The MUT has been up and running for 85 years and it explained that it had to clarify certain issues because it did not want its credibility to be tainted.

The principals were also told that the government would implement the reform on the basis of a pilot project starting in January. “This confirms that things are being done and decisions being taken behind the MUT’s back,” the statement said.

Although the MUT has had two informal meetings with the minister regarding this reform, they were not enough. The union said it wishes to have more meetings with Minister Galea to solve issues that have been pending for years.

In a separate statement, the Minister denied that decisions were being taken without consultation with the union. Mr Galea said he met with the MUT president and secretary general to discuss this reform which then led to a long internal consultation process within the Education Division.

The MUT claimed it is in favour of any reform that will result in a radical change within the classroom but it does not agree that only the way schools are run must be changed. “Money should be put towards teaching and support for the schools and their principals,” said the union.

Much to Minister Galea’s disapproval, the MUT also said that 80 per cent of the National Curriculum is not being implemented. “This comment is not only unfair on all those who work within the educations sector, but it also raises issues within the Education Division, since it shoulders the responsibility for the implementation of said curriculum,” said the minister.

The MUT said the only way for the Minister to know the truth is to ask the teachers whether anything has changed since the publication of the National Curriculum five years ago. The union said it is ready to list all the things that are not being implemented.

Both the Minister and the MUT declared their dedication to promoting education in the most beneficial manner.

In another statement regarding the reforms within the education sector, Minister Galea explained that there is no plan for state schools to fall under one of the foundations.

In response to a comment made by opposition leader Alfred Sant quoted in the media, the Minister said state schools will remain the government’s responsibility, regulated by the Education Division – a national authority that ensures high quality teaching in all schools.