The Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Art and Crafts was recently accepted to participate in a project under the Lifelong Learning Programme 2007-2013 of the Leonardo da Vinci, Multilateral Transfer of Innovation project. The project, entitled “Blended Learning Environmental Studies” (BLES), focuses on the development and testing of new biodegradable materials.

The programme will be spread over two years and should be finalised by the end of September 2009. The school in Gozo has been allocated around e10,000. It will be joining other participants from Germany, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Bulgaria and Poland.

The Leonardo da Vinci programme focuses on the teaching and learning needs of those involved in vocational education and training while supporting experiences between teachers, trainers and human resources managers.

The Wistin Camilleri Gozo Centre for Arts and Crafts qualified for participation in this project through its proposal of a biodegradable packaging material made from shredded newspapers and popcorn. This could be used instead of the usual packaging materials made from expandable chemical foam, which as opposed to that proposed by the Gozitan school, cannot be naturally absorbed. This proposal was submitted through a German agency with which the Gozitan school has been in contact after a cultural exchange visit to Klausenhof four years ago.

Joe Attard, head of school, together with Jeffrey Mizzi, a student, recently attended a meeting between participating countries during which details regarding work packages and targets were established. Among others it was decided that later this year, Gozo will host a conference on the subject. Participating countries will be financing this event, which will provide Gozitan students and artisans who make use of this centre with an ideal opportunity to widen their perspectives and share their work experiences with counterparts from other European countries.

Through the BLES project, Gozitan students attending art and craft courses will also become aware of new techniques and other information regarding better use of materials and eco-friendly systems in the manufacture of their artefacts. Their knowledge can then be shared with that of other students from the participating countries, making it also an experience through which potential new ideas may emerge.