Susan MeierOne of the most pressing concerns for families considering a move to Malta is the education system. When relocating to a new country, parents are often faced with a barrage of questions and uncertainties regarding their children's schooling.
To provide real-world insights, we sat down with Bettina Berger, a German teacher who took the leap and moved to Malta with her family five years ago.
Interview with an Expat Teacher in Malta
Bettina Berger offers a unique dual perspective: she is both an experienced primary school teacher and a mother who has navigated the Maltese school system firsthand. Her story highlights that choosing to live and educate children abroad requires careful planning and depends on numerous personal factors. Her experience serves as an excellent roadmap for international families considering a similar move.
From the German System to Life in Malta
When Bettina relocated to Malta five years ago, it marked the beginning of a completely new chapter. Originally a primary school teacher specializing in sports in Germany, the move brought significant changes not just for her, but for her two children, who were 14 and 19 at the time.
The decision to move was driven by her husband's business ties to the island. Transitioning her children from the German system to the Maltese one was a challenge the family met with careful preparation. Interestingly, her children were able to integrate well with their age groups, a process smoothed by the academic standards they brought with them.
Bettina used the first few months in Malta to help her children settle in before re-establishing her own career. Today, she teaches private German lessons and works at one of Malta's private schools. Her experience underscores a key reality of the Maltese system: language proficiency is the gateway to integration. She notes how helpful it was that her children had already been introduced to English before the move, which significantly eased their transition.
The family made a conscious decision to choose private schools to ensure continuous education in English while gradually introducing the Maltese language. This choice was also influenced by their previous positive experiences with private education.
Overview of Private School Fees in Malta
While private schools in Malta are generally more affordable than in the UK or mainland Europe, the costs are still a factor to consider. Bettina shares that she pays approximately €6,300 annually for her daughter's tuition, while her son's school fees are around €3,000 per year. Parents should also budget for additional expenses such as textbooks, stationery, and school uniforms, which are standard in Malta.
Despite the costs, Bettina sees distinct advantages. A major benefit is the community; these schools are full of children who share the experience of relocation and adapting to a new culture. She also notes that parental engagement in private schools often contributes to a positive learning environment.
Recognition of Qualifications
For expat families, the recognition of school leaving certificates is crucial. Qualifications from Maltese schools (such as SEC/O-Levels and Matriculation/A-Levels) are internationally recognized, particularly in the UK. However, there are nuances to be aware of. For instance, entry into the University of Malta typically requires a pass in Maltese, though there are exemptions and specific pathways for international students. Families should plan for this early on.
School Recommendations: A Personal View
St. Michael Foundation & Verdala International School
Malta offers a wide range of options from pre-school to Sixth Form. Bettina has personal experience with the St. Michael Foundation and the Verdala International School.
- St. Michael Foundation offers a comprehensive education from primary through to secondary school, preparing students for their O-Levels (taken at age 16).
- Verdala International School is a purely international institution. It follows an international curriculum (including the IB Diploma) and caters to students from kindergarten right through to pre-university age.
Newark School
Another option mentioned is the Newark School. While smaller, it is notable for its small class sizes. Bettina points out that this can be particularly beneficial for newly arrived children, as it allows teachers to provide more individual attention during the adjustment period.
Logistics: School Transport and Hours
One excellent feature of the Maltese system is the free school transport scheme, which picks children up from their homes or nearby collection points. School days typically run between 08:00 and 15:00, though this varies by institution. According to Bettina, the transport system is generally efficient and minimizes the logistical burden on parents.
The School Environment: Pros and Cons
One aspect Bettina praises is the respectful relationship between teachers and students in Maltese schools. However, there are cultural differences to get used to. For example, unlike some countries where hot school meals are standard, many schools in Malta require parents to provide packed lunches.
An Inclusive Atmosphere
A major strength of the Maltese education system is its promotion of multilingualism. Students learn English and Maltese, often alongside other languages like Italian, French, or German. Bettina also observes a strong emphasis on community, personal development, and anti-bullying policies within the schools.
Holidays and Adjustment Periods
Summer holidays in Malta are long by international standards—lasting roughly three months. While this requires childcare planning, it also offers families ample time to bond or engage in summer schools and activities. regarding the adjustment period, Bettina suggests it typically takes children between six and twelve months to truly feel part of the community.
Final Thoughts
The decision to move to Malta and place her children in local schools was challenging but ultimately enriching. Bettina emphasizes that the happiness and well-being of the children must always be the priority. Malta offers a unique educational environment that allows children to grow not just academically, but personally.
Conclusion: A Solid Start in Malta
Relocating your family to Malta is an exciting step that requires thorough preparation, especially regarding education. By selecting the right school and preparing your children for the language transition, you lay the foundation for a successful academic and personal life in your new home.
At DW&P Dr. Werner & Partners, we support you beyond just tax and legal structuring. We guide you through the entire relocation process. Contact us for a consultation to ensure your family's move is as smooth as possible.
Want to hear more about life and schooling in Malta first-hand?
Watch our exclusive video interview with Bettina Berger. She discusses how she mastered the challenges of changing school systems, why she chose specific schools, and her top tips for newly arriving families.
Click [here] to get valuable insights and practical advice directly from someone who has successfully walked this path.
