Skola Sajf : an evaluation

Abstract

This study was based upon a three year research to provide a general view about the aims of Skola Sajf, if and how they were attained, and how Skola Sajf can be ameliorated in the coming years. Research was also carried out on the Internet in order to obtain information about summer schools within the international dimension; opening up new visions of this experience in America and in Europe. More extensive research was carried out in order to see how this summer educational programme was initially implemented throughout the summer of 1975 and 1976 in the Maltese Islands. These summer youth clubs boasted of a great success and gave the opportunity to children to learn through leisure activities. Unfortunately, the programme was not re- introduced in the following years mainly due to financial reasons. Evaluating the feedback obtained from the research carried out over three years, we could easily deduct that Skola Sajf has been a huge success story. Children and parents remarked mostly that they attended or sent their children to Skola Sajf to meet their friends and to take part in sports and leisure activities. Children consider Skola Sajf a truly gratifying and pleasurable experience where they can try out new things, experiment with arts and craft, and share special and unforgettable moments with their friends. We augur that this study will guide educators to promote leisure education throughout the whole year, in order to make learning for children a unique, lifelong experience.