News Archives | St. Jeanne Antide College

A Crowd of Problems Malta’s Nature is Facing Due to Overpopulation

Melanie Ungaro — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:00:10 +0000

Overpopulation is the condition where a population exceeds the carrying capacity of its environment. Malta is a small, but densely populated country. At the end of 2024, the total population of Malta was estimated to be around 574,250. This number is still growing to this day, leaving its scars on our nature and its inhabitants.

The Rise of Buildings and The Loss of Nature

Buildings are being built around our country, for many reasons – one of them being the increase in the number of foreigners living in Malta. Because of these problems, housing as well as workplaces must be built so that people can have places to live and work.

But do we ever stop and wonder about where animals live? Or where they end up when green areas are obliterated? The truth is, Malta is being swallowed by high-rise buildings like apartments and offices that are taking away green spaces and stealing the homes of innocent animals. In fact, we can see towering cranes in construction sites scattered around our country, replacing trees and wildlife.

Traffic – An Obstruction to Tranquillity

Traffic is quite a familiar term in Malta, and many people complain about it. Without a doubt, nature complains too. Traffic causes air pollution, which is, in simple words, the process of making the air dirty. It also makes noise pollution, though this cannot be seen, it creates harmful and annoying levels of noise. These two factors can affect both humans and animals in negative ways.

To begin with, air pollution can put animals at a higher risk of diseases, as their immune systems become weak, leading to infections or diseases like asthma and allergies. Air pollution can also cause skin irritation. On the other hand, plants can be damaged in many places, such as their leaves and roots. This ongoing problem can also stunt the plant’s growth.

Traffic also produces noise pollution, which affects wildlife and plants in various ways. Animals use sound to communicate, warn others of danger, and identify their offspring. Therefore, when there is a lot of noise and commotion, they find it hard to do these things. The effects on plants are just as harmful. Due to noise pollution, plants can experience changes in photosynthesis efficiency and even in the uptake of nutrients. Noise pollution can overall stunt a plant’s growth.

It is important to remember that pollution isn’t only caused by traffic, but by many other factors, such as factory emissions, aircrafts and sea vessels.

Beaches and Green Areas – Are They Serving Their Purpose Anymore?

Despite all of these problems, we can still spot places in Malta that aren’t dominated by buildings and pollution. For instance, there are many beaches and nature parks around Malta, some of the most well-known ones include: Għadira Nature Reserve, Buskett Woodlands, Dingli Cliffs, Ramla Beach, and Blue Lagoon, to name a few. They all have their own unique characteristics – but not all of them are completely positive.

Beaches are becoming increasingly overcrowded, leaving no space for nature or animals to thrive. The more people, the more litter and the lower quality of water there is. If we keep on proceeding like this, marine life will be endangered, and some species may risk extinction.

Even green areas are also experiencing overcrowding. Areas that were once viewed as peaceful, nature-abundant spots, are now becoming frequently crowded with a greater number of both local and foreign people. Although tourists are important, their presence can sometimes augment the overcrowding issue.

Overpopulation is a problem many countries face when they are populated in excessively large numbers. Many people share their opinions regarding this in Malta, and while this is important, nature remains silent. This silence must be more recognised by Malta’s citizens, so we can ensure that nature has its say – and ideally someday, has its way.

Rachel Gatt

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The Hidden Waste of Artificial Intelligence

Melanie Ungaro — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:50:48 +0000

Elisa Vassallo’s video The Hidden Waste of Artificial Intelligence highlights the environmental impact of today’s fast-growing AI technologies. Through clear visuals and simple explanations, the video shows how artificial intelligence depends on large data centres that use significant amounts of energy and water, leading to increased carbon emissions and pressure on natural resources.

Supported by data and a strong message, the video encourages viewers to think more carefully about how they use technology in their daily lives. Elisa raises awareness about the importance of using technology in a more responsible and sustainable way, helping people understand the hidden environmental costs behind digital convenience.

The video also links to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), by encouraging more responsible use of resources and actions that help protect the environment.

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PRIMARY Vacancy

Marion Cutajar — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 09:11:47 +0000

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Farewell to The College Bursar on Her Retirement

Marion Cutajar — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:36:14 +0000

After many years of dedicated service, we bid farewell to our College Bursar, Ms Mariella as she retires from her role.

Throughout her tenure, Ms Mariella has overseen the college’s financial operations. Her commitment has ensured the smooth functioning of administrative and financial systems that support both our academic mission and daily school life.

As she embarks on this new chapter of life, we extend our deepest gratitude for her years of commitment and invaluable contributions. We celebrate her achievements and wish her a retirement filled with joy, good health and well-deserved relaxation.

On behalf of the Principal, staff and students, thank you, Ms Mariella, for your service. Your impact will continue to be felt for many years to come.

We wish you every happiness in your retirement.

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Vacancy

Marion Cutajar — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:08:12 +0000

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Thouret School Network logo

Marion Cutajar — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:19:30 +0000

Two curved lines symbolizing the tenderness of the educational style of the SJAT religious family and
introduce us to the globe of the Thouret school network. An interconnected
human and institutional reality that carries from its origin (the letter O of Thouret
is a globe) the desire of the holy foundress to form a great universal community
by overcoming borders, by teaching, by carrying the light of the Gospel (the light
that emanates from the letter O of the word network) and of knowledge (pencil
next to the letter T). The semi-closed globe reminds us that the educational
experience is always open to novelty, to the Other and to each student, regardless
of their country, language or religion. The colour blue, linked to water and oceans, recalls SJAT’s
desire “I would cross the seas, I would go to the end of the world…” if this is the will of God.”

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Vacancy LSE in the Primary

Marion Cutajar — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:56:16 +0000

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Marion Cutajar — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:54:35 +0000

St Nicholas Mass Celebration with Parents and Pupils

We were delighted to gather as a school community to celebrate the feast of St Nicholas during a very special Mass with our pupils, parents and staff. The celebration was filled with joy, reverence and a strong sense of togetherness as we reflected on the life of St Nicholas—the patron saint of children, generosity and compassion.

The pupils took an active role throughout the Mass, participating beautifully in the singing. Their enthusiasm and reverence added something truly special to the liturgy.

Father Martin and P Juan led us in a thoughtful reflection on the kindness and generosity of St Nicholas, encouraging everyone—children and adults alike—to carry his spirit of giving into our daily lives, especially during the Advent season. It was a wonderful opportunity for pupils to see the link between the stories they learn in school and their own call to kindness and service.

Before leaving, each child received a small Baby Jesus as a reminder of the joy that comes from giving and caring for others.

We are grateful to all the parents and families who joined us and helped make the celebration so meaningful. A warm thank-you as well to the staff and pupils for their preparation and participation. It was a beautiful way to honour St Nicholas and begin Advent with hearts full of hope and generosity.

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The Impact of Erasmus+ Training on Outdoor Education: From Sweden to St Joan Antide Primary School Malta

Marion Cutajar — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:21:00 +0000

As part of our ongoing commitment to professional growth and innovative teaching practices, a group of our educators recently participated in an Erasmus+ training programme on Outdoor Education in Sweden. This enriching experience has had a significant impact on both our staff and our pupils, strengthening our school’s vision of envvironment awareness and learning beyond the classroom walls.

Learning from Sweden’s Outdoor Education Culture

Sweden is renowned for its strong tradition of outdoor learning, and the training offered our educators the opportunity to explore new methodologies rooted in hands-on, nature-based experiences. Through workshops, field sessions and collaboration with international colleagues, our teachers gained valuable insights into:

Using natural environments as powerful learning spaces
Encouraging curiosity, independence and problem-solving skills
Integrating sustainability and environmental awareness into everyday learning
Promoting student wellbeing through time spent outdoors

Bringing New Skills Back to Malta

Upon returning to school, our educators immediately began applying their newly acquired knowledge and practices. Lessons have become more interactive, exploratory and rooted in real-world experiences. Pupils are benefiting from:

Outdoor learning activities that link directly with the curriculum
Increased opportunities for teamwork and creativity
A deeper appreciation of nature and sustainable living
Enhanced engagement and motivation through active learning

These changes are already making a positive difference, with students demonstrating greater enthusiasm, improved focus and stronger connections to their learning.

A Lasting Impact on Our School Community

The Erasmus+ experience has not only strengthened our educators’ professional skills but has also broadened our school’s approach to teaching and learning. By embracing outdoor education, we are nurturing confident, curious and environmentally conscious learners.

We are grateful for the opportunities provided by Erasmus+, which continue to enrich our school community and inspire us to innovate for the benefit of all our pupils.

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St Joan Antide Primary School Gudja Awarded the eTwinning National and European Quality Label

Marion Cutajar — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:35:11 +0000

We are delighted to announce that our school has been awarded both the eTwinning National Quality Label and the prestigious European Quality Label for our outstanding work on the project The Not So Bad Animals.

These recognitions are granted to schools that demonstrate excellence in collaborative digital projects, innovative teaching practices and meaningful international cooperation. Receiving both labels is a testament to the hard work, creativity and dedication of our students and educators.

Through this eTwinning project, our students had the opportunity to engage with peers across Europe, develop digital skills, explore new perspectives and contribute to a shared learning journey. The project showcased high-quality planning, strong collaboration and impactful outcomes — all of which were recognised at national and European levels.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the project coordinator Ms Marion Cutajar, participating teachers and students whose enthusiasm and commitment made this achievement possible.

This double recognition places our school among the leading eTwinning institutions and encourages us to continue fostering innovation, international collaboration and excellence in education.

Well done to all involved!

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