There’s nothing quite like watching a group of students stand up on skis for the first time. By the end of the week, the same young people who wobbled off the nursery slope are carving down blue runs, cheering each other on, and asking when they can come back. If you’ve been thinking about running a school ski trip to Austria, this guide walks you through how it works, step by step.
At TGM Holidays, we’ve been organising school ski trips since 1998. We’re a family-owned company based in Lytham St Annes, and we’ve helped hundreds of teachers take their first group to the mountains, so we know exactly what’s on your mind.
Why choose Austria for a school ski trip?
Austria is a natural fit for school groups. The resorts are friendly, well organised and set up for beginners, with excellent ski schools and gentle learning areas alongside more challenging terrain for confident skiers. Our trips are based in the Zell am See and Kaprun area of Salzburgerland, where the Kitzsteinhorn glacier gives reliable snow and the town itself is safe, compact and stunning.
Beyond the slopes, Austria offers real cultural and educational value too. Students experience a different language, Alpine traditions and a landscape that brings geography lessons to life.
When should you start planning?
The earlier the better. School ski trips are popular, and the best weeks (especially February half term and Easter) fill quickly. Many schools start planning 12 to 18 months ahead, which gives plenty of time to gauge interest, hold a parents’ evening and spread payments across a comfortable schedule for families.
If you’re thinking about a trip for the 2027/28 season, now is a great time to get in touch.
What’s included in a TGM school ski trip?
Every trip is tailored to your group, but a typical package includes:
- Coach travel to Austria, or flights where preferred
- Full-board accommodation in quality young persons’ hotels
- Full-area ski passes and daily ski lessons with qualified instructors
- Ski or snowboard hire, including helmets
- Evening activities planned for your group
- A dedicated TGM representative in resort throughout your stay
- Free staff places based on your group size
You can see more on our School Ski Trips page.
Safety and support for party leaders
We know that as a trip leader, the welfare of your students comes first. Our in-resort reps know the area inside out and are on hand throughout the week, and we’re fully ATOL and ABTA protected, so your trip is financially secure from booking to return.
You can read our Child Protection and Safeguarding policy and our FAQs for School Party Leaders for more detail. If your school requires a qualified leader on the slopes, our Snowsports Course Organiser (SCO) training is a great place to start.
Getting your students ready
Once your trip is booked, we’ll support you with everything from the parents’ evening to packing. Our Suggested Kit List and What to Wear guides are perfect to share with families. For students who’ve never skied before, a session at the Snow Centre Manchester before you travel is a brilliant confidence builder.
Ready to start planning?
Every school is different, so we build each trip around your group, your dates and your budget. Request a tailored quote or give our friendly team a call on 01253 780050. We’d love to help you plan a trip your students will talk about for years.