Should schools not be in a position to physically open, the scholastic year still needs to commence from the date established by each respective school, with lessons being offered online, the Curia said in a statement.

Church Schools have been working relentlessly to welcome students and educators in the safest environment possible. In order for this to be done, a lot of work has been carried out and a lot of expenses have been incurred, the statement said.

The Curia said that Church Schools have been holding discussions with the Ministry for Education and Employment, and the Malta Union of Teachers.

"The health and safety of all students, staff, their families, and the community at large, remains a priority for Church Schools. The increased community transmission of COVID-19 in recent days is of serious concern", the statement read.

"Unfortunately, these circumstances may be precluding the safe physical opening of schools. Church Schools insist that should schools not be in a position to physically open, the scholastic year still needs to commence from the date established by each respective school, according to their timetable, offering online lessons which will be live-streamed or recorded, and given by educators from their schools", it continued.

Church Schools appealled for all measures to be taken by public authorities and for everyone’s cooperation to attain a level of safety which would enable schools to physically open as soon as possible. This would be in the best interest of all students and of the education system, they said.