortable accommodation and leisure facilities and is well-equipped with excellent amenities, including safe and private dining spaces. The restaurant follows a 48-hour food monitoring and sampling system, ensuring balanced nutrition while accommodating students’ dietary restrictions and special requirements.
Safety and Care, WAS’s Full Support
Throughout the skiing camp, WAS’s dedicated team of local and international teachers accompanied the students, ensuring they could enjoy every activity in a safe environment. We implemented a range of safety measures, from professional skiing instruction to safety measures across all activities, to provide comprehensive care and protection. The careful guidance from our staff and instructors helped students build confidence while enhancing their abilities through adventure.
This trip exemplified the strong connections and cooperation between the WAS sister schools, offering students a platform to develop resilience, teamwork, and self-confidence. Not only did they improve their skiing skills, but through cultural exploration and teamwork, they honed their leadership, responsibility, and problem-solving abilities. As a result, they are becoming more independent and confident future leaders. When they return to Changzhou, Hangzhou, and Nanjing, they will carry with them not only certificates but also unforgettable memories and lasting friendships！
We look forward to offering more exciting study and growth opportunities for our students in the future, and we hope every WAS student will discover the best version of themselves through connecting with the world！
