MALTA & Gozo
LEARNING ENGLISH IN THE SUN
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Upper Barr akka G a rdens Vallet ta, M alta
Malta is a leading destination for learning English. The country offers an unbeatable mix of good quality tuition on islands in the sun where English is an official language. Parents choose to send their teenagers to Malta because it is a safe destination. For adults, the added appeal is courses tailored to their specific needs. Malta and Gozo have decades of experience in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL).
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Schools are run professionally, are governed by legislation, and enjoy a strong reputation for quality, together with competitive pricing. At one time, the clientele consisted primarily of young people who came to Malta to enjoy a holiday in the Mediterranean, while learning English.
Over the years, this has expanded greatly. Teenagers still come to have a brilliant time mingling and learning with other youths from around the world. However, these have now been joined by people of all ages and from all walks of life who avail themselves of the excellent tuition opportunities that the islands have to offer. From doctors who need to improve their knowledge of medical terms in English to pilots who want to learn the language of air traffic control; from businessmen and women involved in international trade to those who wish to hone their English for engineering.
The vast array of options on offer are professionally delivered, with Malta’s licensed language schools known to go that extra mile to meet the bespoke learning needs of each individual client.
English in Malta Victoria gate Valletta, Malta
Malta is a bilingual nation: everyone speaks English and Maltese. If you are wondering why English is an official language, when the Maltese have a language of their own, the answer lies in the islands’ chequered history. The country was a British colony throughout the 19th and most of the 20th centuries, up until it gained independence in 1964. Switching between languages comes naturally to the local population because that is the way it has always been. Furthermore, the British influence is not only evident in cars driving on the left, but also in distinctive red letterboxes and telephone kiosks that can be found in most towns and villages. It is this rich and varied historical influence that helps form Malta’s present-day identity.
You will also notice that the Maltese speak English with their own distinct accent, just like Australians, Canadians, Americans, the Irish and people in parts of the UK do. However, the English spoken in Malta is clear and easy to understand, even for beginners.
“I’ve lived with a Host Family and I can say it was wonderful. The Maltese people are friendly people, always smiling.” Marco Civelli, aged 16, Italy
WHERE TO STAY
“The atmosphere is nice and friendly in the school. Staff are always ready to help with any issues about courses, excursions and any other questions. Malta is a very beautiful country with friendly people and a lovely climate. I was enjoying sun daily and the temperature in December was +16C! I was impressed with the sites and the architecture.” Mariya Vavilenkova, aged 27, Russia
There is plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation. Malta has hundreds of host families who provide lodging and meals for young students, treating them as their own. These families act as guardians and make sure students are well looked after. It is a fantastic way for students to practise what they learn at school in a real-life setting.
of your stay! Hostels are supervised and vary from shared dormitory accommodation to single rooms with en suite facilities.
Staying with a host family gives you the opportunity to get close to Maltese life and become immersed in local culture while sharing stories about where you come from. Alternatively, choose a youth hostel where you will live in an international village with a very mixed community. At times, some twenty to thirty nationalities may be living side by side. Undoubtedly, your social media circle will have gone global by the end
Apartment sharing is increasingly popular for young adults, especially for students spending several months in Malta. It is quite common to find small groups of different nationalities choosing to live under the same roof so as to be able to extend their English-speaking practice outside the classroom. Sharing accommodation not only provides support and companionship, but also helps keep costs down.
Work while you study
Lasting Friendships
Students from far afield come to Malta for several months at a time. This offers a three-in-one experience – furthering their English education, working part-time and enjoying the holiday lifestyle. Some language schools also offer internships where you may gain on-the-job experience, providing a good grounding for a future career.
“I was fortunate to go to such an amazing school. I was very nervous because it was the longest period of time I ever had to spend away from home. But what made me especially happy was how respectful they were towards my religion and culture, with no difficulties whatsoever.” Sharif, aged 24, Saudi Arabia
Genuine friendships are to be made while studying English in Malta. There is so much fun and life experience to be had in learning about somebody else’s culture and sharing yours. Many people who come to Malta at a young age form an emotional bond with the country, returning later in life with their families to relive happy memories. This could be the start of an adventure that lasts a lifetime.
“The teachers are very nice and the other students too. I have met a lot of students from different countries. I like the environment here. It is good for studying.” Yin Xihao, aged 17, China
Free Time is Fun Time
Of course, not all time is spent in the classroom. There is plenty of group activity in the sun and fresh air. Who wouldn’t want to take a cool swim on a hot day or explore the stunning Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino? Schools organise exciting cultural and entertaining activities such as hikes, treasure hunts and water sports, as well as supervised excursions.
“I wanted a school with good teachers, high quality and located in a very good place. I made so many friends from around the world and met many wonderful people. All in all, it has been an amazing experience.” Rafael Mesa Espinosa, aged 26, Colombia
Safety First
“It was incredible - lots of friends, international contacts, an unforgettable trip and the discovery of another universe.” Marie Courmont, aged 18, France
Whatever your age, Malta is a great place to relax and be carefree, but this is especially true for young people embarking on their first adventure without their family. The island has a very low crime rate. Besides, the Maltese are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality and are always eager to lend a helping hand. Accredited language schools abide by the highest standards, all staff undergo regular mandatory inspections and students are well supervised.
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Gozo, the second largest island in the Maltese archipelago, offers its own distinct charms. It is a place of natural beauty and the island to head for if you like to get away from the crowds and enjoy a slower pace. It has a striking coastline and is home to the Ġgantija Temples, the oldest freestanding structures in the world, dating from around 3600 BC. Just like schools on the main island, language schools in Gozo welcome adults, teens and juniors.
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Tas-Salvatur Hill MARSALFORN, GOZO
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The three weeks in Gozo flew by and the lessons were never boring. I have learned so much and the island is so beautiful. I went swimming, hiking and cycling.” Hans-Dieter, aged 64, Germany
GOZO
Ġgantija Temples Xagħra, Gozo
Doing it right
Adult Tuition You may find that some language schools operate exclusively for a particular age group – such as 30 plus or 50 and over. You will improve your English alongside people of your own age. It is an ideal way to make new friends from different countries in a relaxed setting. Learning conversational English is a priority. Part of the experience is trying out what you learn during everyday conversation in shops, restaurants and banks. You will enjoy the social element, taking part in excursions and visiting tourist attractions. Specialised courses help with the development of language skills in particular areas relating to business, such as the legal profession or in hospitality. There is a wide selection of courses available. One-to-one lessons are an option too. More intensive courses are available for those who want to make fast progress in a limited time. Schools ensure that your experience is provided with a good work-life balance. A morning’s study can be followed by an afternoon visiting historical gems or just relaxing by the pool.
Language schools in Malta and Gozo are well-monitored. Malta is one of only a few countries with strict legislation determining who can open a school. Schools are accredited with the EFL Monitoring Board, a part of the Ministry for Education, and many are members of FELTOM (Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations Malta), which has been established for more than thirty years, with the aim of helping to advance the quality of English language education and develop co-operation between licensed language schools.
“Before I came to Malta, I had never learnt English. Everything was perfectly organised accommodation at the school, the environment for learning in the classroom, fantastic teaching methods of all the teachers without any stress. I love this place!” Yuliyan, aged 31, Bulgaria
There is no shortage of accommodation options for adults and professionals seeking to brush up their language skills. Malta has a large and varied range of hotels to suit every budget and taste. Home stays are popular too, either with a host or selfcatering.
“I did not only learn business English but also learnt about the cultures and customs of various countries by talking to my tutors and other students. The Language Centre had professional students from all over St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta
Yohei Amano, aged 41, Japan