A total of 37,771 students will start the 2026/27 scholastic year in state schools, as more than €110 million in new and upgraded school projects is currently under way, a government statement said.

The students, ranging from kindergarten to secondary level, include 2,754 new students and will be taught by 8,861 educators, the statement said.

Minister for Education and Sport Byron Camilleri said that every one of these 37,771 students deserves a safe, modern school and a teacher who believes in them.

"That is where our investment goes, and we wish every student, parent and educator a good year ahead."

So far, this scholastic year, 36,457 students are using free school transport, including 15,370 students attending state schools and 21,087 attending Church and independent schools.

The service is free for every eligible student from KG1 to Year 11 living more than 1km from their school, across 207 schools.

Meanwhile, the Foundation for Tomorrow's Schools has over €110 million in projects under way.

These include a hydrotherapy complex for children with disability at San Miguel in Pembroke, which is expected to be ready by the end of 2026.

In Gozo, Kerċem primary school is opening its doors this year, while works on Żebbuġ primary school are set to start soon.

Sports facilities, halls and parking in new schools are open to the community after school hours, the statement said.

Other projects include a new EU co-funded primary school in Naxxar, which is set to open next year, a new primary school in Mellieħa with a hall and sports facilities, and an extensive refurbishment of San Ġorġ primary school in Qormi.

The statement also said that 187 teachers have been engaged this year, comprising 142 new regular teachers and 45 new supply teachers.

Around €2 million was invested in 160 maintenance projects over the summer, covering classrooms, roofs, toilet blocks, play areas and furniture through EDU Infrastructure.

Under the EDU Infrastructure Programme, Valletta Primary School will also open its doors after undergoing a €2.2 million renovation.

Works included air conditioning and photovoltaic panels, accessible bathrooms on every floor, sensory-friendly colours and finishes for students with autism, upgraded safety systems and new outdoor sports facilities with artificial grass.

Other projects are under way in parallel, including at schools in Birkirkara, Blata l-Bajda and Sliema, among others, the statement said.