There is something quietly powerful about a school that has stood the test of time. This year, Chiswick House School and St Martin’s College (CHSMC) marks 120 years of education in Malta, a milestone that speaks not only of longevity, but of relevance, resilience, and a deep-rooted sense of purpose.

For generations, families have walked through its doors, each cohort leaving its mark while becoming part of something larger. That sense of continuity still defines the school today. Former students return as parents, teachers remain for decades, and traditions are carried forward in ways that feel both familiar and fresh.

Reaching 120 years is no small achievement. Yet, for the school, the anniversary is not simply about looking back. It is an opportunity to reflect on what has shaped its identity while continuing to look ahead with intent.

At its core, CHSMC has always been guided by a commitment to academic ambition, student well-being, and the belief that every learner matters. While classrooms and methods have evolved, this focus on the individual has remained constant. Today, it is reflected in a broad educational approach built around the 8Cs (Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Commitment, Compassion, Confidence, Critical Thinking, & Contribution), encouraging students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and develop into well-rounded individuals.

Of course, no school reaches 120 years by standing still. Over time, CHSMC has adapted to meet the changing needs of education and society.

From introducing the Maths Mastery approach as a pioneering model school in Malta, to significant and sustained investment in continuous professional development for staff, and a growing focus on Artificial Intelligence in Education supported through dedicated staff training and learner support, the school continues to embrace innovation in meaningful ways.

CHSMC is also the only school in Malta accredited by the National Association for Able Children in Education (NACE), reflecting its commitment to challenging and supporting every learner to reach their full potential.

Creativity also remains deeply embedded within the school’s teaching and learning philosophy through approaches such as Creative Cogs, which encourage curiosity, imagination, exploration, and creative problem-solving from the early years onwards.

There is also a strong emphasis on wellbeing, supported by a whole-school Social and Emotional Learning programme that helps students build confidence, resilience, and self-awareness.

Walk through the school on any given day, and you will see this balance in action. A lesson may involve structured academic learning, but just as easily shift into discussion, creativity, or problem-solving. Beyond the classroom, students take part in activities that broaden their perspective, from outdoor learning to international experiences. It is this blend of rigour and exploration that continues to define the CHSMC experience.

One of the most tangible expressions of the school’s 120-year journey is a new initiative known as The Living Room. Recently launched at St Martin’s College, the space brings together photographs, artefacts, and stories that trace the school’s history. But it is not intended to be a static display. Students visit regularly, leaf through archives, and even leave messages for future generations in a guest book. In this way, the space continues to grow, shaped by those who pass through it.

The anniversary year itself is being marked with a series of events designed to bring the community together. A Level 5 concert, a production of Oliver! Jr., the May Fair, a Sports and Wellness Marketplace, and an alumni reunion in the summer months are just some of the highlights. Each event offers a different way for students, parents, staff, and former pupils to reconnect and celebrate a shared history.

Alongside these celebrations, the school has also introduced a refreshed brand identity. Bringing together Chiswick House School and St Martin’s College under a unified visual presence, the rebrand reflects both heritage and direction. It is a subtle but important step in reinforcing the idea of one school community, built on long-standing values but focused firmly on the future.

And that is perhaps what stands out most at this 120-year mark. There is pride in what has been achieved, certainly, but also a clear sense that the story is still being written. The focus remains on developing confident, capable young people, ready to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

For CHSMC, the past is not something to be preserved at a distance. It is something to learn from, build on, and carry forward.

To learn more about Chiswick House School and St Martin’s College and its 120th anniversary celebrations, visit https://chs.edu.mt/.