Dwardu's Scoops - Sports Day Results

Volume 3

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21 March 2024

Dwardu’s Scoops ST EDWARD’S COLLEGE NEWSLETTER

Investigating Decision making in schools As part of a University credit, Ms Samantha Giordmaina Zammit, and our very own Head

of Senior School, Mr Daniel Caruana Smith, have embarked on a professional development journey by shadowing two diligent head of sections in the Junior School at St Edward’s College, Ms Louise Mallia and Ms Stephanie Grech. This one-week study visit entailed studying and refining communication and decision-making leadership practices while concurrently fulfilling the requirements of their Master’s in Educational Leadership and Management studies at the University of Malta.

While at College, seven short individual interviews were conducted with influential school personnel. Observation sessions were conducted during the morning assembly of different sections within the college, board group meetings, one-to-one meetings, IEP and some lessons. The school routines and procedures were observed by being present on the school premises for the duration of the study-visit. This strategic approach is grounded in the belief that an immersive experience within a senior management team can provide insights into effective leadership and instructional strategies. Being directly on the field, observing daily routines are valuable in getting information and insight of how some aspects are handled while interacting with everybody

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The Big Day

Book Day

@ St Elmo

Boarding Fun

Results for Sports Day

Little Poirots

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doing their everyday tasks. This provides rich and authentic understanding of the cultural behaviour and the importance posed by the context. This exposure certainly helped these two dedicated educators in comparing the theory learnt at University with what really happens in practice (Creswell & Creswell, 2018; Kemp, 2001; Mulhall, 2003).

As Danielson (2007) highlights, peer observation plays a pivotal role in the improvement of teaching practices. In the context of their shadowing experience, Ms Giordmaina Zammit and Mr Caruana Smith align with Danielson's assertion that peer observation facilitates reflective practice, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement, which is already evident at College.

Reflecting, engaging, evaluating, and debating upon issues observed was a great opportunity for both educators not only to learn on a personal level but also to learn from each other. Comparing observation notes helped in challenging each other’s findings and developing observational and analytical observation skills providing a richer understanding of the area under study (Kawulich, 2005; Kennedy, 2013).

Hord and Tobia's study on professional learning communities (PLCs) (2012) further supports the collaborative nature of the educators' decision to conduct their research within the Junior school at St Edward’s College. Their findings underscore the importance of building professional learning communities and fostering teacher growth. The importance of a shared culture of learning, where educators can exchange ideas and strategies is also brought forth. By immersing themselves in the senior management team's daily activities, both educators have harnessed the power of collaborative learning, and integrated it into their own professional arsenal.

Joyce and Showers' research on peer coaching and observation (2002) provides additional validation for the duo's initiative. Their study highlights the effectiveness of peer coaching as a potent tool for improving teaching practices and student outcomes. Ms Giordmaina Zammit and Mr Caruana Smith’s decision to shadow the senior management team aligns with Joyce and Showers' findings, as they actively seek to observe and learn from experienced leaders in the field, and while task.

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In their quest of investigating communication and decision-making, findings supported the theory as there is a close link between communication and making decisions. Robbins & Judge (2013) argue that the ultimate function of communication is to facilitate decision-making thus improving one would effectively improve the other. Griffin and Moorhead (2014) state that, “communication is essential to decision-making process. Information is needed to define problems, generate and evaluate alternatives, implement decisions, and control and analyse results obtained. Finally, communication expresses feelings and emotions. Organizational communication is far from merely a collection of facts and figures”.

There is no doubt that Ms Giordmaina Zammit and Mr Caruana Smith will be applying and sharing the lessons learned from their experience in their careers as leaders. Surely these educators won’t forget how welcome all the staff made them feel and truly appreciate how helpful every member of College is.

References:

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Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (5th ed.). Sage Publications, Inc. • Danielson, C. (2007). Enhancing professional practice: A framework for teaching. ASCD.

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Griffin, R. W. & Moorhead, G. (2014) Organizational Behavior Managing People and Organiza-

tions. South Western: Cengage.

• Hord, S. M., & Tobia, E. M. (2012). Professional learning communities: Communities of continuous inquiry and improvement. In A. Hargreaves & M. G. Fullan (Eds.), Professional capital: Transforming teaching in every school (pp. 159-182). Teachers College Press.

• Joyce, B., & Showers, B. (2002). Student achievement through staff development. ASCD. • Kawulich, B. B. (2005). Participant Observation as a Data Collection Method. Forum: Qualitative social research. 6:2. 43

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Kemp, E. (2001) Observing practice as participant observation - linking theory to practice, Social Work Education, 20:5, 527-538, DOI: 10.1080/02615470120072823

•

Kennedy C. Participant observations as a research tool in a practice based profession. Nurse

Researcher (through 2013).

1999;7(1):56. https://ejournals.um.edu.mt/login?url=https:// www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/participant-observations-as-research-tool/ docview/200770931/se-2.

•

Mulhall, A. (2003), In the field: notes on observation in qualitative research. Journal of Ad-

vanced Nursing, 41: 306-313. https://doi-org.ejournals.um.edu.mt/10.1046/j.1365-2648.2003.02514.x

•

Robbins, S. P. & Judge, T. A. (2013). Organizational Behavior. 17 ed. England: Pearson.

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Volume 3

A day at Majjistral Park

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By Irene Attard

During the mid-term holidays the boarders had the opportunity to visit one of the most

beautiful sites on the island, Majjistral Nature and History Park in Mellieha. The perfect sunny day with a touch of Mediterranean breeze provided the perfect setting for the activity. The boarders went for a lovely hike along the cliffs and then for a much -needed rest on the beach for some Vitamin D. Once on the beach and because let's be honest no matter how old we get once on the beach and sand is ready available, we will all find ourselves building a sandcastle, the boarders were no exception. Afterwards they were treated to lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the beach and the amazing blue sea. The perfect ending to a lovely day.

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A Day to remember During the last week of November 2023, I remember having an earworm. For those unfamiliar with the term, an earworm is that snippet of a song that keeps looping in your brain until you are thoroughly sick of it. In my case, I kept hearing “I can feel it coming in the air tonight…hold on”. As the winter chill was setting in, not thoughts of hygge or Netflix and chill were on my mind as this earworm looped on.

Rather, ominous thoughts of workloads to come. It was time to get started on the Careers Fair.

Then we had a brainwave. Because, you know, an earworm is

not enough.

We decided to unify the Careers fair and the Science fair and declare the day an Open Day for anyone to pop in and see how the College operates on a day-to-day basis. I was excited…bit of a challenge I thought.

So the prep work started. Emails were sent out to all companies on our mailing list. More companies were contacted and

added. The philosophy behind this event is that aside from ‘staples’ such as accountancy, law etc, the boys are exposed to other possibilities for career paths. To this end, we try to expand our horizons as much as possible with interests as var-

ied as geology, astrophysics, medicine, law, maritime affairs, public service law enforcement, environmental planning and theoretical physics. This year we had 40 exhibitors and 51 speakers. The boys were given a timetable and had to manage their time, plan their day and find a balance between attending at least 5 lectures and their duties at the Science Fair and the Open Day. This, in itself, is training in ef-

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fective time management, a concept of great importance in a world where increasingly, every minute counts.

Meanwhile, work on the Science Fair was underway. I will not be saying

much about that as my colleagues have written a piece in this publication.

On my part, however, I always look forward to greeting Diego, the Lab Skeleton.

Using social media to promote the event, particularly the tours for the Open Day, proved to be a great success as bookings for the tours started pouring in. We had 7 tours in total and all of these were heavily subscribed. Mr Jolen Galea assisted by giving directions where people were doubtful where they had to go. The tours were coordinated by Ms Irene Attard with her posse of IB Students. Ms Vivian Borg was holding the fort at the Gazebo with answers to any queries about admissions that prospective parents might have. And ask they did,

as they watched the students and pupils from Junior School and Early Years make full use of the facilities within the college. It is indeed a joy to see the harmonious operations of teachers and pupils as they both travel the road to more learning.

Meanwhile, in the Hall, the stands put up by the exhibitors were very well attended. The boys were inquisitive and acquisitive (they really like merchandise!). The exhibitors had words of praise for our students, particularly for the logical and critical approach to the questions they placed as well as the genuine interest shown. All the exhibitors requested to participate again next year and after the fair was over, the college also received emails from prospective exhibitors.

For those who wanted a little bit of warmth, the Canteen remained open all day, providing all

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with hot beverages, snacks and food. Their work was supplemented by various entrepreneurial activities undertaken by the students. From sweet delights to raise money for the School Council to Jam and Marmalade from fruit grown at College, from handmade jewelry to ergonomic cushions for JAYE, our students showed a flair for sales and innovation. Once inside the canteen, one could appreciate two exhibitions which were on display. One

exhibition was set up by the older students and was meant to be a fundraiser for their end-of-school do. This was a Watch Exhibition entitled Timeless Pieces. Some of the boys are collectors of timepieces and their

knowledge of the watches they displayed was remarkable. Another exhibition was by a group of Scale Modelers led by an Old Edwardian Peter Calleja. These models are amazing in the detail they portray and are excellent tools

for the practical demonstration of historical realities such as war tanks, planes etc.

Across from the canteen, the students who are specializing in IT, led by Ms Erika Camilleri delved into the world of robotics. They demonstrated their impressive abilities through the robot they built themselves. The look of intent and fierce concentration on their faces as they operated this robot was a sight to behold.

As the afternoon wore on and the adjudication of the Science projects neared completion, The Tuneful Trio regaled the gathering crowd with songs culminating in the iconic The Big Bang Theory theme Song…ending their repertoire with a bang. The prizes for the projects were announced

but, in truth, so much hard work was put into the projects by all concerned that everyone was a winner.

The day slowly drew to a close and the curtains were drawn on a very successful event. Of course, each event brings with it its own set of lessons, this one being no exception. These will be taken on board so that next year we can promise an even better trio of activities.

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Trying their hand at traditional dishes

By Irene Attard

Living away from home is never easy but one of the most challenging aspects is getting used to a different cuisine. We all miss those traditional dishes that our loved ones cook for us. Especially when we are away from home for a long

period of time. Nothing will replace family meals and traditional home cooking but we encourage our boarders to start new traditions and to develop skills that will come in handy in life when they will be living on their own.

Two of our boarders took advantage of this relatively quiet period after their exams and various academic commitments and spent some of their free time in the kitchen together with our resident chefs. They decided to cook Pelmeni, which are traditional Russian dumplings. They decided to share a taste of their traditional cuisine with all the boarders and the staff. Under the guidance and assistance of Chef Shaun and Chef Mark they prepared over two hundred Pelmeni for everyone to try.

We hope to have the opportunity to try as many traditional dishes as possible in the coming months!

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Reflecting on Maltese History and Literature—a day at Fort St Elmo

By Kimberly Psaila for the Department of Maltese

Recently, the Maltese department organized a poignant outing to Fort St Elmo in Valletta for the students in Yr 8. It offered the students a vivid insight into Malta's experience during

World War II. This educational excursion not only deepened their understanding of the island's wartime struggles but also provided a tangible connection to the themes explored in George A. Said Zammit's prose book, "Emilia."

As we stepped foot into the historic fort, the significance of our visit began to unfold. Divided

into three groups, each student had the opportunity to engage with various aspects of the outing, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience for all.

The tour itself proved to be a captivating journey through time. Led by knowledgeable guides, students explored the fortifications, encountered authentic weapons used during World War II, admired vintage aircraft, and examined military uniforms. With each artifact and exhibit, the narrative of Malta's wartime resilience came to life, leaving a profound impact on the young minds present.

Meanwhile, the art session offered a creative outlet for students to express their reflections on Malta's wartime history. Against the backdrop of Valletta's skyline and the Church of St Publius in Floriana—both significant sites heavily affected by bombardment during the war—students were tasked with capturing the atmosphere of the era. Armed with chalk, they meticulously recreated scenes of destruction and resilience, evoking the sights and sounds of World War II. The exercise not only honed their artistic skills but also fostered empathy and understanding for the hardships endured by Maltese citizens during those 10

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tumultuous times.

In parallel, the digitization segment provided a modern twist to the exploration of history. Students engaged in activities aimed at preserving and documenting Malta's heritage digitally, ensuring that future generations could continue to learn from the past. From scanning documents to digitizing photographs, this hands-on experience underscored the importance of preserving collective memory and historical records for posterity.

Throughout the day, a palpable sense of camaraderie and shared learning prevailed among the students. Discussions flowed freely, with each individual drawing connections between their experiences at Fort St Elmo and the narrative presented in "Emilia." The outing served not only as an educational endeavour but also as a platform for personal reflection and growth.

As the day drew to a close, it was evident that the outing had left a lasting impression on all who participated. Armed with newfound knowledge and a deeper appreciation for Malta's history, students departed Fort St Elmo with hearts and minds enriched by the experience. Indeed, this excursion served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and fortitude of the Maltese people in the face of adversity—a lesson that will undoubtedly resonate with them for years to come.

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Murder, they wrote—learning science through forensics

By Samantha Abela

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Middle School students are embarking on a journey into the captivating realm of forensic science. Spearheaded by the visionary Ms. Stephanie Wilkinson and a team of dedicated teachers, this innovative project promises to captivate the minds of Year 7-8 students as they delve into the intricacies of forensic techniques. The project, set to unfold over the course of several

weeks, will see students immersing themselves in four key forensic disciplines: • Blood Splattering and Analysis, • Finger Printing, • Handwriting Analysis, and • Fiber Analysis.

Through hands-on learning experiences and expert guidance, students will unravel the mysteries behind these crucial investigative tools.

The project kicked off with a riveting scenario that left students on the edge of their seats. On the 23rd of February, during the Friday Activities slot, the entire school was drawn into a gripping simulation as the body of a victim, Charlotte Bennett, was discovered in the science lab. Portrayed by the talented Ms. Annette Agius, the victim's discovery sparked a flurry of activity as the drama unfolded. The actual presence of the

Malta Police Force, for whose kind collaboration the College is most grateful, added a touch of reality to the proceedings, further heightening the drama and excitement.

Under the watchful eye of the "police" and "medical examiner," portrayed by the Headmaster and Ms. Zarkova respectively, students were granted access to the crime scene to gather 20

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evidence and document their findings. With a sense of responsibility and professionalism, students meticulously combed through the scene, noting crucial details and potential clues. Following their investigation, students convened in the Chapel where they were introduced to the overarching project by Ms. Wilkinson. Dr. Morgan, portrayed by Ms. Zarkova, provided valuable insights into the forensic techniques they would soon be learning, setting the stage for an exhilarating journey of discovery.

In the weeks that followed, students were treated to an enlightening talk by the real CSIs of Malta, courtesy of the Malta Forensic Laboratories. Led by Chief Inspector Charlot Casha, students gained firsthand knowledge from professionals in the field, further enriching their understanding of

forensic science.

As the project progresses, students will rotate through various workshops to master each forensic technique, paving the way for a comprehensive understanding of investigative processes. Weekly updates will document the unfolding investigation, from uncovering motives to identifying suspects, culminating in a thrilling mock trial slated for May. Through this immersive project, students are not only acquiring valuable skills in critical thinking and problem-solving but also cultivating a deeper appreciation for the intricate world of forensic science. As they embark on this thrilling journey of discovery, the Middle School students are poised to leave an indelible mark on the field of investigation and justice.

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The triumph of the Collective Spirit The Middle School and Senior School Student Council's recent hotdog and juice sale proved to be an outstanding triumph, drawing in crowds of eager supporters and raising funds for

essential school enhancements. Held against the backdrop of a gloriously sunny day, the event unfolded amidst the spirited atmosphere of Sports Day, adding an extra layer of excitement to the proceedings. With an array of delectable hotdogs and refreshing juices on offer, the stand quickly became a hub of activity, attracting students, parents, and staff alike. The overwhelming turnout and enthusiastic participation from the school community were instrumental in the event's success, demonstrating the collective spirit and support that thrives within our school.

Heartfelt gratitude is extended to all the students and parents who generously contributed to the sale, whether through donations or purchases. Your unwavering support and enthusiasm have played a pivotal role in helping the Student Council achieve its fundraising goals. The proceeds from the sale will be directed towards a noble cause – the transformation of a nondescript wall into a vibrant green area, complete with benches for students to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, funds will be allocated towards upgrading facilities in the locker rooms, enhancing the overall experience for students.

As we reflect on the triumph of the hotdog and juice sale, we are reminded of the incredible power of community and collaboration. It is through initiatives like these that we come together to create positive change and enrich the school environment for the benefit of all.

With the success of this event as inspiration, we look forward to continuing to work together towards our shared goals and aspirations.

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Science in the Air

By Stephanie Wilkinson , Ann Cassar Torreggiani and Radka Zarkhova

This first-time exposure to a long-term science project helped the students become more independent learners and

critical thinkers. Some of the students found the task challenging, some enjoyable, some both.

Breaking the project into smaller tasks and spreading them out over time fostered a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Moreover, building excitement and anticipation throughout the process contributed to a greater engagement among the students.

Exploring the theme of "Planet Earth" and “Eco Hub” provided students with a rich and diverse array of topics to delve into.

From learning about the processes that drive weather patterns to the formation of different landforms and habitats, from the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems, to the impact of human activities on the environment, from the smallest living creatures on the planet to the grand disasters on Earth, from robots to gravity.

All the above and more in one day- that was an unforgettable experience not only for the young people, but also for the parents, teachers, judges, and guests.

Incorporation of hands-on experiments, interactive demonstrations, and engaging activities made this science project not only pure fun for the students, but also led to the formation of a new connection to the natural world around them.

By putting their hearts and minds into action, the students were able to overcome challenges, learn from failures, and celebrate successes.

Heritage Malta contributed to the excitement by donating awards to the winning teams by means of a science experience at the

Diagnostic Labs.

Ms Roslyn Debattista was acting on their behalf as a judge and was impressed with the level of preparation, motivation, and eagerness of the students. She shared her difficulties with choosing the winners since many of 23

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them deserved acknowledgement of effort and in fact, she awarded 1 st place to 2 teams from Y7.

Ms Debattista’s final decision was based on the ability of the students to communicate their science knowledge best during the presentations.

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Opening windows on new worlds—World Book Day 2024 World Book Day at St Edward’s College, celebrated on March 7th, was a vibrant and joyous occasion this year. With the sun shining brightly, it seemed like the perfect backdrop for a day dedicated to literature and storytelling.The Year 7 and 8 students we encour-

aged to immerse themselves in the world of books through a series of engaging activities, each designed to spark creativity and ignite a passion for reading. One of the activities was the creation of comic strips showcasing favorite scenes from recent reads. Students let their imaginations run wild as they illustrated scenes, characters, and dialogues, bringing their favourite stories to life on paper. Another highlight of the day was the opportunity for students to share meaningful quotes from their favourite books. With colorful speech bubbles decorated with quotes credited to their authors, students showcased their love for literature and the power of storytelling. The school buzzed with excitement as students proudly shared their favourite quotes, inspiring others to explore new worlds through the pages of a book.

For those eager to spread the joy of reading, volunteering to read stories to our Early Years students was a rewarding experience. With sign-up slots limited to a few students, each storyteller had the chance to practice their storytelling skills under the guidance of experienced educators. They captivated their young audiences with tales of adventure and imagination. The stories ranged from Pirate adventures to Easter Rabbits on a mission to stories about dogs. They also read the touching book: The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse too.

Meanwhile, the Year 8 students delved into the history of books and their production, creating informative charts exploring the fascinating world of old books. From the

invention of the printing press by Gutenberg to the evolution of bookbinding techniques, students delved deep into the rich history of literature, tying in perfectly with their History lessons. In addition to these activities, Ms. Said led English lessons focused on creating enticing book covers, further igniting students' creativity and appreciation for the art of storytelling. She also helped Ms Moore the Head of the Department for English to set up a reading space and a book borrowing service for the day too. Also a Year 7 Class took to the outdoors as they conducted a Maltese reading lesson outside too.

Overall, World Book Day was a resounding success, with students embracing the magic of books and celebrating the joy of reading. It was a day filled with laughter, inspiration, and a shared love for literature, making March 7th a day to remember for years to come.

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Drawing hearts

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By Stephanie Wilkinson

At St. Edwards College, education isn't confined to the four walls of a classroom. Recently, our Year 10 Biology students embarked on an unforgettable journey delving into the intricate structures and functions of the heart. Recognizing the challenge of memorizing its many details, we decided to take a hands-on approach to ensure a deeper understanding.

On a sunny morning, the usual classroom setting was abandoned in favour of the great outdoors. Armed with chalk and the vast canvas of the ground, students eagerly gathered in groups, ready to bring their textbook knowledge to life.

Under the open sky, amidst the whispers of nature, students worked collaboratively, sketching and meticulously labelling the various components of the heart, striving for accuracy and precision.

As the activity progressed, it became evident that every group had risen to the occasion, producing diagrams that showcased their dedication and grasp of the subject matter. However, one group's work stood out from the rest Group 1, comprised of Louis-Alexandre Leduc, Lucas Pisani, Max Obolensky and Nicolas Pisani captivated our attention with their exemplary depiction of the heart's anatomy. Their diagram was not only visually striking but also impeccably labelled, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the material.

In recognition of their outstanding effort and achievement, Group 1 was rightfully crowned the winners of the activity. Yet, in truth, all students emerged victorious, having gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the human heart through this immersive outdoor learning experience.

As we reflect on this memorable day, it serves as a reminder that education knows no bounds and that sometimes, the greatest lessons are learned beyond the confines of a classroom!

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Learning Adventures in Biology

By Stephanie Wilkinson

Education is not confined to the pages of textbooks and at St. Edward’s College learning takes on myriad forms, engaging students in dynamic experiences that extend far beyond traditional methods. This term, our Year 9 Biology students delved into the realm of group work and presentations.

Charged with the responsibility of preparing presentations on designed topics, our students found themselves immersed in a world of collaboration and self-discovery. Equipped with instructions and a structured curriculum, they diligently constructed their presentations, guaranteeing comprehensive coverage of all necessary components specified in the syllabus.

This endeavour extended beyond mere academic pursuit. It served as an opportunity for our students to refine a variety of crucial life skills, each one being equally significant. From the daunting task of public speaking to the intricate process of collaboration and planning, our students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and explore new horizons.

Moreover, this experience fostered the development of other crucial skills, such as critical thinking, time management, and adaptability. As they navigated the complexities of their assigned topics, our students learned to think critically, analyse information, and synthesize their findings into coherent presentations.

Despite initial nerves and apprehensions, our students rose to the occasion with confidence.

Each presentation was not just a culmination of knowledge but a testament to the growth and learning that had taken place.

Indeed, the success of this endeavour extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. It is a celebration of collaboration and the enduring spirit of inquiry that defines the St. Edward's College community. As we applaud the achievements of our Year 9 students, we look forward to witnessing the countless ways in which they continue to thrive on their educational journey.

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Founded in 1929, St Edward’s College is an all-boys college for both day and boarding students. Boarding is offered between the ages of 11 to 18. At nursery and kindergarten as well as at post-secondary level, the college is co-educational. As a private educational college, St Edwards offers excellent teaching facilities, high teacher-pupil ratio, a very wide range of sports facilities and scrupulous personal attention to the students.

St Edward’s College Malta Triq San Dwardu Birgu BRG 9039 Citta Vittoriosa

At St Edward’s College, students receive a well—rounded education ending up in the IB Diploma. Most of the students go on to study at world class universities. Our top students are leaders in society ranging from Science and Business to traditional professions and the arts. Most Edwardians retain a love and appreciation of sports throughout their lives.

Phone: +356 27 88 11 99 Editor: Sylvana Debono Email: communications@stedwards.edu.mt

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