School Challenges

Our seven whole-school challenges push every student to overcome adversity and be their very best.

Challenges are an important part of life at Beau Soleil. Throughout the year, we come together as a community for seven unique events – each of which is designed to nurture our students’ growth and development.

Each challenge instils belief and confidence, as well as showing our young people just how much they can achieve. Overcoming adversity is also incredibly satisfying, fostering a sense of individual and collective pride. After every challenge, we enjoy a delicious group dinner in the school restaurant.

While the ultimate goal is for everyone to take part and do their best, our most competitive students seek to win the Challenge Championship. It’s a hard-fought competition, with students and staff going above and beyond in pursuit of individual and house glory.

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“Overcoming adversity is also incredibly satisfying, fostering a sense of individual and collective pride.”

The Seven Challenges

In this section

Summer Camp

Summer at Beau Soleil is an extraordinary adventure for campers who come to Switzerland from across the world. Join our campers in July 2025 and get a taste of life at College Alpin Beau Soleil!

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Challenge 1: Train to telecabine

Typically held on the first weekend of term, our train to telecabine challenge is the ideal introduction to life at Beau Soleil. Students take the train up to the Bretaye ski station – enjoying the magnificent views – before hiking or running 10km to the Barbelouse telecabine.

Challenge 2: Obstacle course

Climbing, running, jumping, and working as a team, our obstacle course – held during the first term – is a fun but challenging activity. An opportunity for our students to enjoy the mountain before the snow descends, the course features a thrilling water slide at the finish.

Challenge 3: 10km or 20km run

Also taking place during the first term, our running challenge gives students the option of tackling either a 10km or 20km course. Straddling the banks of the Rhone River, our picturesque valley run is the only event that doesn’t take place at altitude.

Challenge 4: Grand Cham

Setting off from the village under the cover of darkness, our students hike up a snow-covered mountain enroute to the finish at a nearby ski resort. They’re greeted with a warm hot chocolate before taking a relaxing telecabine ride back down.

Challenge 5: Night ski race

Taking place after the slopes have closed for the day, our night ski race tests both our students’ skill and stamina. Wearing head torches and hi-vis, our young people have a set amount of time to complete as many laps of a ski run as possible.

Challenge 6: Winter sports day

Our winter sports day is always highly anticipated, as it gives students of all interests the chance to put their skills to the test. Ski events include the giant slalom, freestyle, and house parallel slalom, as well as snowboarding, orienteering, and an exciting snowshoe sprint.

Challenge 7: Ollon to Beau Soleil

The final challenge of the year – and with the sun (normally!) shining – sees our students hike from the village of Ollon up to Beau Soleil. This difficult but rewarding trek culminates in a celebratory jump in the pool.

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Admissions

We’re delighted that you’re interested in joining the Beau Soleil family. Your journey starts with our expert Admissions Team, who will guide you through the process – from helping you submit your application form to arranging a guided tour.

Our school – which is home to around 300 students – is small but diverse. This means places are limited, and we’d encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

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School Challenges

School Challenges

Going above and beyond