30 maart 2026

Sunday March 22, 2026

After months of preparation and growing anticipation, the two RSG Enkhuizen Cambridge atheneum 5 groups, 40 enthusiastic students, were more than ready to get on the flight to Malta. This was the start of a 12-day Erasmus+ study trip to Malta organised together with our Maltese partner.
In the coming 12 days the students will be working on their Erasmus+ research assignments and their personal diaries. The programme will enable them to explore their personal learning goals by focussing on multi-lingual competence, digital competence and international citizenship. The outcomes will be reflected in their personal diaries as well as in their personal, social and learning to learn goals.

Monday March 23, 2026
On Monday, we were given a warm welcome to Malta at the head office of our partner organisation. On our way there, we experienced torrential rain and flooded roads. Some students will be researching water management in Malta during their stay, this experience has shown them first hand the problems Malta is facing in this area.
After brief introductions, our host spoke about the problems students face these days. She encouraged students to think critically, but also stressed that the best way to move forward is to face challenges and change. She told the students that these 12 days would be another milestone along the way to this, enabling them to explore their personal learning goals. We ended on a lighter note with traditional Maltese snacks and a slice of tasty chocolate cake.
The weather had improved a lot by the time we arrived at Salina Nature Reserve, where we took a walk along the saltpans and learned more about the history of salt production, Malta’s white gold. The centuries-old Salina saltpans are a haven for birds on migration and the students had a good time bird-watching.
Students researching Malta’s fauna had a field day today as our next stop was a visit to Malta National Aquarium in Qawra. An enthusiastic guide showed us tanks that were designed to replicate the Maltese coastline, showcasing native marine life such as seahorses and octopuses. The highlight was a walkthrough tunnel, with sharks and rays swimming overhead. Awareness was raised for the impact of overfishing on the shark population and possible solutions were discussed for the plastic waste problem.
Back at base, we were welcomed with tasty dishes with lots of fresh local produce.

Tuesday March 24, 2026
On Tuesday, we visited Bormla Market and the Three Cities, Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua, with our knowledgeable guide Charlotte. She introduced us to Maltese history and laced her story with many memorable facts. We learned that the Knights of St. John were the first to introduce ice cream to Malta, but also how to prepare an artichoke Maltese style. She showed us the House of the Executioner in Birgu and talked about crime and punishment during the times of the Knights. In Birgu, we visited St Lawrence Church and we ended our tour at Fort St. Angelo where we marvelled at the strategic ingenuity of the Knights of St. John.