Maltese students complete Erasmus+ mobility in Alicante

A group of six Maltese students, accompanied by two teachers, from the Alternative Learning Programme school of Paola, recently returned from a week-long Erasmus+ student mobility in Alicante, Spain, where they took part in a structured programme combining academic engagement with cultural immersion.

The mobility formed part of an ongoing collaboration bet­ween the Maltese school and its Spanish partner institution, IES Benejuzar, aimed at promoting European cooperation, intercultural understanding and the development of key competences among young learners.

Academic integration at the host school

Throughout the week, the Maltese students attended lessons at the partner school in Alicante, integrating in regular classes alongside their Spanish peers. The experience exposed them to different teaching approaches, classroom dynamics and subject delivery methods, particularly in the areas of languages, digital literacy and project-based learning.

It was a valuable opportunity for both the students and educators to observe how learning takes place in a different European context.

Our students were able to participate actively in lessons, collaborate with their Spanish counterparts and gain confidence in communicating in English and a few words in basic Spanish.

At first, the students were a bit nervous about joining classes in another country, but the teachers and students made them feel at home. They learned a lot, not only from the lessons but also from seeing how students their age study and work together. They also made friends with the local students.

Cultural excursions across Alicante

Beyond the classroom, the mobility included a series of cultural excursions designed to deepen the students’ understanding of the region’s history, traditions and identity.

The group visited the La Alcudia archaeological site in Elche and saw the famous bust of the Lady of Elche, explored the Phoenician archaeological site of Cabezo Lucero in Guardamar del Segura, and toured the huge Palm grove in Orihuela. They also visited the Alicante cathedral and other museums, among other places.

Cultural exposure is a central pillar of the Erasmus+ programme. By visiting historical sites and engaging with local culture, students develop a broader perspective of Europe and a stronger appreciation for diversity.

These excursions were both educational and memorable. It made them realise how rich Alicante’s history is. They also enjoyed tasting Spanish food and learning about local traditions.

Personal growth, lasting impact

The mobility has had a significant impact on the students’ personal development. The participants are showing increased independence, adaptability and intercultural awareness − skills the Erasmus+ programme seeks to cultivate.

The change in the students was noticeable within just a few days. They became more confident, more curious and more willing to step outside their comfort zone. These experiences will stay with them for life.

The mobility opened their eyes to new possibilities. Several are now interested in taking part in future exchanges or pursuing further studies abroad.

“It made us realise that Europe is full of opportunities, and we want to explore more of them,” one of the students said.

Strengthening European partnerships

The mobility also reinforced the partnership between the Maltese and Spanish schools, with both institutions expressing commitment to continuing joint projects, teacher exchanges and future student mobilities.

The programme aligns with Malta’s broader educational goals of fostering international collaboration and preparing students for an increasingly interconnected world.

Further Erasmus+ activities are planned for the coming academic year, offering more Maltese students the chance to participate in similar international learning experiences.

Emanwel Zammit teaches automobile engineering and is the school’s Erasmus projects coordinator.