Primary, secondary education in Malta for international students

The education system in Maltese schools is strictly regulated by the state, so all educational institutions on the island undergo and receive accreditation from the Ministry of Education. As a result, secondary school diplomas in Malta are valued not only on the island, but also in other countries of the European Union.

Schools in Malta are broadly categorized into three types: public, church, and independent, each with its unique features:

1. Public Schools: Accessible to both local and foreign students, these schools are located in major cities and villages across Malta. Transportation to and from school is free, as are necessary school materials. However, parents must independently purchase uniforms and stationery.

2. Church Schools: Affiliated with the Catholic Church, these schools do not charge tuition fees due to an agreement with the government. However, parents are expected to make annual donations to cover certain expenses. School supplies and uniforms are also paid for by parents.

3. Independent Schools: Offering education from preschool to the end of secondary school, these include international schools that cater to foreign students. Parents are responsible for tuition fees, school supplies, uniforms, and transportation costs.

Specialized Schools in Malta

There are also specialized schools in Malta, including four resource centers for children with special needs. These centers are equipped with specialist teachers, facilities, and resources to aid children with learning difficulties, integrating them into mainstream education.

• Bilingual Education: Malta is a bilingual country, with both English and Maltese spoken in classrooms and playgrounds. Italian is also widely spoken. In public schools, Maltese is the primary language of instruction, except for English lessons. Private schools generally conduct lessons in English.

• Educational Quality: Malta’s education system is highly regarded. International schools offer a variety of curricula, with a focus on the British educational program. Students study a broad range of subjects and undergo interim and final exams.

• Academic Calendar: The school year runs from September to June, with a three-month summer break, approximately two-week-long Christmas and Easter holidays, and a few days of mid-term breaks. Additionally, there are numerous public and religious holidays throughout the year.

• Independent Schools Examples:

  • Casa Maria Montessori: Offers a Montessori environment for holistic child development. Teachers are specially trained to cater to each child's needs, promoting self-development and a range of social, physical, intellectual, and emotional skills.
  • Chiswick House School: Adheres to principles of ambition, fairness, humility, and unity. It boasts an ambitious curriculum designed by subject experts, ensuring an equitable educational experience for every student.

• Church Schools Examples:

  • Bishops Conservatory School: Takes pride in being a practicing Catholic school, fostering inclusivity regardless of origin, abilities, race, or religion.
  • St Jeanne Antide School: Comprises primary and secondary levels, with primary students guaranteed a place in the secondary school. Admissions are conducted through a voting system organized by the Archdiocese of Malta.

• Public Schools Examples:

  • Maria Regina College: Includes separate middle schools for boys, girls, and a resource center for youth education. The college focuses on creativity, innovation, and professionalism, encouraging continual self-assessment among students.