Secondary education in Malta for international students

Schools are classified in three types: public, church, and independent. Each type is distinguished with  its own features:

1. Public Schools: Both local and foreign students can enter these schools, which are located in major cities and villages. Transportation to and from school is free, as are necessary educational materials. Parents are responsible for buying uniforms and stationery.

2. Church Schools: These schools are free of charge to students, given the signed agreement with the government. However, parents are expected to make annual donations to cover certain expenses. Also parents are responsible for purchasing school supplies and uniforms.

3. Independent Schools: Educational process stipulates teaching from kindergarten to the end of secondary school. Also this type involves international schools designed for foreign students. Parents are required to pay for studying, educational materials, uniforms, and transportation costs.

Specialized Schools in Malta

In case of special needs, students are provided with the opportunity to attend specialized schools in Malta, including four resource centers. These centers are equipped with specialist teachers, facilities, and resources to aid children, who face difficulties during studies, integrating them into mainstream education.

• Bilingual Education: Given a bilingual status of country, English and Maltese are actively used in classrooms and playgrounds. Italian is also widely spoken. In public schools, teaching is conducted mainly in Maltese, except for English lessons. In the case of private schools, studying is generally conducted in English.

• Educational Quality:  International schools, which are globally recognized,  offer a wide choice of studying programs, with a focus on the British educational program. Students study diverse disciplines and pass interim and final exams. 

• Academic Calendar: The studying is conducted from September to June, with vacations during summer months. Also there are some breaks between terms of studying, including Christmas and Easter holidays.

• 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.