Week 6: Sunburn and shorts!

Our visitors picked the correct week to come and visit us as the weather continued to not disappoint reaching over 20 degrees, whilst at home I had been told it was snowing. Having been roasted and burnt on our walking tour of Valletta I made a mental note to wear more summery clothing and apply sun cream on our trip to Gozo, especially as we had decided we would rent out bikes and cycle around the island, an activity I would definitely recommend to others and would even consider doing again! Having already been to Gozo before I thought I would be seeing a lot of the same things as last time however by cycling across the island my eyes where opened up to much more as I was going at a much slower pace allowing me to take in and embrace the views more clearly whilst also not being blocked by bus windows! Even places that I had been before like The Azure Window didn’t cease to amaze me in their natural beauty. An Asian proverb is correct in saying “Better to see something once than hear about it 1000 times.” Having heard lots of positive stories about how great Malta was and researching the place myself and seeing photos it’s not until I actually see it with my own set of eyes that I can truly appreciate its natural beauty.

Ready Steady Go!

Appreciating the rare sight of green fields

Pit-stop for lunch

Breath-taking views

Deciding to walk down this hill to the Azure Window was
 a great idea so we didn't have to push our bikes back up!

Wow!

We made it!

On Friday night we attended a cultural night at a local restaurant. Having read descriptions of a 4 course meal accompanied by traditional music played by a mandolin and guitar followed by dancers telling the history of Malta. The four of us thought we would give it a go as it only cost €25. I am so glad we did as we all really enjoyed our night and had a delicious meal where we got to try typical Maltese dishes including bruschetta, water bread, rabbit and fish all washed down with some locally produced wine.

Our menu for the evening

Rachel being entertained by the traditional music

Food glorious food!

Traditional dancers

Having finally been able to get our placement sorted out Rachel and myself have been placed in a school along with 2 other Erasmus students. We have a meeting tomorrow morning to meet the principal and get an introduction to the school. I am really looking forward to this especially as I think of fellow classmates who are currently on placement at home. From previous experience I find that placement is a valuable part of our course where you are able to put into practice all that you have been taught throughout the year and where you learn things you can’t be taught as Phil Collins (2008) states “In learning you will teach and in teaching you will learn.” I know that I will never be bored as a teacher as I know that throughout my career I will take on many roles, get to know and treasure lots of children coming from many different backgrounds and situations which will require time and dedication as I use my creativity to seek to meet each individual.