St Monica School Birkirkara is at present taking part in its second Comenius project. Our first project (2004-2007), Legends across Europe, focused on the folklore of the partner countries. The current project is entitled Walking together through Europe and lasts for two years. We are now in the second and final year of the project. Our school, which is also the project co-ordinator, is working with other schools from Italy, Germany and Turkey.

The main focus of our project is the active involvement in sports and outdoor activities of all the participants. The aims are that young people especially, will realise the importance of physical activity for a healthy life-style in activities which also nurture an appreciation for, and encourage the care of, our environment. It gives the participants the opportunity to discover the natural beauty of their own country which they can then pass onto their European partners through direct contact during project meetings and also through their web-sites. Our first walk took us to Dingli Cliffs, Buskett and Clapham Junction.

Comenius projects are funded by the European Union through its Lifelong Learning Programme and great emphasis is placed on travel exchanges between the partner schools. St Monica School hosted this project’s first meeting in November 2008. In May 2009 it was Germany’s turn to host while the next meeting is scheduled for the end of November 2009 in Rome. The final trip will be to Turkey in May 2010, bringing the project to an end.

These exchanges are an effective way for students to learn to make new friends from a foreign country and learn to accept the concept of diversity. It encourages them to communicate in English and other languages. Exchange visits also enable teachers to exchange ideas about the educational systems and learn new pedagogical methods.

The requirements of the modern labour market demand an open view of students to international issues and problems. By participating in international projects, the students will be prepared for the needs of their future professional life. They will become open to different cultures, languages and ways of life and they learn to accept and deal with them.

Through the two Comenius projects combined, 10 teachers and 30 students from St Monica School will have taken part in these mobility activities.

Project Meetings in Hamm, Germany and in Rome, Italy.

Project Meeting in Kayseri, Turkey.