We have reached the final stretch of the year—the closing weeks of 2025. Some of you are still finding your rhythm in Malta after recently arriving, while others are now settled and beginning to see this island as a home away from home. Wherever you are, this moment invites us to pause, take stock of the months behind us, and prepare for the new chapter that 2026 will bring.

December naturally ushers in a festive atmosphere defined by family gatherings, abundant food, chocolates, and the excitement of gift-giving. Regardless of the faith you follow, the season carries an unmistakable sense of warmth, laughter, and connection. As staff, this is also a time to recognise the courage each of you demonstrated when choosing to leave your loved ones and step into a new academic and personal journey with us here at Ascencia. We commend your resilience, and we appreciate the trust you continue to place in us as partners in your growth. Even when perspectives differ, our intention remains unwavering: to provide the guidance, support, and safe space you deserve.

Beyond our school community, the festive spirit is palpable across Malta. Village streets and the capital city come alive with lights—transforming the island into something that feels remarkably close to the North Pole . As a predominantly Catholic nation, December is closely tied to the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, and Malta’s churches prepare diligently for this season. You may wish to visit the live crib in the town of Għajnsielem on the island of Gozo—now a staple attraction during the holidays .

1. Roast Meats Lunches

Families often anchor the meal with roast turkey, pork, or sometimes rabbit. These are usually positioned as the centrepiece, supported by rich gravies and winter vegetables.

2. Imbuljuta tal-Qastan

A classic Maltese chestnut-and-cocoa drink served hot after Midnight Mass. It’s thick, comforting, and treated almost as a “signature warm-down beverage” for the season.

3. Qagħqa tal-Għasel

A treacle ring pastry with spiced, dark honey-like filling. It’s a heritage dessert that tends to be deployed early in December and remains in rotation through the holidays.

4. Timpana

A hearty baked macaroni pie—crowd-pleasing, uplifting, and often central to large family gatherings.

5. Pudina tal-Ħobż
(Bread Pudding)

A resourceful dessert combining stale bread, cocoa, spices, and citrus zest. It’s seen as a sustainability-driven classic—zero waste before it was trendy.

6. Christmas Log
(Maltese Style)

A no-bake chocolate-biscuit log with almonds or cherries. This is an import-turned-local staple, and it often plays the role of a flexible dessert you can showcase in any setting.

As we wrap up the year, we also celebrate the achievements of several students who are completing their academic journey with us. It’s time for us to say goodbye — and a warm “see you soon” — to Sofia, Abiude and Sergio.

Sofia, who joined us from Thailand over a year and a half ago, has been a constant source of positivity. Her friendly smile and gentle nature brightened everyone’s day. Through steady hard work and real dedication, she successfully completed the Undergraduate Certificate in Business English. We’re incredibly proud of how far she’s come and excited to see what she accomplishes next .

Abiude and Sergio, who travelled from Angola, set out to improve their English in just three months — and they absolutely rose to the challenge.

• Abiude’s laugh could fill a room, and her energy brought so much life to her classes and to the whole team .