Credit to De La Salle Brothers

Let us give credit where it is due. The De La Salle Brothers have made a priceless contribution to education in Malta since their arrival over 100 years ago, and today their schools are run on sound pedagogical principles - principles that the new reforms in education will soon introduce in state schools.

We appreciate the clear vision that the Brothers had when they set up a college - made up of junior, secondary and sixth form - and proposed a go-through education which eliminates undue pressure and selectivity for 11-year-olds. The Brothers' schools are exemplary: the students are not streamed, examinations are school-based, and above all, they are inclusive.

How does it work? Only thanks to the resourcefulness, zeal, creativity and financial support provided by the Brothers. In the primary school alone, the college has a system of support teaching to engage all students, as well as subject teachers, to allow class teachers to meet regularly and plan their lessons.

Other 'extras' include an inclusion co-ordinator, subject and year leaders, and specialised teachers for drama, art, music, PE and ICT. Isn't it time to acknowledge that such inclusive non-selective educational systems need more human and financial support?

If one were to ask whether such a college with a ballot system for entry into Year 1 can be successful: the answer is to look at our MATSEC results which - compared to the national level - speak for themselves.