Uppingham education.

A pre-Christmas bash in pristine snow was the setting for a trip by a group of  teachers from the powerhouse of academic performance, Uppingham school. Possibly on a foray for trips in the future, or just a trip to enjoy the fruits of Chalet L’Oreade, either way fun was had by all.

Led by Housemaster sir Kurt, bringing up the rear were the dramatic sir Andy and historic yet grounded sir Jamie.

Four days was a tall order to fit in enough satisfaction for these hungry lads, but we managed to pack in some thrills and spills along with some quality grub provided by Mrs G.

It was a great few days worthy of mention and all the chaps performed fantastically despite having to absorb copious lemsips in the morning to provide fuel for them.

After our little four day excursion each of the pupils was issued with a performance report, something to show the responsible ones back home and of course highlighting the areas that need attention next term…..

The honourable Master Kurt  had a slow start during the few days of intensive training. A naturally quiet person he seemed to listen intently to the information presented and process the ideas well. This was especially true to behold in his practical performance which got stronger everyday.

 

The depth of Kurt’s concentration shows no bounds.

 

It would have been nice to see the mischievous side to this great character at some point and sometimes in the early days, a little more communication would have been the cream on the cake, to give a well rounded sense of the effort he displayed physically.

 

Kurt must not be afraid to push himself sometimes, since he has great skill and practical ability. Trust yourself and the weapon that you ride with to carve the ultimate impression on the mountain.

Great stuff!

 

Master Andy had a robust spirit from the word go. This meant that straight away he was up against the wall and had to prove his skill in the practical environment to back up the banter that we all experienced in the classroom.  At times the other students were influenced by his boisterous activities at the back of the class.

 

Although not the most skilled of the class in this ‘top-set’ group, from the outset he soon threw himself head-long into all the situations that were put in front of him. Indeed some of these tasks were above his ability level but sheer determination and the use of humor saw him through the sticky situations.

 

I would suggest that he sometimes misjudges the use of appropriate language in the classroom environment. I put this down to his dramatic nature and anticipate that it will not happen again after he was disciplined.

 

On the whole a great effort was always present with a spirit of elation at all corners of our adventure.

 

Try to gauge the behavior of others in the class when targeting a subject for the butt of a joke, and you will go far.

 

Splendid, a real one to watch here!

 

 

 

 

 

Master Jamie, or the ‘Gentleman Rascal’, had a very impressive attitude throughout the course. Initially coming across a little reserved, he soon managed to emerge from any anxiousness he may have had. Unresolved, he battled on with all the different severities of terrain encountered, never uttering any word of discontent, or displeasure.

 

It has been a real pleasure spending time with this young man who shows great potential to develop into this new lifestyle that seems to excite him.

 

Despite his fantastic potential it seems he holds back when it comes to members of the opposite sex in the practical scenarios presented on the course. I have no doubt this will be a small patch in an otherwise fruitful voyage along the way he chooses.

 

On the whole a sterling effort and I expect Jamie to go far, well done.

 

Of all the students Jamie shows the greatest potential to become a ’ski bum’. Good Show!