The Achieve programme continues to go from strength to strength in Malta where there is a 100% pass rate for all students who have entered our qualification. The impact of Achieve has been so powerful, since it was first piloted in 2015, that it is now being implemented by independent schools as well as the Catholic Education Secretariat and the programme is now also a recognised qualification for entry to vocational schools in Malta.

The number of participating schools has increased from 7 at launch to over 30 sites (schools and centres) and to date, a total of 320 students from 19 schools and education centres have benefitted from the programme.

Last year, Nicolas*, 15, was placed onto the Prince’s Trust International Achieve programme as he was always getting into trouble at school. Below he shares his experience of the programme.

“It was the first time that I could do hands on activities as part of a programme and in which I was not penalized for spelling mistakes. I feel the Achieve programme has helped me a lot, on how to think before I act, on how to use self-discipline and on the targets I want to achieve in life.  It is fun, yet I am learning a lot.  I have found my passion for Art and in fact put up my own exhibition – an opportunity which left a great impact on me.”

“I highly recommend young people to embark on the Achieve programme because it is a shift from just writing and just staying in class to more practical, hands-on activities, in which you have the opportunity to discover yourself, your talents and to help others.  It is a different pathway from the academic one, but which leads to self-fulfilment and to lifelong learning.”

Nicolas* would now like to continue with his studies after year 11 and enrol on a vocational course.

“I have the first taste of success with Achieve programme – I do not intend to give that up now.”

* Name has been changed