MEET OUR TEAM OF
SKI EXPERTS
We have a fantastic and experienced ski force, filled with ex-teachers and experts when it comes to delivering first-class school ski tours. Find out more about them.
LUKE PIERCE
SKI TOUR CONSULTANT
FUN FACT
I have over 170 weeks on snow over the course of my career.
Luke discovered skiing at just eight years old and fell in love with the mountains and the freedom they offered. After six years working ski seasons across Europe, he returned to the industry in 2010 and now has 16 years’ experience helping schools across the UK and abroad plan and deliver unforgettable ski trips.
LUKE, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love visiting resorts with clients, showing party leaders around and getting the chance to ski with them. I enjoy understanding what clients want, matching them with the right resort, and seeing their reaction when they return knowing we got it right.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
My favourite resorts include Passo Tonale, where most accommodation is within easy reach of the slopes; Bardonecchia, for its unbeatable value; and Wagrain, for its authentic Austrian charm, huge ski area and fantastic youth hotels.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Skiing the famous Hahnenkamm ski run in Kitzbuhel whilst I was living in the resort.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
Meeting Arnold Schwarzenegger, also in Kitzbuhel, when I lived there.
Want to talk to Luke about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: Ireland, Central England & International Schools
BETH HALL
HEAD OF SKI
FUN FACT
I have been in a snow plough at night. An amazing experience.
Beth has been working in group travel since 2000, and with schools for the last 17 years! She was taken on her first ski holiday by her family to Chamonix and it was a truly terrifying experience.
BETH, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I absolutely love my job, without doubt the best thing about my job is seeing the excitement of absolute beginners going on their first ski trip. I am proud to be a part of the process that enables young people to experience something new.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Personally I like the hidden gems, the resorts that are lesser known to the school travel and UK market. What does this mean? Less hotel beds, quieter slopes, less time queuing, more time skiing.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Always the views, the top of the mountain experience! Secondly the chitter chatter at the end of the day, and the buzz of hearing about everyone else’s experience of the day.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
The highlight is always the time in the mountains, whether that be with a school group, skiing with colleagues or visiting new resorts.
Want to talk to Beth about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: South East England & South London
ED MCGREGOR
SKI TOUR CONSULTANT
FUN FACT
I've completed the London Marathon twice, once 6 weeks after recovering from a broken ankle.
Ed joined the travel industry in 2026 after a 20-year career in education, where he worked as a PE teacher, Director of Sport, and school trip leader. During his teaching career, Ed organised a wide range of school tours and trips across Europe and North America, giving him first-hand experience of what schools need to deliver successful and memorable experiences for their students.
ED, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
In my current role, I have the opportunity to help hundreds of staff and pupils achieve that every year. A major bonus is that I also get the chance to visit and ski some incredible resorts myself.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Serre Chevalier is my favourite resort for school groups. With much of the skiing above 2,000 metres, it offers excellent mileage and progression opportunities for both beginners and experienced skiers. The variety of terrain makes it a fantastic destination for school groups of all abilities.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Overhearing a pupil who had always struggled with sport at school say that they had "finally found their sport". Knowing that a ski trip helped unlock that confidence and passion is something I'll never forget.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
As a player, I had the opportunity to play first-class cricket. As a teacher and coach, one of my proudest achievements was helping coach a team to victory in the National Hockey Finals.
Want to talk to Ed about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: East England & North London
DAMIAN MCGRATH
SKI TOUR CONSULTANT
FUN FACT
I was in the Blur video – Girls & Boys!
Damian has 25 years of experience in the Travel Industry, almost 3 years of which with GB Ski Tours. He spent 4 seasons in Andorra. Damian is also. a Level 2 Qualified Snow board Instructor.
DAMIAN, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Meeting teachers face to face in schools to tell them about our amazing ski & sports tour options!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Aprica is small and friendly with a great ski school & ski hire shop. The resort is a really safe area for teachers and students.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
My best skiing moment was Heli skiing in Andorra!
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
I got the opportunity to visit Manchester United's Carrington training ground and see Alex Ferguson in person.
Want to talk to Damian about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: Midlands & Yorkshire
CLAIRE MILLS
SKI TOUR CONSULTANT
FUN FACT
I once sold US dollars to Rod Stewart whilst working at Travelcare!
Claire has 30 years’ experience in travel, including 16 years specialising in schools and education travel across ski, sports and study tours. Having skied a variety of resorts, she now considers herself a true “gondola girl”, happiest on a blue run, followed by a few hours enjoying the views from a mountain café!
CLAIRE, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love to see the satisfaction of children’s faces when out in the mountains, many who have never or would never get the opportunity to experience if it wasn’t for a school ski trip, this can then ignite there passion for a sport they would have never considered.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Having recently visited several resorts, Bardonecchia is now a firm favourite, thanks to its tree-lined pistes, Italian charm, great après-ski and family-run accommodation. With excellent skiing, food and activities, it’s a resort that truly has something to offer every group.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
I first discovered skiing in Serre Chevalier in 2010 and quickly fell in love with the freedom of cruising down the mountain, taking in the views and enjoying the occasional hot chocolate. Safe to say, that still sums up my skiing style today!
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
I would say currently the last 24 months, working with an amazing team building the ski department with GB Ski Tours alongside Beth, who I have worked with previously and being an integral part of the team.
Want to talk to Claire about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: Scotland & Northern England
DAVE GUY
SKI TOUR CONSULTANT
FUN FACT
I love pizza, but don’t like cheese!
Dave is a semi-retired PE teacher with 35 years of experience in State and Independent schools, and over 25 as a Head of Department/Director of Sport. He led over 50 school ski trips (France, Italy, Austria, Andorra, Switzerland, the USA and Canada).
DAVE, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love the mountains and the whole ski trip experience. I enjoy introducing skiing to young people and see them quickly progress. Set them up with a skill for life.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
I would say my favourite resort is Passo Tonale, as it has great memories as one of my very first trips as a teacher.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Every single time you finish a run and the buzz and exhilaration from that one turn when you think you‘ve nailed it.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
Wow, so many. Seeing boys and girls achieve so much through their hard work and our support. I take huge satisfaction with the number of ex pupils who are still playing sport years after leaving school.
Want to talk to Dave about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: Wales & South West England
STU HARDY
SKI TOUR CONSULTANT
FUN FACT
I did a ski season on Mount Buller, Victoria, Australia
Stu is a former PE teacher of 25 years and has been with GB for 6 years. He went skiing once at school and didn’t ski again until he was in his early 20’s.
STU, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Providing opportunities for groups to experience the thrill of a great ski trip. In particular, seeing children start the week as absolute beginners, unsure about skiing and finish the week excited to come back on another trip
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Claviere. This Italian resort access to great skiing and a lovely village. Les Deux Alpes is also challenging!
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
My best skiing moment was teaching both of my children to ski and develop a passion for skiing.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
Organising a ski trip for the school one of my former pupils now teaches at.
Want to talk to Stu about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: Key account manager
VIV ZIAR
HEAD OF SALES
FUN FACT
My girlfriend is OBSESSED with cross-country skiing. The whole winter is devoted to it… she is Swedish!
Viv has worked in the school ski/sports travel industry since 2008 when he finished university (with a short 5 year stint in IT, which he didn’t enjoy anywhere near as much!).
VIV, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The fact that teachers are my clients! I considered teaching myself and have great respect for teachers and they’re fun to work with, especially when organising a trip. Many go on to become close friends.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Obertauern – brilliant skiing, snow sure and the 4 star hotel we use is perfect for our groups with excellent service.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada) – skied Palisades, Heavenly and Northstar mainly – all three absolutely stunning with spectacular scenery!
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
Multiple teacher trips to Passo Tonale in particular have been great fun for GBST staff and teachers alike!
Want to talk to Viv about a ski tour for your group? Get in touch.
Area: Key account manager
DOMINIC MOORE
SKI TOUR OPERATOR
FUN FACT
I have an extra bone in my foot.
Dom has over 12 years’ experience in school travel, creating unforgettable experiences for young people. He’s been skiing since 14, introduced to the sport on his first trip with his best friend’s family—where his very first lesson came from his friend’s 9-year-old brother!
DOM, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The best part of my job is seeing students experience the mountains for the very first time. Every trip takes me back to being a young boy and heading away on school trips, which are still some of my favourite childhood memories. ​
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Grandvalira has everything you could want from a school ski trip. The skiing is fantastic for all abilities, the lift system is modern and efficient, and there's plenty of variety to keep everyone progressing throughout the week. The weather is usually brilliant too, and I somehow always come home with a fantastic winter tan!
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Waking up to fresh snowfall overnight and being one of the first people on the mountain. Blue skies, untouched powder and quiet slopes—it doesn't get much better than that.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
One of my proudest career moments was organising and supporting a ski trip for young people with SEND, watching their confidence grow and seeing them achieve things they never thought possible. It reinforced my belief that skiing can genuinely change lives and create lasting opportunities.
TAMSIN CARR
SKI TOUR OPERATOR
FUN FACT
I have a giant tortoise as a pet, his name is Neville Longbottom
Tamsin has always loved skiing, with the mountains truly being her happy place. From ski seasons in New Zealand and Italy, where she met her husband and became a BASI Level 2 instructor, to 12 years as a primary school teacher, skiing has remained a constant. She now returns to Italy each year to rep for school groups and enjoys skiing with her husband and three children, often in Scandinavia.
TAMSIN, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
GB is such a friendly and a supportive family team. I love the job because it combines all the things I am passionate about; organising things, skiing, education and giving children life experiences and best of all I work with a fabulous bunch of people.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
I love Italy's charm and village life, from enjoying gelato on cobbled streets to sharing traditional pizza in local pizzerias. That’s why I think Bardonecchia is perfect for school groups, combining fantastic skiing with an authentic Italian experience.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
I have so many ‘best’ skiing moments, including skiing past Boris Johnson! But watching my own children whizzing down the slopes squealing with joy is something incredibly special and fills me with pride.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
While working in Italy, I supported a group of children with disabilities on a 1-to-1 basis. Their resilience and determination, despite challenges including visual and hearing impairments, was truly inspiring, and the experience taught me so much.
DARREN WHATFORD
SKI TOUR OPERATOR
FUN FACT
I have raced against former British Olympic skier, Martin Bell. Obviously, I lost!
Darren has 18 years’ experience across the ski industry, from sales and operations to ski tech and resort rep, as well as being a qualified ski instructor. With 40 years on the slopes and experience skiing across Europe, Canada and the USA, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the team.
DARREN, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Helping others experience the same. The mountains are where I feel at home. I love the fresh air, the atmosphere, the vibe, the exercise and there’s nothing quite like the first run of the day to clear the cobwebs.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Obertauern in Austria. It’s a high snow sure resort, with a short airport transfer. There’s great skiing for all abilities, although best for beginners and intermediates. Although it’s a purpose built resort, it’s a charming Austrian town too, with plenty to do and gives you that classic ski resort feel when you think of what a ski resort should be.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Skiing La Pyramide (Pic de la Pyramide) in Alpe d-Huez. It’s an off-piste route reached via the Pic Blanc cable car, then a 45 minute hike to the Col de le Pyramide.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
There are too many to pick just one, but honestly, its seeing young people try skiing for the first time and then wanting to come back and go again — that's what makes it all worth it.
JOE BAILEY
PRODUCT MANAGER
FUN FACT
I tried snowboarding once. Never again.
Joe has been with GB Ski Tours for 5 years now, and has been skiing since he was just 15 years old. He has been fortunate enough to ski around the world, and it's one of his favourite things to do. Joe loves the mountains and everything they offer.
JOE, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The people and the relationships you build are so important and I love picking the brains of others and learning new things. To then be in a position where I can share that knowledge and those experiences with the younger generation is very special.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Obertauern, Austria. Fantastic value, snow sure conditions, high end accommodation, unique après activities and world class skiing! What's not to like?!
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Skiing on a volcano in the middle of July on the North Island in New Zealand!
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
Taking a group of 20 teachers to Passo Tonale resort in Italy for a Ski Fam trip in December 2024. We had brilliant weather conditions and an amazing group of people. It was the perfect build up to Christmas!
PAUL WEATHERLY
HEAD OF OPERATIONS
FUN FACT
My first ski trip was at school and my former PE teacher is now my boss.
Paul is Head of Operations at GB, and has been with us for over 16 years now!
PAUL, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love turning ideas into practical results. The best part is ultimately seeing our groups enjoy memorable experiences. The positive feedback we receive from customers makes all the hard work worthwhile and is exactly why we do what we do.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
Wagrain is my favourite school ski destination because it has everything a group needs. Great skiing, a safe and welcoming resort, and plenty to keep students engaged both on and off the slopes. It's a resort that consistently delivers for young skiers.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
I can vividly remember taking the wrong lift on a school ski trip and ending up on an unintended solo adventure down the mountain.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
My biggest career highlight has been seeing the business develop and thrive, while helping bring in talented colleagues who have played a key role in shaping the company we are today.
MARTIN MCGRATH
PRODUCT & OPERATIONS MANAGER
FUN FACT
I host my own travel podcast, Travel Our World.
Martin joined GB Ski Tours in March 2026, bringing a lifetime of experience in travel. Having skied since the age of seven and grown up in the mountains, after working both summer and ski seasons, the travel industry has always felt like home.
MARTIN, WHAT IS THE BEST BIT ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I love meeting suppliers across the travel industry, from family-run hotels and ski schools to restaurants and activity providers. Getting to travel, experience and test them for myself is definitely one of the perks!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESORT FOR SCHOOL GROUPS?
I've discovered so many great resorts in Austria lately, go to where the Beatles filmed Help! and ski Obertauern. For an amazing school trip right now, I'm loving the Grand Domaine of Saint-François-Longchamp and Valmorel. And I recently had my first Canadian experience, so definitely go try out the Rockies too.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SKIING MOMENT?
Finally nailing tricks in the park — landing my first backflip was unreal. These days, with older knees, I've moved more into ski touring, but nothing beats a wide-open groomer first thing in the morning.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
There are too many to pick just one, but honestly, its seeing young people try skiing for the first time and then wanting to come back and go again — that's what makes it all worth it.
Why Trust Us?
24/7
Support
Expert
Product Knowledge
Bespoke
Packages
Financially
Bonded
Safety
Management Systems