“FIRST TRACKS” PROGRAMME INSPIRES SCOTLAND’S NEXT GENERATION OF SNOWSPORTS ENTHUSIASTS

Austria Tourism-Funded Initiative Gives More Than 150 Scottish Primary Pupils Their First Experience on the Slopes

A pioneering partnership between Snowsport Scotland and Austria Tourism has successfully introduced more than 150 primary school pupils across Scotland to the exciting world of skiing through the inaugural First Tracks programme.

Designed to remove barriers to participation and inspire a lifelong love of snowsports, the fully funded initiative provided children with their first experience of skiing or snowboarding at local artificial snow centres, while also introducing them to Austria’s rich alpine culture and world-renowned snowsports heritage.

Among the schools taking part were Riverside Primary School in Glasgow, whose pupils enjoyed lessons at Glasgow Ski & Snowboard Centre; Galston Primary School, with lessons at Newmilns Snow & Sports Complex; and Kaimhill Primary School in Aberdeenshire, which was hosted at Aberdeen Snowsports Centre.

The programme has given young people from a range of backgrounds the opportunity to develop new skills, build confidence, and experience the thrill of skiing for the very first time.

Iain Ramsay-Clapham, CEO of Snowsport Scotland, said:

"We are incredibly proud of the impact First Tracks has had on young people across Scotland. Through the support of Austria Tourism, we have been able to provide opportunities that many children may never otherwise have experienced. The enthusiasm shown by pupils at Riverside Primary, Galston Primary and Kaimhill Primary has been fantastic, and we hope this is just the beginning of their snowsports journey."

As part of the initiative, pupils also learned about Austria's rich snowsports traditions, alpine culture, food and music through engaging educational resources and activities delivered alongside their lessons.

Martina Jamnig of Austria Tourism said:

"Austria is delighted to support First Tracks and help introduce young Scots to the joy of snowsports. It has been wonderful to see so many children take their first turns on Scottish slopes while learning about Austria's unique alpine culture. We hope this experience inspires them to continue their journey and one day visit the Austrian Alps themselves."

Teachers and instructors involved in the programme praised the enthusiasm and confidence displayed by participants, many of whom had never considered trying snowsports before.

The success of First Tracks highlights the power of partnership in creating new opportunities for young people and demonstrates how accessible introductory experiences can help grow participation in snowsports across Scotland.

With smiles, new skills and plenty of memorable first runs completed, the First Tracks programme has laid the foundations for a new generation of Scottish snowsports enthusiasts.

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