Church schools form a core part of Malta and Gozo’s education system, offering free, faith-based education with a long-standing reputation for academic quality and Christian values. Across the islands, they serve around 17,000 students and employ over 3,000 teachers and staff, representing a significant portion of Malta’s non-state education sector.
How Church Schools Are Organised
Church schools in Malta and Gozo are run by religious orders and diocesan authorities. Many of these institutions were founded in the early 20th century or earlier, such as De La Salle College, which opened in 1903. Their mission is to provide a well-rounded education rooted in Catholic principles, with an emphasis on values like service, discipline, and personal integrity.
Although independently managed, church schools are funded by the state and do not charge tuition fees. They are governed by a common admissions policy and coordinated centrally by the Secretariat for Catholic Education.
Admissions
Demand for church school places is consistently high, often exceeding supply. In the 2024–2025 scholastic year, 1,790 places were available (1,538 in Malta and 252 in Gozo), while applications more than doubled that figure. The following year saw a similar pattern, with 1,817 places (1,577 in Malta and 240 in Gozo) offered.
The application process prioritises siblings of current students, children of staff members, and social cases. A random ballot system is then used to allocate the remaining places. Entry points vary by school but typically occur in kindergarten, Year 1, and Year 7.
Educational Scope
Most church schools in Malta and Gozo provide education from the early years up to the end of secondary school (age 16). However, a few institutions also operate sixth form colleges, allowing students to complete their post-secondary education (Years 12 and 13) within a church school environment.
Notable examples include St Aloysius College Sixth Form, which is among the most established and competitive sixth forms on the islands. These institutions prepare students for university through A-level or Matriculation Certificate programmes, in line with national standards.
There are no church-run universities in Malta. Students wishing to pursue higher education typically move on to institutions such as the University of Malta, MCAST, or private colleges. Those pursuing religious vocations may attend the Archbishop’s Seminary or study theology at the Faculty of Theology within the University of Malta, which operates in close affiliation with the Catholic Church.
Faith and Curriculum
While church schools follow the national curriculum, they also maintain a strong Christian identity. Daily life in these schools includes religious education, prayer, and values-based learning. This identity is seen as integral to the schools’ mission and is reinforced through ongoing staff formation and community involvement.
A 2023 study by the Secretariat for Catholic Education found widespread agreement among educators and parents on the need to maintain the Christian ethos of church schools, especially as society becomes more pluralistic.
Key Challenges
Teacher Recruitment and Retention
Like many sectors in Malta, church schools are facing recruitment difficulties. The shortage of qualified teachers, along with financial limitations compared to independent schools, is putting pressure on the system. Church authorities have acknowledged the problem and are exploring ways to make teaching in their schools more sustainable.
Expanding Capacity
In response to rising demand, a €20 million expansion plan was announced to add more classrooms and primary sections to existing secondary schools. If completed, the expansion could accommodate over 2,000 additional students in the coming years.
Church Schools in Gozo
Gozo has fewer church schools than Malta. The Bishop’s Conservatory Secondary School (also known as the Bishop’s Seminary) in Victoria is currently the only church school on the island. This limited provision contributes to the strong competition for places and means many Gozitan families opt for state schools unless they secure a place early in the process.
There are currently no sixth form options run by church schools in Gozo. Students pursuing further education typically commute to Malta or attend state-run sixth forms on the island.
Final Remarks
Church schools in Malta and Gozo continue to attract families looking for a values-driven education grounded in Catholic tradition. While access is limited due to high demand, ongoing investment in infrastructure and commitment to mission-based teaching ensures that these schools remain a trusted and respected option for many parents. For students who wish to complete their post-secondary education within a church-affiliated setting, a limited number of sixth forms are available, though university-level studies must be pursued elsewhere.
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