Editorial

The rationalisation programme that five Church schools are embarking upon so that they may have what could be termed as "complete cycles" at the primary and secondary levels of education is the latest much-welcomed development in a very long story.

The first main episode in the contemporary history of these schools goes back to almost 40 years ago when, in June 1970, the then Malta Private Secondary Schools Association (MPSSA) signed an agreement with the Nationalist Administration of the time aiming at seeing private schools, which were mainly Church-owned, receive the same benefits as government schools and, while retaining their identity and autonomy, submit themselves to the education authorities' inspections and efficiency requirements.

This step was followed by the introduction of what was known as the Capitation Grant programme but the agreement itself was never realised. Following the 1971 change in government, the new Socialist Administration embarked on its own course as regards the Church and its schools.

Step by step, the situation developed into a very dark episode in the history of state-Church relations and education in Malta. The main issue was on how to make tuition in Church schools free of charge. The big crisis dragged on until April 27, 1985, when an agreement on how to proceed was concluded between the state and the Church.

A draw by ballot system was introduced for the annual selection for admission to classes at Kindergarten One, Kindergarten Two (pregrade), and Year 1 levels of Church schools. The aim was to leave no chances of discrimination among students. Yet, there are people who continue to have reservations regarding this system. On their part, the Church authorities have repeatedly said they are open to consider any alternative system that would ensure a fairer means of admission.

The admission criteria included brothers and sisters in the same school, meaning that a considerable number of available places are taken up by siblings, something parents do not always agree with, usually depending on whether their children are admitted or not.

It is against this background that Church school authorities are moving on to see schools with just one level of education, primary or secondary, having both levels. Subject to the confirmation of the highest bodies of authority of the religious orders involved, where this is necessary, the phasing-in period for the new primary schools to be opened by four Church schools and the opening of the new secondary school is expected to begin in the scholastic year starting September 2011.

This extension programme, involving an estimated €20 million structural investment, is expected to see the number of students accepted each year growing by 40 per cent:1,650 students at primary level and over 500 in secondary level. This will mean more space and chances for prospective candidates. All children receiving primary education in Church schools would be able to continue their secondary education also in a Church school. Children of staff would be able to enrol in schools where their parents work and there will no longer be the need to select students through a common entrance examination for secondary level.

The reform forms an essential part of the Church's way ahead in its mission and responsibility of giving due importance to education. It is indeed good to see Church schools responding to present-day expectations and strengthening their much-appreciated valid service.