TWO weeks ago, Mansfield Secondary Colleges students had the opportunity to complete a week of work experience on the slopes of Mount Buller.

Year 10 student Emma De Montfort Wellborne with the ski patrol team.

She started skiing eleven years ago when she was four.

“I’ve done multiple programs, such as snow squad, race club and last year I came second for skier cross in my age group and gender,” she said.

“To be in ski patrol you need to have your own skiing and snowboard equipment, health and first aid certificate or some kind of certificate amongst that.

“For me, I got a health and first aid certificate at school, and I already have the ability to ski and snowboard.”

Emma helped with tasks such as sweeping to ensure the runs were skiable, putting out nets and pulling injured skiers off of the snow.

“It can get quite chilly out in the elements, but it’s a lot of fun and a great job,” she said.

After Emma finishes high school, she would love to come back to the mountain and gain more experience.

"Our work experience program is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore a diverse range of careers, from outdoor operations and trades to office work, hospitality, and retail," said Mt Buller's Ryoma Parker.

"Our team loves having these students on board, and it’s incredibly rewarding for everyone involved."

Quotes from some other students who spend their week up on the mountain:

• Leo – “I enjoyed shaping lips in the park.”

• Lewis – “I liked working at the T-Bar.”

• Phoenix – “Working down at Summit chair and bumping chairs, also liked learning about the tablet and controls at Bourke St Express.”

• Millie – “The best thing about it is being in the Buller ski lift community and I absolutely loved assisting guests”

• Taz – “Really enjoyed learning new skills and liked working with all the fitters.”