For expats relocating to Malta with children, understanding the state schools and services in Malta is essential. Malta provides educational services from early childhood through secondary and post-secondary education, with options in both public and private sectors.
The system includes kindergarten, primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, ensuring a comprehensive educational pathway for students.
Overview of Schools and Services in Malta:
State schools in Malta and Gozo provide free education to Maltese citizens and EU residents.
However, Third Country Nationals (TCNs) may be required to pay school fees unless they hold a work or residence permit, in which case they can apply for an exemption.
Malta’s education system follows this structure:
Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC)
- Ages: 0-3 years
- Services: Nursery and childcare centres
- Focus: Social, emotional, and cognitive development
Kindergarten
- Ages: 3-5 years
- Focus: Play-based learning with basic literacy and numeracy
Primary Education
- Ages: 5-11 years (Years 1-6)
- Subjects: Maltese, English, Mathematics, Religion, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Arts, and ICT
- Focus: Building foundational knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Secondary Education
- Ages: 11-16 years (Forms 1-5)
- Structure: Junior Lyceums and Area Secondary Schools
- Subjects: Core (Maltese, English, Mathematics, Science), with optional and vocational education
- Examinations: Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) exams at the end of Form 5
Post-Secondary Education
- Ages: 16-18 years
- Institutions: Sixth forms, higher secondary schools, vocational institutions
- Focus: Preparation for tertiary education or vocational training
- Examinations: Matriculation Certificate for university-bound students or vocational qualifications
Tertiary Education
- Institutions: The University of Malta, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), and other specialised institutes
- Focus: Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, diplomas, and vocational training
Admission Process
All children residing in Malta are eligible for state school enrollment. Registration is usually completed at the local school or through the Ministry for Education, with required documents such as a birth certificate, proof of residence, and health records.
School Policies
- Compulsory Education: Education is mandatory for children aged 5-16.
- Free Transport: Available for primary and secondary students.
- Uniforms: Most state schools have a uniform policy.
- Language of Instruction: Instruction is in both Maltese and English, reflecting Malta’s bilingual culture.
- Religion: Roman Catholic education is part of the curriculum, but students can opt-out and attend Ethics classes.
- School Hours: Typically from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, with variations by level.
Malta’s state schools aim to deliver high-quality education, supporting both academic success and personal development.
Foundation for Educational Services (FES)
The Foundation for Educational Services (FES) is a public entity established by the Maltese government to support students and families through various educational programs.
Mission
The FES aims to provide quality educational services that promote lifelong learning and holistic development.
Services and Programs
All services can be applied for through the FES website, with application status updates accessible through a personal account.
Klabb 3-16
- Ages: 3-16
- Details: A supervised, out-of-school-hours program offering homework assistance, recreational activities, and sports.
- Fee: €0.80 per hour
SkolaSajf (Summer School)
- Description: A summer program from July to September, with educational and recreational activities, including language learning, science, arts, and excursions. Extended service is available for working parents.
- Fee: €25 application fee
Childcare Centres
- Ages: 3 months to 3 years
- Focus: Early childhood social and developmental skills
Free Breakfast Club
- Eligibility: Primary students whose parents are employed or studying full-time
- Description: Offers a nutritious breakfast and supervised play before school begins. Registration is done online, with the service available at all primary state schools.
Malta’s state education system, supported by FES services, provides expat families with a comprehensive network of resources to help children thrive academically and socially. Expats should explore these services to ease their children’s integration and enrich their educational experience in Malta.
For up-to-date information, you can visit the FES website. And if you need assistance for your relocation to Malta, Expatax.mt is here to help!
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