January 2026

Student Exchange from the Augustinian College – Los Olivos in Malaga, Spain.

The ten Spanish students from Malaga has been in Malta with 2 teachers from Sunday 18 January to Sunday 25 January 2026. They were divided into five groups of two students each. A timetable was prepared for every group, with careful consideration given to varying the subjects as much as possible. The students were given the opportunity to join lessons in a wide range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Maltese, English Literature, Media, Home Economics, History, Geography, Social Studies, Physical Education, Sports & Fitness, KTI, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computing, ICT, FES, Italian, German, and French. These lessons were mainly attended with Year 9 and Year 10 groups; however, on some occasions, the students also joined Year 11 classes.

On Monday 19th, Ms Edel Deputy Head welcomed the students, gave them a tour of the school, and explained their individual timetables. They then attended three lessons and joined the boys for break time. After break, a Maltese culture session was held during which the students tasted a variety of traditional Maltese foods, including pastizzi, pizza with Maltese sausage, ftira, Twistees, and Maltese crackers with dips. This activity was very well received, with minimal leftovers, indicating that the Spanish students and their teachers thoroughly enjoyed the experience. At night, the students and the teachers were welcomed at the Augustinian Community, for eating together. They were very appreciative of this initiative.

On Tuesday 20th, although a full day of lessons had been planned, Storm Harry disrupted our College arrangements. Despite this, the students still had an enjoyable day with those students who were able to attend school. This was also when they bonded particularly well with the Year 11 students, with some of our students naturally taking on a leadership role. Activities included various games organised by Mr Paul, board games, and watching a film.

On Wednesday 21st, the students followed the timetables provided without any issues. Unfortunately, the planned fieldwork visit to Buskett on Thursday 22nd had to be cancelled due to inclement weather. Instead, the students attended lessons up to the sixth period. As the weather improved later in the day, the Spanish teachers and students left before so to sudents sightseeing.

On Friday, the students attended their scheduled lessons. At break time, at the request of the Year 11 students, they joined the boys in the gym to play handball. This was followed by an evaluation meeting. During this meeting, it was concluded that overall, the students had enjoyed their experience and felt very welcome within the school community. They expressed surprise at the relatively small class sizes, noting that in Spain classes can have up to thirty students, and commented positively on how hands-on many of the lessons were.

The Spanish teachers, Ms Marivi and Ms Alice, were extremely cooperative throughout the visit and ensured that their students adhered to the College rules at all times.

July 2025

Erasmus+ Experience in La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟔𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲, 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲, 𝐌𝐬 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐠𝐞𝐣𝐚, 𝐌𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚 𝐌𝐢𝐟𝐬𝐮𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐚, 𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐦𝐮𝐬+ 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐚 𝐋𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐧𝐚, 𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐞, 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧.

This international experience brought together educators from Poland, Italy, France, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and even the United States, all united by a shared interest in innovative teaching approaches.

The focus of the programme was outdoor learning, exploring how natural and urban environments can become dynamic classrooms. Through hands-on activities and expert-led sessions, participants engaged in field visits to a botanical garden, volcanic regions, various local urban areas, and the lush forests of Tenerife. These settings provided a real-world context to discuss how outdoor education supports academic learning while also promoting student wellbeing, mindfulness, and engagement.

Our educators returned with fresh insights into how outdoor spaces can inspire creativity, encourage collaboration, and foster a deeper connection to the world around us. The experience also highlighted the importance of student mental health and the powerful impact that nature-based learning can have on developing focus and emotional resilience.

Beyond the educational content, this Erasmus+ trip offered a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices with fellow teachers from across Europe and beyond. It was a time for learning, reflection, and inspiration, all within a vibrant international community.

The knowledge and experiences gained will undoubtedly influence future projects within our school, helping us to enrich our teaching strategies and promote more active, nature-connected learning among our students.

A heartfelt thank you to the organisers of the Erasmus+ programme, and to all the passionate educators who made the experience so memorable. We look forward to building on this momentum and sharing what we’ve learned with our College community.

Thanks goes to - EUPA Malta - Erasmus+ & European Solidarity Corps

September 2025

As part of the 2nd Round of the ERASMUS+ Accreditation Project 2025-1-MT01-KA121-SCH-000307272 coordinated by St Joseph Junior School, Blata l-Bajda, 10 Senior Leadership Team Members from St St. Augustine College, St Joseph Junior School Sliema, Our Lady Immaculate School, St Benilds School and the Secretariat for Catholic Education are currently attending a 3-day Training Course in Ghent. The training is focusing on Ai and Digital Leadership in Education. The SLT members shall be working together on a draft policy to address the use of AI in schools, particularly as a tool to ensure better inclusion and engagement of all students in their educational journey. From St Augsutine College, Ms Abigail Spiteri participated in this Erasmus+ activity

September 2025

A group of 9 educators from a consortium of partner schools are currently in Ljubljana, undergoing training in Ai and the 6Cs for Future-Ready Teaching as part of the Erasmus+ Accreditation Project 2025-1-MT01-KA121-SCH-000307272, coordinated by St Joseph Junior School, Blata l-Bajda . The course is targeting the project's objectives focusing on inclusion and engagement of students in their learning journey. From St Augustine College Ms Hannah Buttigieg, and Ms Cheyanne Brincat participated.

September 2025

in September 2025, as part of St Augustine College 𝐄𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐦𝐮𝐬+ 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓-𝟏-𝐌𝐓𝟎𝟏-𝐊𝐀𝟏𝟐𝟏-𝐒𝐂𝐇-𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟑𝟎𝟗𝟏𝟓𝟑, three LSEs from our Primary attended a course in Split Croatia in line with our Erasmus+ objectives. These are some insights from the participants.

EUPA Malta - Erasmus+ & European Solidarity Corps

Taking part in my first Erasmus+ training programme in Croatia was truly a memorable and eye-opening experience. The course focused on “Successful Teaching in a Mixed Ability Classroom – Meeting the Needs of Gifted Children” and from the very beginning, I felt excited and curious to learn.

Being in a room with teachers from across Europe was inspiring. We shared our views on education, discussed the challenges we face in our classrooms and explored ways to better support gifted students. I realised how similar many of our experiences are, despite coming from different countries. It was encouraging to see how much we can learn from each other.

Apart from the educational side, one of the most enjoyable parts was the time we spent together outside the classroom. We went on beautiful excursions around Croatia and that gave us the chance to connect on a more personal level. The natural beauty, the history and the relaxed atmosphere really added to the experience.

I also appreciated the opportunity to bond with the colleagues who came with me. Being away from our usual routines allowed us to talk more openly, share ideas and just enjoy each other's company.

This Erasmus trip helped me grow both professionally and personally. I came back with new ideas, new friendships and a broader perspective, not just on teaching, but on the value of cultural exchange and connection. I’m truly grateful for the experience.

𝐑𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞 𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐮𝐥

During this week, we were introduced to the Croatian educational system, gaining valuable insight into its structure and practices. This gave us the opportunity to compare it with other European educational systems, allowing us to reflect on similarities, differences, and approaches that could be applied in our own contexts. Such comparisons highlighted the diversity of educational methods across Europe and encouraged us to think critically about how these can be adapted to better meet the needs of our students.

An important part of the course focused on strategies to help students improve their concentration during lessons. We explored simple yet effective mind and body exercises that can be integrated into classroom routines. These activities not only support focus but also promote a positive learning environment by reducing stress and increasing engagement.

However, the most significant aspect of this training was learning how to identify students with gifted abilities. We discussed the characteristics of gifted learners and how to provide them with meaningful opportunities to express their talents. In addition, we reflected on how motivating gifted students to showcase their abilities can serve as a source of inspiration for their peers, fostering collaboration, creativity, and mutual respect within the classroom.

𝐉𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐚 𝐁𝐨𝐰𝐦𝐚𝐧

Participating in the Erasmus programme has been an invaluable experience. It was my first opportunity to travel abroad to attend a course in a foreign educational institution. The time spent in Croatia proved to be highly rewarding, as it enabled me to develop personally, emotionally, and socially, while also expanding my knowledge of different educational systems across Europe. Although the primary focus was on Croatia, I also gained insights into the systems of Portugal, Netherlands, Lithuania, Estonia, and Italy.

We also had the opportunity to engage in discussions with foreign colleagues regarding possible improvements within our profession. These conversations focused on identifying ways to make the role of the educator more positive and fulfilling. Furthermore, we reflected on how enhancing the professional environment could make the teaching profession more appealing to younger generations.

This experience was further enriched by the fact that I was accompanied by two colleagues, Joanna and Rianne. Throughout the days, which included extensive travel from and to Malta, as well as navigating Split, Croatia, without prior knowledge of the environment, we worked collaboratively to overcome challenges. During lectures, we supported one another both cognitively and professionally. This strengthened not only our teamwork skills but also our interpersonal relationships, fostering greater mutual respect and transforming our professional connection into a stronger sense of friendship.

Additionally, as this was my first visit to Split, Croatia, I had the opportunity to broaden my cultural understanding, which further enhanced the overall value of the experience.

𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐚

July 2024

Empowering Educators: Inclusive Teaching with AI – Dublin 2024

In July 2024, educators from across Europe gathered in Dublin, Ireland, for a transformative Erasmus+ training course titled “Inclusive Teaching with Artificial Intelligence”, hosted by Europass Teacher Academy. The course aimed to equip teachers with the knowledge and tools to integrate AI technologies into their classrooms in ways that promote inclusion, engagement, and innovation.

Among the participants were Dorianne Sghendo and Antonella Fenech, two Learning Support Educators (LSEs) who delivered a compelling presentation summarizing their learning journey and practical applications of AI in inclusive education.

Course Highlights

The training focused on:

• Understanding the evolution and impact of AI in education.
• Exploring AI tools that support inclusive teaching practices.
• Addressing ethical concerns and fears surrounding AI development.
• Developing effective prompting techniques to maximize AI’s potential in the classroom.

Participants were introduced to a variety of AI platforms and tools, including:

• ChatGPT and Copilot for generating content and engaging in dialogue.
• Poe, a customizable chatbot platform tailored to students’ academic levels and needs.
• Suno, for creating educational songs and poems.
• Miro and MyLens.ai, for collaborative brainstorming, mind mapping, and timeline creation.
• Gamma, for generating visually rich presentations.
• Brainy Documents, which converts PDFs into explainer videos.
• Twee, an AI-powered assistant for lesson planning, quiz creation, and content adaptation.

Presentation by Dorianne Sghendo & Antonella Fenech

In their presentation to all staff at the beginning of the year in September 2024, they have emphasized the practical integration of AI in inclusive classrooms. Key takeaways included:

• Creating Inclusive Chatbots: Using Poe to design bots that guide students through tasks without giving direct answers, fostering independence and critical thinking.
• Prompt Engineering: Demonstrating how to craft effective prompts by being clear, specific, and context-aware—skills essential for both teachers and students.
• Creative Engagement: Showcasing tools like Suno and Gamma to make lessons more engaging for diverse learners, including those with different learning styles or language needs.
• Lesson Design with AI: Highlighting how tools like Twee can support differentiated instruction by generating tailored content, questions, and assessments.

Their session concluded with a reflection on the importance of teacher adaptability in the age of AI and the need to balance innovation with ethical responsibility.

Then in their respective campus, during meetings with others teachers and LSEs, in dedicated time, they have disseminated and shared more practical matters to LSEs and teachers

Conclusion

The Inclusive Teaching with AI course in Dublin was a powerful reminder that technology, when used thoughtfully, can be a great equalizer in education. By embracing AI, educators like Dorianne and Antonella are not only enhancing their teaching practices but also ensuring that every learner has a voice and a path to success.

July 2024

The Connemara Maths Academy (CMA) Erasmus+ experience at Carlingford Lough in Ireland in July 2024 offered a transformative educational experience that blended STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—with outdoor adventure and creative exploration. CMA is renowned for its innovative, hands-on learning ethos that emphasizes discovery, creativity, and adventure. Students participated in a wide range of engaging workshops, including rocket science, 3D modeling and printing, coding, robotics, and green screen film production. These were complemented by creative technologies such as podcasting, stop-motion animation, and music production. The natural setting of Carlingford Lough provided the perfect backdrop for applying scientific and mathematical concepts in real-world contexts, such as physics in sports and environmental science. The program also included high-energy adventure activities like kayaking, high ropes, and team challenges, fostering resilience and collaboration. CMA’s learning objectives centered on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork skills, while nurturing each student’s confidence and curiosity. With participants from across Ireland and around the world, it was a vibrant, multicultural environment where students not only learned but thrived together

These are some comments of the students in this Erasmus+ experience

Luca:
I really enjoyed learning in nature. The adventure was challenging, but it helped me grow. I learned to observe mathematics in everyday situations. One skill I developed was leadership, especially when I led a group during the Dragons' Den game.

Carl Zammit Bondin:
I was truly impressed by the greenery and natural surroundings—we don’t see this kind of beauty in Malta. I especially enjoyed the film-making experience.

Alexander Spiteri Fiteni:
Skyparks was my favorite part because it combined adventure with brain teasers. I learned how to live more independently and collaborate with others. A skill I’ll always value is leadership and the confidence to stand up for myself.

Issac Caruana:
This was a completely new experience for me, and I really enjoyed it. I gained a deeper appreciation for how science applies to everyday life. One important skill I learned was how to stay safe on a mountain.

Luca Sacco:
I really enjoyed film-making. It made me realize how much coordination and preparation are needed to produce even a few minutes of video. I also developed the ability to connect with people I didn’t know before.

Gabriel:
The science we learned was fascinating. I never imagined that you could make a rocket using just a plastic bottle and some water! A skill I’ll cherish is working efficiently as part of a team.

Denzil:
I really appreciated seeing how science is used in everyday life. I also learned how crucial teamwork is to successfully completing a task.

Riley:
I was amazed by how physics applies to sports, especially in basketball. The math behind it really stood out. Nature also made a big impression on me from the very first day. I had the opportunity to be a leader, and that’s a skill I’ve refined and will definitely use in the future.

Jake:
The most impressive part for me was the natural environment. Living with a group of people I hadn’t spent much time with before helped me grow. In just a few days, we became real friends.

The Connemara Maths Academy (CMA) offers a unique and enriching Erasmus+ group mobility experience that blends STEAM education with cultural exchange and outdoor adventure. Based in Ireland, CMA is renowned for its immersive learning philosophy—"Discovery, Creativity & Adventure"—which is at the heart of its residential programs. Through Erasmus+ group mobility, students from across Europe, including Malta, participate in a dynamic curriculum that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) with real-world applications and collaborative learning.

Participants engage in a wide variety of workshops such as 3D modeling and printing, rocket building, robotics, coding, music technology, and green screen film production. These are complemented by adventure activities like kayaking, high ropes, orienteering, and team challenges, all designed to build confidence, leadership, and teamwork. The program also emphasizes intercultural learning, as students from diverse backgrounds come together to share experiences, solve problems, and build lasting friendships.

CMA’s Erasmus+ mobility projects aim to:

• Promote critical thinking and problem-solving through hands-on STEAM activities.
• Enhance communication and collaboration across cultures.
• Foster independence, resilience, and leadership in a supportive environment.
• Encourage environmental awareness and appreciation of nature through outdoor learning.