425 New Learning Support Educators Appointed In Malta In Just 1 Year

A total of 425 Learning Support Educators (LSEs) and Supply Learning Support Educators (SLSEs) were appointed in Malta between September 2025 and September 2026, according to new information revealed in Parliament.

The figure was confirmed by Education Minister Byron Camilleri in response to a parliamentary question, highlighting continued recruitment in a sector facing growing pressure to meet students' different educational needs.

LSEs play an essential role in Malta's education system, assisting students who require additional support due to disabilities, learning difficulties and other individual needs.

But Is Malta Keeping Up With Demand?

Despite hundreds of appointments, concerns about LSE shortages have continued.

In September 2026, several parents reported uncertainty over whether their children would have an LSE when schools reopened, with some fearing their children would be unable to attend classes without the necessary support.

The Education Ministry subsequently announced that 125 new LSEs would be joining the department.

Meanwhile, the Union of Professional Educators has also raised concerns about shortages, warning that insufficient classroom support places additional pressure on teachers and affects students' learning experiences.

The issue is not new. Back in January 2024, Parliament was informed that 180 applications for LSE support were still pending, with the oldest dating back to October 2022.

The latest 425 appointments demonstrate continued recruitment, although the figure alone does not establish whether demand has increased or whether all existing shortages have been addressed.

With hundreds of new educators being appointed, do you think Malta's schools are providing enough support for students who need it?

#MaltaDaily