Job Shadowing in Malta: a real experience for adult learners

The senior participants from Viterbo (Italy)

At Lexema, we believe that mobility is not limited to students.

Through KA1 adult education projects, professionals and adult learners have the opportunity to explore new systems, exchange practices, and gain insights that can be directly applied in their daily work.

Last week, we hosted a group of senior participants from Civita Castellana (Viterbo), representing the Maria Montessori Cooperative, for a Job Shadowing experience in Malta.

The programme focused on social care, training, and community services, combining structured visits, cultural exposure, and professional learning.

A structured learning experience From the very beginning, the programme was designed to offer a balanced and meaningful experience, where each visit had a clear educational purpose. After arrival and orientation, participants began a series of on-site visits to local organisations, allowing them to observe how different services operate in the Maltese context.

Among the organisations visited:

• leading care facilities supporting elderly people

• organisations active in emergency response and community services

• hospitality and care-oriented environments

• training and professional development centres

• community-based organisations focused on social support

Each visit gave participants the opportunity to observe professionals at work, understand operational models, and reflect on differences and similarities with their own countries.

Each visit gave participants the opportunity to observe professionals at work, understand operational models, and reflect on differences and similarities with their own countries.

Learning through observation and exchange

Job shadowing is not about passive observation — it is about active learning through real environments. Throughout the week, participants engaged with professionals, asked questions, and exchanged ideas, gaining a deeper understanding of:

• Care systems and support structures

• Training methodologies

• Organisational approaches in social services

The role of Lexema

In addition to coordinating the programme and logistics, Lexema ensured that each activity was part of a coherent learning journey. The visit to the Lexema office also provided participants with insight into:

The group visiting the Lexema office in St Julian's.

• ⁠how Erasmus+ mobility projects are designed and managed

• ⁠⁠how local networks are built and maintained

• how international cooperation is translated into real opportunities.

For many, this represents an opportunity to rethink their work, improve their organisations, and contribute to innovation in their local context.

This Job Shadowing experience shows how Erasmus+ can offer meaningful and structured opportunities also for adult learners. By combining professional visits, cultural exchange, and continuous learning, mobility becomes a tool for real impact — both at an individual and organisational level.

Interested in developing Erasmus+ mobility projects for adult learners?

Would you like to offer your participants a structured experience like this?

Let’s connect and explore how we can design a tailored programme based on your needs.