Seminar for Lasallian teachers

The scholastic year for teachers working in Maltese Lasallian Schools (run by the Christian Brothers, otherwise known as Freres) started with an important seminar held at the Radisson SAS Bay Point Resort in St Julian's. This seminar was organised by the Freres, who run De La Salle College, Stella Maris College and St Benild School.

In his introduction, the provincial of the order and director of the three schools, Br Martin Borg, FSC, spoke about the theme of the seminar "Moving Forward the Lasallian Heritage". He stated that after three centuries, the teachings of the founder of Lasallian schools, St John Baptist De La Salle, are still valid today.

"Teachers in Lasallian schools should not be afraid of new challenges and change and should always be aware that the ethos of Lasallian schools is unique and different from that of other schools," he commented.

The provincial also launched the Lasallian Sector Educational Council, made up of Brothers and of professionals directly linked to the life of the three schools. Its members, besides Br Martin, are Br Dominic Rosso, Br Saviour Gatt, Br Edward Galea, Dr Charles Briffa, Lawrence Zammit, Professor Mark Brincat, Dr Ranier Fsadni, Dr Valerie Sollars and Dr Victor Scerri.

Br Saviour spoke about the Lasallian mission in today's world while Mr Zammit introduced the role of the council. He confirmed that in the coming weeks, members of the council will not only meet the heads of school and teachers but will also observe the way the Lasallian schools are being run today.

The schools' development plans, policies and the way the curriculum is being implemented will also be scrutinised by the council.

Over 300 teachers attended the seminar and also took part in ten workshops, which dealt with various topics. They were co-ordinated by Dr Briffa.