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3 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 19 OCTOBER 2025 EDUCATION Esplora: Where curiosity comes alive Esplora's 2025–2026 Education Programme brings science and creativity together for all ages CURIOSITY is at the heart of learning — and at Esplora Inter- active Science Centre, it's what turns science into an adventure. With its newly launched Educa- tion Programme for 2025–2026, Esplora invites students, educa- tors, and families to explore a world where creativity, imagina- tion, and innovation meet. From hands-on workshops and creative storytelling to interac- tive science shows and planetar- ium experiences, this year's pro- gramme proves that science can be both accessible and inspiring for everyone. Learning through experience The new programme builds on Esplora's mission to make STEAM education — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics — engaging and relevant. Designed for learners from Kinder 1 to Year 11, each expe- rience encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and learn by doing. Younger participants will enjoy playful sessions such as Play it Loud and Minibeasts, while older students can dive deeper into topics like energy, water conservation, ro- botics, and aerospace through workshops like Qatra Qatra, Ar- ti-Coding, and AstroMaterials Lab. Each activity connects scientif- ic ideas to everyday life, sparking both curiosity and confidence. A universe waiting to be ex- plored At the heart of Esplora's prem- ises lies its Planetarium, which this year enhances it's Live Expe- riences — presenter-led shows that allow audiences to journey through the cosmos in real time. Students can travel to the moon in Chasing the Moon, witness alien worlds in Worlds Beyond, and uncover the secrets of stars in Colours of the Cos- mos. Alongside these interactive shows, a new collection of Plane- tarium films explores everything from dark matter to the history of flight, turning the wonders of space into a truly immersive ex- perience. Festive science and creative coding In December, Esplora trans- forms into Santa's STEAM Fac- tory, a seasonal highlight that combines festive magic with sci- entific exploration. Visitors can explore the science behind Santa Clause in our new interactive show Santa's Secrets Revealed, get artistic by design- ing their own wrapping paper using coding, and even guide robots to help Santa deliver pre- sents on time. It's a joyful way to show that learning and celebration can go hand in hand. Science as a challenge For older students, the STEAM Unlocked Escape Game Work- shops provide a new kind of learning experience — fast- paced, puzzle-based sessions where science meets teamwork. Themes such as Artificial In- telligence, Pharmacy, Cyberse- curity, and Chemistry challenge participants to think strategical- ly, solve problems, and commu- nicate effectively. Each game transforms knowl- edge into an active, real-world adventure. Curiosity for a lifetime In January 2026, Esplora's flag- ship event KurżitàJiem returns — a week-long festival that cele- brates curiosity and creativity in education and careers. Schools and families will meet professionals from fields as var- ied as medicine, art, and engi- neering, gaining a hands-on look at how STEAM shapes the fu- ture of Malta's industries. Empowering educators Esplora continues to support teachers through professional development workshops, in- cluding Creative Storytelling for Educators and Emotional Intelli- gence in the Classroom. These sessions help educators bring innovation and empathy into their teaching, ensuring that curiosity remains a lifelong habit for students. A hub of inspiration From the thrill of discovery to the joy of creative expression, Esplora's 2025–2026 Education Programme shows that learn- ing doesn't just happen in class- rooms — it happens wherever curiosity takes flight. This year's line-up is not just about science; it's about imag- ination, collaboration, and the confidence to explore the un- known. Contact Esplora for more in- formation: e d u c a t i o n @ e s p l o r a . o r g . m t | www.esplora.org.mt | 2360 2300 SCAN TO SEE FULL BOOKLET