Mcast students graduating from a childhood education higher diploma will now be able to enrol in the third year of a University of Malta undergraduate honours degree, following an agreement reached by the two educational institutions.

The Memorandum of Understanding will allow students with a higher diploma in Advanced Studied in the Early Years to progress to a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care. 

Honours graduates are eligible to work in the kindergarten sector and can also further their studies with a Masters in Teaching and Learning, a requirement for all new primary school teachers. 

The agreement will also see the two institutions collaborate further on joint continuous development sessions and the sharing of quality assurance procedures. 

Education Minister Evarist Bartolo (centre) applauds as representatives of the two institutions seal the MoU. Photo: University of Malta

"It also testifies to the fruitful collaboration between the Faculty of Education and MCAST, which is also being exploited in the area of Vocational Education and Training," the University said in a statement announcing the agreement. 

The MoU was signed by University rector Alfred J. Vella and Mcast board of governors president Silvio De Bono, in the presence of Education Minister Evarist Bartolo.