SIX sixth form students braved the worst the Arctic could throw at them on a life-changing cross-country skiing trip in Northern Scandinavia.

Most of them had never skied before arriving in Norway, where they experienced a fast learning curve, three Arctic storms, an Arctic blizzard and a snow stricken airport.

The expedition by Year 12 students from Newent Community School and Sixth Form Centre 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle saw temperatures plunge as low as -25C.

Davi Griffiths, Dan Rowley, Elliot Gray, Harry Bloxsome, Peter Jenkins and Taine Roberts spent 10 days skiing through Finland, Sweden and Norway with teachers Ian Morley and Alan Naylor.

“It was certainly no ordinary school trip,” said Davi. “In our time in Norway we experienced three Arctic storms, an Arctic blizzard and snow stricken airport.

“Travelling between 12km and 18km a day was something we were all used to, but none of us had ever had skis on our feet.

“This created a recipe for lots of falling over, but thankfully no injuries apart from people’s pride.

“And while trapped by a storm we had the opportunity to practice our downhill skiing which definitely needed finessing. The trip was very strenuous for everyone, but the morale kept everyone going and everyone was so determined.

“And the Arctic rewarded us with the beautiful northern lights and some spectacular sunsets and sun rises which would rival anywhere.”

He said they experienced some of the most unusual weather they had ever seen.

“From starting out in -25C, the temperature rose by 30C in 24 hours during the first Arctic storm, with rain leaving some very challenging skiing conditions,” he added.

The final four days of the expedition, which some of the group are hoping to use for their Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition, saw the group camp out at -22C, which forged a strong bond between them and even greater respect for the people who live there.

David said: “The teachers really made our expedition and the opportunity is unparalleled. We have all come back gaining something slightly different from the expedition, whether it be more independence or improved resilience.

“This trip is something that none of us are ever going to forget and is something we would urge everyone to do. You will definitely surprise yourself” he added.

•The story is based on an article written by Year 12 student Davi Griffith.