The first ever Prem Ski Trip to Japan was a great success, with 14 students from grades 6-11 enjoying 5 days skiing on the slopes of Happo One ski field in Hakuba.  After traveling by bus from Tokyo and visiting the world famous snow monkeys on the way, the group was excited to hit the slopes on the first morning.  On each day, students took part in 2 hours of lessons in the morning, had a break for lunch, before rejoining their instructors for another 2 hour session in the afternoon.  Early in the week the beginners in the group found their feet on the slopes, learning the basic techniques of snow plough turns and stopping, while the more advanced skiers were able to ski with their instructors on more challenging parts of the mountain.  The improvements that the beginner group made throughout the week was outstanding to see and all of these students should be commended for the way that they challenged themselves and for the resilience that they showed.  The advanced group were also able to push themselves and enjoy the free skiing.  Other highlights for the week included fun dinners out eating pizza and some great Japanese food.  Overall, it was a very successful, rewarding trip for all involved.  We hope that this is the first of many Prem ski trips to Japan!