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Learning Through the Lens: Newark School’s Erasmus+ Exchange in Lithuania

From the 8th to the 12th of October 2025, a delegation of Newark School Malta students and teachers embarked on an inspiring Erasmus+ exchange week, graciously hosted by the Troškūnai Kazys Inčiūra Gymnasium in Lithuania. This trip stands as a powerful example of the school’s commitment to fostering a global perspective and providing learning opportunities far beyond the traditional classroom setting.

The exchange was built around a unique and challenging academic project: developing qualitative and quantitative criteria for landscape photography. This theme provided a perfect blend of art and science, requiring students to engage in deep analytical thinking. Through collaborative seminars, group discussions, and hands-on workshops, participants from both schools worked together, promoting creativity and strengthening their teamwork and communication skills.

The learning truly came to life during the practical fieldwork sessions. Students applied their new skills while exploring the stunning natural and cultural beauty of the Anykščiai Regional Park. The itinerary was packed with unforgettable educational experiences, including a breathtaking walk along the Treetop Walking Path, visits to observation towers overlooking Rubikiai Lake, and a major cultural excursion. This excursion took them to the coastal city of Klaipėda and the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its dramatic sand dunes and unique ecosystem.

This programme perfectly embodies Newark School’s commitment to a holistic education that balances academic rigor with real-world experience. These Erasmus+ projects are a cornerstone of our educational approach , designed to build independence, instil respect for diverse cultures, and forge lasting international friendships.

The exchange was an outstanding success, offering unforgettable cultural and educational moments. Our students return not only with new photography skills but with a deepened appreciation for nature, heritage, and the value of international collaboration.

Learning Through the Lens: Newark School’s Erasmus+ Exchange in Lithuania

From the 8th to the 12th of October 2025, a delegation of Newark School Malta students and teachers embarked on an inspiring Erasmus+ exchange week, graciously hosted by the Troškūnai Kazys Inčiūra Gymnasium in Lithuania. This trip stands as a powerful example of the school’s commitment to fostering a global perspective and providing learning opportunities far beyond the traditional classroom setting.

The exchange was built around a unique and challenging academic project: developing qualitative and quantitative criteria for landscape photography. This theme provided a perfect blend of art and science, requiring students to engage in deep analytical thinking. Through collaborative seminars, group discussions, and hands-on workshops, participants from both schools worked together, promoting creativity and strengthening their teamwork and communication skills.

The learning truly came to life during the practical fieldwork sessions. Students applied their new skills while exploring the stunning natural and cultural beauty of the Anykščiai Regional Park. The itinerary was packed with unforgettable educational experiences, including a breathtaking walk along the Treetop Walking Path, visits to observation towers overlooking Rubikiai Lake, and a major cultural excursion. This excursion took them to the coastal city of Klaipėda and the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its dramatic sand dunes and unique ecosystem.

This programme perfectly embodies Newark School’s commitment to a holistic education that balances academic rigor with real-world experience. These Erasmus+ projects are a cornerstone of our educational approach , designed to build independence, instil respect for diverse cultures, and forge lasting international friendships.

The exchange was an outstanding success, offering unforgettable cultural and educational moments. Our students return not only with new photography skills but with a deepened appreciation for nature, heritage, and the value of international collaboration.

From Malta to Macedonia: Elizabeth’s Erasmus Experience

I participated in the ‘Let’s play it again’ Erasmus project in North Macedonia and here is my honest opinion.

My week in North Macedonia was an unforgettable experience. My first impression was that it was very different from Malta and other countries I have been to. North Macedonia is a land rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. I really enjoyed learning about the local culture, especially through their traditional games. Playing these games with the locals was not only fun but also surprisingly familiar—I was struck by the similarities to the games I used to play back home. It was a unique and unexpected way to connect with the culture, making the experience even more meaningful.

I was also captivated by Macedonia’s stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes! In a time when nature is disappearing in many places, it was refreshing to see such pristine mountains, rivers, and forests.

Another highlight of my trip was meeting new people through the project. It was amazing to connect with participants from different countries, exchange ideas, and build friendships. I also loved the traditional food—it was delicious, with a variety of rich and unique flavours.

One of my favourite days was visiting Skopje, especially the bustling Old Bazaar. The vibrant atmosphere, colourful shops, and enticing aromas made it an unforgettable experience.

If you’re considering joining an Erasmus+ project, I would definitely recommend it! It’s even more fun if you go with a friend—you can explore together, share some laughs, and maybe even pull harmless pranks like ding-dong ditch! I’m already looking forward to my next project, exploring a new country, and having more incredible experiences.

Overall, my week in North Macedonia was filled with adventure, learning, and fun. It’s a truly special country, and I feel lucky to have visited it. I can’t wait to go back someday!

  • Written by student Elizabeth Herve

Cassandra’s Erasmus Adventure: Discovering North Macedonia”

This essay will be about my personal experience with Erasmus +.

This year, I was fortunate enough to get chosen to participate in an Erasmus project called “Let’s play it again”. I had gone with seven other students to North Macedonia – a beautiful country, full of picturesque nature, mountains and trees. It has also an interesting culture and delicious food!

Initially, I was a bit nervous to go on the trip since I wasn’t used to fly without parents, but the teachers were very supportive and protective, so I felt quite safe. They were also very kind and made the trip so much fun, and they weren’t too strict either!

During my stay, we visited many educational sites, different cities and schools. I learned a lot about North Macedonia and its rich culture.  I also really loved watching traditional dances other students showed us and it was a truly unforgettable experience! Moreover, I really improved my communication skills since we did a couple ice-breaking activities with others, which helped me to become more confident.

My favourite part of the trip was when we visited the capital city of North Macedonia, Skopje. It is a wonderful and beautiful city with many places to explore! We got to try not only some food and buy souvenirs, but also visited interesting museums, a mosque, with a beautiful chandelier, and an adorable cat walking around the mosque!  We also saw many old, but beautiful statues. Another thing I really loved was playing games, I got to learn new games and I even noticed similarities with games I used to play when I was younger!

However, if you are really considering going on Erasmus, it’s important to take note of the responsibilities and duties that come along with it! You might have to prepare presentations, testimonials or essays after or during the trip but this doesn’t make it any less enjoyable, and if anything, it can be fun to make presentations or essays or any other work that you might have to do.

Overall, this was an amazing project and if you ever get the opportunity to sign up for an Erasmus, I would totally recommend it! We created lots of unforgettable memories with my friends and even got to know them better. If I had the chance to, I would even go on a second Erasmus trip! The teachers were the best and getting to know the other students from all over Europe was a truly great experience. Learning about Macedonia and its culture was definitely exciting too. So, I do recommend participating in an Erasmus project!

  • Written by student Cassandra La Rose