Enrichment Activities
GCHSS offers a comprehensive education that extends beyond the traditional academic subjects. A wide range of enrichment activities provides students opportunities to enhance their overall educational experience. Some of these activities, besides being recreational, are also accredited at MQF Level 3. This enables students to develop valuable skills and gain recognised qualifications beyond the classroom.
A list of enrichment activities for the upcoming scholastic year will be issued at the beginning of the year. The following are some of the enrichment opportunities recently offered by the school.
The photography programme is divided into two stand-alone accredited modules.
- Non-Formal Award in Photography
In this module, students acquire key competencies in photography, including the ability to capture high-quality images using different focusing techniques, depth of field, shutter speeds, and lighting conditions. Students also develop skills in identifying the essential characteristics of quality photographs, maintaining an organised portfolio, selecting the most suitable lens for different types of shots, and planning, designing, and executing photographic exhibitions. - Non-Formal Award in Advanced Photography and Photo Editing
This module explores specialised areas such as nature and portrait photography, studio techniques and equipment, and advanced photo editing. Learners who demonstrate enthusiasm and talent are encouraged to pursue further educational opportunities in photography and related fields at higher education institutions.
The Award in Youth Leadership programme is designed to support young people in developing their leadership potential. Delivered in collaboration with Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, the programme offers participants the opportunity to explore the meaning of leadership and different leadership styles, strengthen their communication skills, and understand the importance of strategic planning and active citizenship.
The programme is delivered through interactive sessions that include a range of practical activities and group discussions, creating an engaging learning experience. Through its structured curriculum, participants are equipped with valuable knowledge and skills that enhance their leadership abilities and encourage active participation within their communities and society at large.
The JA Malta Foundation programme provides students with hands-on experience that bridges the gap between business theory and practice. Through this programme, students learn how to develop business ideas from concept to reality while gaining firsthand insight into how a company operates. Participants in the programme elect a board of directors from among their peers, raise share capital, and market and finance a product or service of their own choice.
The European Parliament Euroscola Programme brings together students aged 16 to 18 from all EU Member States to experience the role of a Member of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. During the programme, students participate in debates, vote on key issues, and gain firsthand insight into the work of the European Parliament.
Last year, twenty-four students were selected following a school-based selection process, which included both multiple choice and open-ended questions. Travel and accommodation arrangements for Strasbourg are organised by the school.
The Philosophy Club offers students the opportunity to engage in collective inquiry through thought-provoking discussions and debates. Students participate in discussions on philosophical ideas, prepare presentations, and relate their learning to current events and contemporary issues.
The club promotes open-mindedness and critical thinking, encouraging students to challenge ideas, broaden their perspectives, and develop strong communication and analytical skills. Students are invited to join the Philosophy Club and become part of a community passionate about the shared pursuit of knowledge and understanding through meaningful dialogue.
The Spanish-Speaking Club is open to students interested in the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. Meeting once a week, the club explores various aspects of the Spanish language and the diverse cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. The Department of Spanish organises activities such as film and video clip viewings, language games, food tasting, arts and crafts workshops, music and dance appreciation, and encounters with native Spanish speakers living or working in Malta.
The club aims to create an immersive environment in which students and educators of all proficiency levels can engage with the Spanish language while sharing cultural knowledge and experiences. Club Hispanohablante sincerely appreciates the support of the Embassy of Spain in Malta for kindly providing resources for the club.
The Department of German has successfully organised the German Club for the past five years, offering students opportunities to engage in activities beyond the traditional classroom experience. As a proud member of the PASCH initiative, the club also plays an important role in preparing students for the annual project Talk ohne Grenzen. This project brings together students from across Europe to collaborate and present a talk show in Berlin.
Students at GCHSS are invited to join the German Club, where language learning is made both dynamic and enjoyable through meaningful cultural exchange, collaboration, and creative participation.
The GCHSS Chaplaincy welcomes students into a supportive environment that nurtures both their personal and spiritual growth. In addition to meeting the spiritual needs of the school community, it organises monthly extracurricular activities and meetings. It also provides a Youth Hub where students can relax between lessons in an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Equipped with facilities such as air hockey, billiards, and table soccer, this Youth Hub also offers opportunities for recreation and social interaction.
The Chaplaincy plays an active role in organising school events and cultural outings, while promoting ways of living the teachings of Jesus and the Christian faith in a positive and youthful manner.
Through its activities, students are encouraged to strengthen their relationships with one another and with God, while gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, their abilities, and their personal vocation in life.
The horticulture field was established by the Biology Department, with the support of the ancillary staff, to provide Biology students with the resources required for their coursework. Over time, it has developed into a living laboratory where students and staff members, who share a passion for nature and agriculture can meet, learn about plant biology, and participate in the growing and harvesting of a variety of crops.
Through these activities, students not only develop practical skills in horticulture, gardening, and landscaping, but also strengthen important lifelong skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and a sense of ownership. Students interested in gardening and horticulture are to contact the Department of Biology for further information.
The European Parliament Ambassador School Programme aims to raise students’ awareness of European parliamentary democracy, the role of the European Parliament, and core European values. The programme encourages students from diverse backgrounds to actively engage in democratic processes at the EU level.
At the end of each scholastic year, the activities carried out by participating schools are evaluated. Upon successful completion of the programme, students receive official certificates during a ceremony organised by the European Parliament Liaison Office in Malta. This event is often attended by Members of the European Parliament and other stakeholders. Participating students may also be offered the opportunity to take part in Euroscola and other activities organised by the European Parliament.
The Model European Parliament Programme provides a unique opportunity for young people aged 16 to 19 from post-secondary institutions across Malta and Gozo to actively participate in a simulation of the European Parliament.
During the sessions, run by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, participants learn about parliamentary procedures and engage in stimulating debates that help them develop important skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork.
