Understanding the Education System in Malta
As an expat family moving to Malta, it is important to understand the education system, which is divided into public, church, and private schools, including international schools catering to foreign students. The Malta Ministry for Education accredits all of these, ensuring country-wide standardized education.
Education is compulsory for children aged 5-16 under the Education Law. The education process consists of:
- Kindergarten (3-4 years)
- Primary education (5-10 years)
- Secondary education (11-16 years)
The academic year typically starts towards the end of September, with summer holidays beginning around end of June. Children also enjoy breaks during public holidays and designated vacation periods in November, December-January, February-March, and April.
Understanding Public Schools in Malta: Structure, Curriculum, and Opportunities
Public schools in Malta provide free education for Maltese citizens, residents, EU and EEA citizens. If you do not fall under these categories, your children can still attend school for free if at least one parent holds a Maltese work permit. Textbooks, supplies, and transportation are provided free of charge, but parents must provide uniforms and stationery.
Public education involves:
- Early childhood education (kindergarten for ages 3-4 – non-compulsory)
- Primary education (5-10 years - compulsory)
- Lower secondary education (11-16 years - compulsory)
- Upper secondary education (16-18 years – non-compulsory)
- Vocational education is also available for young adults aged 16-20, offering courses aimed at teaching a trade or developing personal skills.
As a bilingual nation, Malta uses both English and Maltese in classrooms, aiding integration. While both languages are used, schools may lean towards one. Public schools mainly use Maltese, except during English language classes.
If you intend to enrol your child in a Maltese public school, it is necessary to reach out to the local council in the area to confirm the school's capacity and to register your child. This is because school placements are typically region-based, aligned with the family's area of residence.
For a comprehensive list of all the schools in Malta check out this list.
Exploring the Private Education Landscape in Malta
Malta's private education landscape features well-regarded private schools, such as:
- Verdala International School
- San Anton School
- St Edwards College
- St. Catherines's High School
- St. Michael's Foundation
- San Anton School
- Chiswick House School
These schools have varied fee structures, curricula, and teaching methodologies, but they must meet government standards and are subject to mandatory accreditation by the Ministry for Education. Students graduate with state certificates.
A year of study at a private or international school will cost an average of approximately €6,000 to €10,000. They also teach mostly in English, with the exception of Maltese lessons, and students casually use both languages.
An Overview of Maltese Tertiary Education
Top tertiary education institutions include:
- The University of Malta
- Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology
- Institute of Tourism Studies
- American University of Malta
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In conclusion, whether you opt for public, private, or international schooling, the Maltese education system offers robust educational opportunities for your children. However, it is crucial to consider factors like the language of instruction, curriculum, location, and fees before making a decision. As an expat, familiarizing yourself with the local education system will ensure a smoother transition for your family into Maltese society.
If you would like to receive more information on the enrollment and processes, please provide us with your contact details and one of our team members shall be in contact with you promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions for Families Relocating to Malta with Children
1. What are the primary educational options available to students in Malta?
Malta provides three categories of educational institutions: public (state-funded), church (partially financed by the government), and private (including international schools). A variety of curricula, teaching methods, and languages of instruction are used to accommodate the unique preferences and requirements of each type.
2. What is the minimum age for children to begin attending education in Malta?
Starting kindergarten at the age of three is permissible; however, compulsory education commences at the age of five with primary school.
3. Is childcare provided at no cost in Malta?
Indeed, free childcare services are accessible to children between the ages of zero and three, provided that both parents are employed or enrolled in an educational institution. In order to utilise these services, parents are required to register with the government.
4. Which languages are taught in Maltese schools?
The official languages of instruction in institutions are Maltese and English. Maltese is the primary language used in public institutions, while English is the primary language used in private and international schools.
5. Are there support services available for minors who are illiterate in Maltese or English?
Indeed, language support programs and induction courses are provided to facilitate the integration of non-native speakers into the educational system.
6. What is the structure of the educational calendar in Malta?
The academic year spans from late September to June, with intermittent vacations for midterm holidays, Easter, and Christmas. The summer vacation period typically extends from late June to mid-September.
7. What is the process for enrolling my child in a Maltese school?
Enrolment in public institutions is conducted through your local council, which is determined by your residential address. To apply to private and international institutions, you must submit your application directly to the institution.
8. Are school conveyance services accessible?
For students who live a certain distance from their assigned school, public schools do indeed offer free transport. Private institutions may provide transport at an additional cost.
9. Are meals provided by institutions in Malta?
Meals are not typically provided by public schools, necessitating that parents prepare lunches for their children. Cafeteria services may be available at certain private and international institutions.
10. What’s the cost of textbooks and school transport
Textbooks and transportation are provided at no cost to Maltese citizens and residents who attend public institutions.
11. Are there any extracurricular activities that are available for children?
Indeed, the majority of institutions in Malta provide extracurricular activities, including music, art, drama, and sports. Additionally, there are numerous private societies and organisations that provide after-school activities.
12. Is it possible for children to resume their education in Malta after they have already begun their education in another country?
Indeed, it is crucial to engage in dialogue with the school to ascertain the extent to which your child's prior education is consistent with Malta's curriculum. Certain international institutions may adhere to systems that are comparable to those of your country of origin.
13. Are there educational institutions that are designed to accommodate expatriate families?
Expat families frequently select international institutions such as Verdala International School and QSI Malta. These institutions provide international curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the British and American systems.
14. What is the process for obtaining healthcare for my children in Malta?
Malta's inhabitants are entitled to complimentary public healthcare services. Private healthcare is also accessible and frequently utilised by expatriate families. Schools typically have protocols in place to address minor injuries or ailments.
15. Are there alternatives for children with special educational needs?
Indeed, Malta offers specialised staff and customised learning plans in both public and private schools, as well as dedicated support services and resources for children with special educational requirements.
16. What is the safety of Malta for rearing children?
Malta is regarded as one of the most secure countries in Europe due to its family-friendly environment and minimal crime rate. Families with children are warmly welcomed and encouraged by the local community.
17. What are some enjoyable pursuits for children in Malta?
Malta provides an abundance of family-friendly attractions, such as historical locations, museums, parks, and beaches. Visiting the Popeye Village, exploring the Malta National Aquarium, and taking boat trips to neighbouring islands are among the most popular activities.
18. Does my family require a visa or residency permit to live in Malta?
A visa is not required for EU/EEA citizens; however, they are required to register for residency. A visa and residency permit are typically required for non-EU citizens, and they may be contingent upon their employment or other qualifications.
19. What kinds of childcare is available in Malta for young children?
Kids from birth up to 2 years and 9 months old can go to child care services in Malta. These services follow national guidelines, which makes sure that patients get good care and have chances to grow and learn early on.
20. Are there language classes for people who don't speak English or Maltese as their first language?
Yes, Malta does offer language induction classes to help kids who don't speak English or Maltese as their first language fit in with their classmates and the school system.
21. What are college networks, and how do they work?
In Malta, public schools are set up into College Networks. Each network is made up of several elementary and middle schools that are supervised by a College Principal to make sure that the schools' teaching and management are coordinated.
22. How is Malta's system for running schools organised?
Two main groups are in charge of Malta's school system:
- The Directorate for Quality and Standards in Education (DQSE), which is in charge of making sure that standards in education are met.
– The Directorate for Educational Services (DES), which helps schools and students by offering support services.
23. How does Malta make sure that kids go to school?
Malta has ways to keep track of who is going to school. Parents are required by law to send their kids to school, and attendance records are checked often to make sure parents are following the law.
24. Can kids in Malta be taught at home?
In Malta, you can teach your kids, but the government has rules about it. To teach their children at home, parents must meet certain standards and follow certain rules.
25. What kind of adult education is available in Malta?
Malta has many adult education and continuing education programs that can help people improve their personal growth, learn new skills, or get new qualifications.
26. Are there funds for students in Malta to help pay their bills?
Malta gives maintenance grants to full-time students in upper secondary schools and colleges to help pay for their studies.
27. What do Education Officers in Malta do?
As part of their inspection duties, Education Officers keep an eye on and evaluate teaching methods, test students' progress, and help teachers and school management teams.
28. How are Malta's kindergarten groups set up?
Each age group is put into its own kindergarten class in Malta:
— Kindergarten 1 for kids 3 years old.
– Kindergarten 2 for kids aged 4 years.
These groups make sure that early childhood education is geared towards the stages of growth that young children are in.
Need help making your mind up about the best way forward? Contact use here https://www.dzmalta.com/contact-us and one of our local team members will be in contact with you promptly to share their local knowledge.
