Around 17,000 students and more than 3,000 educators have begun the new scholastic year in Church schools across Malta and Gozo, spanning the kindergarten, primary, secondary, and post-secondary levels, the Archdiocese said Wednesday.

As is customary, the Secretariat for Catholic Education welcomed new educators joining the sector with a special preparatory event. This year, around 130 new educators were officially greeted by the Delegate for Catholic Education, Fr Mark Ellul, and the Director General of the Secretariat, Dr Ian Mifsud. Following a thanksgiving Mass, speakers including Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi highlighted the importance of holistic education in Church schools - an education that touches not only the mind but also the soul.

Speakers stressed that in a world where information is increasingly accessible and artificial intelligence is rapidly advancing, Catholic education must continue to focus on the full formation of the person, ultimately leading each individual to an encounter with Jesus. In shaping knowledge and skills, emphasis should be placed on critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. Educators were reminded of their vital role in strengthening the people of God through their presence and work in schools, serving as witnesses of Gospel values and Christian ethos.

Alongside the necessary administrative preparations for the new school year, a number of schools also carried out improvement works to enhance their learning environments. During the summer months, the Secretariat for Catholic Education moved to its new centre in Balzan, part of the Good Shepherd Sisters' complex. The final touches are underway, with the centre set to be inaugurated officially later this year.

Several measures benefiting both students and staff were also implemented. One notable achievement was the successful introduction of a system through which the Secondary Education Certificate (SEC/'O' Levels) began to include assessment carried out over the last three years of secondary school. While there is still room for improvement, this change has laid an important foundation for the future. Additionally, following new agreements between the Government and various trade unions, the Secretariat has continued work on salary adjustments to ensure that employees receive what is due to them in line with official parameters.

In a message to all students and educators, Archbishop Charles Scicluna wished for an academic year marked by hard work and a commitment to the holistic formation of children and young people. Quoting St George Preca, he reminded all that "education is the source of every good."

The Archbishop also underlined that true learning comes from an inclusive, holistic education system that promotes sound values, discipline, responsibility, and compassion towards the vulnerable.

Around 2,000 new students are joining one of the 55 Church schools in Malta and Gozo this year. In total, there were some 4,300 applications from families seeking entry into Church schools. Details about the 2026-2027 scholastic year in Church schools are expected to be announced at the beginning of November on knisja.mt.