Around 17,000 Students Begin New Scholastic Year In Church Schools

Around 17,000 students and more than 3,000 educators are beginning or continuing their educational journey across Malta and Gozo’s 55 Church schools for the 2026-2027 scholastic year.

A total of 1,950 new students have registered to start at a Church school this year, while around 150 new educators and staff members are joining the school community.

In a message marking the start of the scholastic year, Archbishop Charles Scicluna encouraged students and educators to focus on respect, unity, wisdom and care for others.

He also urged students to use social media responsibly and ensure that their lives are not limited to the online world.

Ahead of the new school year, the Secretariat for Catholic Education organised formation sessions for educators, highlighting their role not only as teachers but also as people who accompany students throughout their educational journey.

Fr Mark Ellul, Delegate for Catholic Education, said the continued interest of parents in Church schools reflects trust in the mission of providing a complete formation for children. He added that this trust carries a responsibility towards students, families and society.

The Secretariat said Church schools will continue focusing on strengthening critical thinking and discernment as technology and artificial intelligence increasingly influence education and daily life.

During the year, priority will also be given to implementing Catholic Education in Malta: The Mission of Church Schools in Maltese Society Today and Tomorrow, the identity document for Church schools launched in May 2026.

The document presents a vision of schools as communities centred on Christian values, the dignity of each person and openness to Malta’s diverse society. The Secretariat will continue investing in the formation of educators, leaders, staff and parents to further strengthen the identity of Church schools.

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