Sponsored this year by 4x4 tour company Atlas Overland, the trek was Josh's reward for beating off a challenge from 30 other students, shortlisted to seven. Eventually, Josh found himself in the final three, and his attitude and samples of his work won over the judges.
“Josh was just what we'd been looking for,” said Peter Girling, who runs Atlas Overland and jointly launched the scheme. “He was keen as mustard and had the energy and enthusiasm needed to take some stunning pictures. I hope he benefits from the experience.”
The trip ran south from Calais into southern France, over old trade routes, then up into Italian mountain villages at the base of a 10,000-foot glacier. On the return trip, the route took in an off-road driving site at Val d'Isere before heading, via Mont Blanc, back to the ferry.
The great news for the UK's photography students is that the initiative will be run again next year, at another college or university, with another amazing trip available to the most promising student.
“If I were to do it again, I would get a motorbike and drive ahead,” said Josh, who lives in Camberley, Surrey. “That would enable the photographer to set up better shots.”
