Students from the district jetted off to Italy for an exciting work placement at a popular ski resort.

The travel and tourism students took part in lessons based around the snow-covered slopes of Folgarida.

To gain an in-depth insight into the industry, they were taught about ski hire and ski school, as well as bar and restaurant duties.

The students, who are taking a BTEC National Certificate, were drawn from the Keighley and Park Lane campuses of Leeds City College. They worked in businesses such as the Hotel Luna Group chain, local ski schools, ski hire shops and with ski tour operator Max Ski.

The scheme was a new experience for all but one of the group.

Dan Baker, the travel and tourism curriculum leader, said the trip gave the students invaluable skills to equip them in the workplace and boost their chances of finding a job.

He said: “We have seen the students gain confidence from learning new skills in a different environment away from home.

“We hope that this venture can develop into a long-standing relationship in the future.”

The trip was funded by the Leonardo da Vinci Mobility Programme, which supports vocational training organisations to send staff and students on European work placements.

It was the first time that diverse ski resort businesses had been brought together to give students the opportunity to experience a variety of settings.

West Yorkshire-based ski tour operator Max Ski, which was involved in the placement, will return to Leeds City College to discuss future job opportunities with the students.