Today’s blog is dedicated to a topic of utmost importance for families considering emigrating to Malta: the Maltese school system.
When transitioning to a new education system in another country, parents face many questions and uncertainties.
Interview with a German teacher who emigrated to Malta with her family
On the occasion of this important topic, we conducted a video interview with Ms. Bettina Berger, a German teacher who took the plunge with her family five years ago.
The interview with Bettina Berger brings valuable perspective as she shares her own experiences as a primary school teacher and mother of two children who have transferred to the Maltese school system. Ms. Berger’s story shows that the decision to live and study abroad must be carefully considered and depends on numerous factors. Her experience report provides valuable insights into the Maltese education system and serves as orientation for families who are considering similar steps.
From the German school system to life in Malta: Ms. Berger’s experience report
When Ms. Berger moved to Malta with her family five years ago, a whole new chapter began for her. Originally from Germany, where she worked as a primary school teacher specializing in sports, the move brought many changes, not only for her, but also for her two children, who were 14 and 19 years old at the time.
The decision to move to Malta was closely linked to the professional situation of her husband, who already had business connections to the island. The children switched from German schools to the Maltese education system, a challenge that the family mastered thanks to careful preparation. It is particularly noteworthy that both children skipped a year of school to be with their peers, which worked well thanks to the similar level of education between German and Maltese schools.
Ms. Berger used the first few months in Malta to help her children settle in before she changed careers herself. Today she gives private German lessons and teaches at one of Malta’s private schools. Her experiences with the Maltese education system are characterized by the realization of how important language skills are for integration and learning. She emphasizes how helpful it was that her children were familiarized with the English language before they emigrated in order to facilitate their entry into the new school system.
The family deliberately opted for private schools to ensure a continuous education in English and to gradually introduce the Maltese language. They ultimately chose private schools, partly because of the positive experiences they had already had in Germany.
Cost overview of private schools in Malta
However, the costs of these educational institutions should not be underestimated: Ms. Berger pays around 6,300 euros a year for her daughter’s school fees, while her son’s school costs around 3,000 euros, in addition to the cost of books, exercise books and school uniforms.
Despite the challenges and costs, Ms. Berger sees many advantages in opting for private schools. A key point is the community of children who share similar experiences of moving and adapting to a new culture. She also assumes that parental involvement in private schools has a positive influence on the learning environment.
Recognition of educational qualifications
One aspect that should not be neglected is the question of the recognition of educational qualifications. While degrees from schools in Malta are internationally recognized, there are specifics, such as the Maltese language requirement for admission to the University of Malta, that families should consider when planning.
Ms. Berger’s choice of school in Malta: Personal recommendations
St. Michael Foundation & Verdala International School
There are a variety of school options in Malta, ranging from pre-school to secondary school. Ms. Berger has personal experience with the St. Michael Foundation and the Verdala International School. The St. Michael Foundation offers a comprehensive education from primary to secondary school and prepares students for O-Levels, which are typically completed at the age of 16. Verdala, on the other hand, is a purely international school that takes students from kindergarten through to the Abitur and follows an international curriculum.
Newark School
A smaller, but no less remarkable school is the Newark School, which is characterized by smaller class sizes. Ms. Berger finds this particularly advantageous for newly arrived children, as it enables teachers to respond to pupils on a more individual basis.
School buses and school times according to Ms. Berger’s experience
An outstanding service in Malta is the free school bus, which picks the children up directly from home or a nearby meeting point. School hours vary, but are generally between 8:00 and 15:00. This ensures efficient organization and minimizes waiting times for the students, according to Ms. Berger.
The education system: advantages and disadvantages
One of the things that Ms. Berger has noticed positively in Maltese schools is the respectful interaction between teachers and pupils. However, there are also challenges, such as the lack of lunch in some schools, which means that parents have to provide packed lunches.
An inclusive environment: Ms. Berger’s observations
A major advantage of the Maltese education system is the promotion of multilingualism. Students have the opportunity to learn languages other than English and Maltese in a natural context. In addition, great importance is attached to cooperation, personal development and the prevention of bullying, observes Ms. Berger.
Vacations and adjustment period in Malta’s schools
The summer vacation in Malta is quite long compared to many other countries at three months. This offers families the opportunity to spend time together or get involved in additional activities. The settling-in period can vary, but is usually between six and twelve months, during which the children begin to feel part of the community, says Ms. Berger.
Concluding thoughts from Ms. Berger
The decision to move to Malta and send her children to school here was not easy, but ultimately enriching. Ms. Berger emphasizes that the happiness and well-being of her children should be paramount, regardless of whether they decide to stay in Malta or go back to their home country. Malta offers a unique educational environment that allows children to grow not only academically but also personally.
Conclusion: A solid start in Malta
Deciding to move to Malta with your family is an exciting step that requires thorough preparation, especially in the area of education. By choosing the right school and providing your children with comprehensive preparation, you can lay the foundations for successful academic and personal development in a new country.
DW&P is at your side, not only in tax matters, but also in the transition to a new life in Malta. Contact us for comprehensive advice to help you make the transition as smooth as possible for your family.
Would you like to find out more about life and schooling in Malta at first hand? Watch our exclusive video interview with Ms. Bettina Berger, a German teacher who took the brave step of emigrating to Malta with her family. Find out how she overcame the challenges of changing schools, which schools she chose for her children and what tips she has for newly arriving families. Click[here] to get valuable insights and practical advice directly from someone who has already successfully traveled this path.
