Malta Students Trade Classrooms for Corsica’s Great Outdoors

Imagine swapping the hum of a classroom in Msida for the rustling of leaves in Corsica’s chestnut forests. That’s exactly what a group of Maltese students and teachers are doing, thanks to an innovative mobility project focused on healthy lifestyles. This week, a delegation from St. Aloysius College and St. Martin’s College set off for the French island, leaving behind the familiar streets of Malta for a week of learning in the great outdoors.

From Books to Bootcamp: A New Kind of Classroom

Forget chalk and talk. This mobility project, funded by the Erasmus+ programme, is all about getting active and learning through experience. The students and teachers will be participating in a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and canoeing to yoga and meditation. The goal? To promote healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and cultural understanding.

“We wanted to show our students that learning isn’t confined to the four walls of a classroom,” says Mr. Joseph Xuereb, one of the participating teachers. “Corsica offers a unique opportunity to learn in a different environment, one that encourages physical activity and a connection with nature.”

Corsica: A Breath of Fresh Air for Maltese Students

Corsica, an island in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, and vibrant culture. It’s a world away from the bustling streets of Malta’s capital, Valletta. The students and teachers will be based in Ajaccio, the island’s largest city, but they’ll be spending most of their time exploring Corsica’s great outdoors.

“We’ve planned visits to the stunning Scandola Nature Reserve, the Calanches de Piana, and the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Ajaccio,” says Ms. Maria Azzopardi, another participating teacher. “But it’s not just about sightseeing. We want the students to engage with the environment, to learn about its ecosystems and the importance of conservation.”

But it’s not all work and no play. The group will also have the chance to sample Corsican cuisine, learn about the island’s history and culture, and even try their hand at traditional dances.

Bringing the Outdoors Back to Malta

But the learning doesn’t stop when the group returns to Malta. The students and teachers will be sharing their experiences and knowledge with their peers back home. They’ll be organizing outdoor activities, workshops, and even a mini-exhibition to showcase what they’ve learned.

“We want to inspire our students and our community to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle,” says Mr. Xuereb. “And we want to show them that learning can happen anywhere, not just in a classroom.”

So, as the students and teachers trade in their school uniforms for hiking boots and swimsuits, they’re not just embarking on a holiday. They’re embarking on a journey of learning, growth, and discovery. And when they return, they’ll be bringing a piece of Corsica’s great outdoors back to Malta.