Snow and ice and all things nice

You’ll need

Pens or pencils
A4 paper
Access to the internet

Before you begin

As groups will be planning a snowy sojourn, they’ll probably need access to computers or devices to help them find the information they need to prepare themselves.

If there’s no internet access, or you can’t get any computers or devices, source some other (hard copy) planning materials for the groups to use to plan their snowsports adventure, like brochures and mountain guides.

Run the activity

Split into groups of three or four. Give each group writing materials, paper and a computer or device with internet access.
Each group should divide their paper into four equal sections. Entitle the sections: ‘Activity and equipment’, ‘Location’, ‘Group size and ability’ and ‘Backup plan’.
Groups should fill in the relevant information in each section to plan their trip, using the following steps as a guide.

This could be a dream trip that the group would like to do in the future, or an upcoming trip that’s part of the programme.

For ‘Activity and equipment’, groups should agree upon and write down what they’d like to do on the trip and what they’ll need to do it. This might involve specific lessons or off-piste days. Direct everyone to this kit list, which should cover everything they’ll need.
For ‘Location’, think about where your group will be going, how you’ll get there and why you’ve chosen that place.
For ‘Group size and ability’, think about how many people you’d be bringing along and what their ability levels are. Depending on your planned location and activities, some accessibility adaptations may need to be made.

Leaders should move between the groups and pay close attention to this section, to see that groups are settling on ideas that are inclusive and take into account accessibility needs. Question any ideas that might not meet all of the group's needs in this way.

For ‘Backup plan’, come up with a plan B in case the preferred trip can’t take place due to weather or other factors. Think about planning for emergencies and how you’d get from your location to a hospital or home. Learn more about managing incidents by having a go at ‘Slope spotters’ [LINK].

Groups are likely to have some different opinions about planning trips. Make sure everyone has the opportunity to put forward their ideas and opinions for consideration as part of a group discussion, before groups settle on a plan.

Groups could now present their idea for a snowsports trip to the person leading the activity or to the other groups. Explain the choices that were made as part of the planning process. The audience should ask questions to double-check that each piste planning party has thought of everything.

Groups could also upload their activities to the Programme Planning Tool to easily add this to their programme calendar. The relevant badges and requirements can then be linked to the trip to easily keep track of everyone’s progress.

Reflection

When planning something like a snowsports trip, it’s important to be able to work as a team. Lots of different ideas and thoughts will be thrown around, and there’s a chance that everyone will be wanting to get something different out of the trip. Throughout the planning process, everyone should make sure to remind themselves to speak their minds, at least a few times, and give others the opportunity to do the same. Everyone’s ideas are important, so listening is just as important as speaking up when working in a team.

Look for opportunities to help everyone listen to someone else speaking their mind in the future. This support should inspire others to help build a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Safety

All activities must be safely managed. You must complete a thorough risk assessment and take appropriate steps to reduce risk. Use the safety checklist to help you plan and risk assess your activity. Always get approval for the activity, and have suitable supervision and an InTouch process.