Prime Minister lauds independent schools

The Times of Malta


Thursday, 25th March 2010

Independent schools formed a crucial link in Malta's educational system and the government believed parents should have the widest possible choice when it came to their children's education, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said.

The government was committed to supporting parents who sent their children to private schools. Parents were receiving tax credits of up to €1,400 for sending their children to private secondary schools. Up to €1,000 was deducted from the income tax returns of parents who sent children to private kindergartens and primary schools.

Dr Gonzi welcomed the formation of the Independent Schools Association, which he felt would help the government understand the needs of private schools better. "I'm sure this will lead to a healthy dialogue and more coordination," he said.

Dr Gonzi said creativity and innovation were key to his vision for Malta, outlined in Vision 2015. This could only be achieved through a strong and diverse educational system. Private schools could play an important role in offering international educational services, attracting foreign students to Malta.

Dr Gonzi was speaking during a visit to San Anton School, in the limits of Mġarr, where he was treated to a feast of bright colours and tasty Easter figolli. He was accompanied by Mrs Gonzi and by Education Minister Dolores Cristina.

Touring the school, Dr Gonzi got to see first-hand innovative practices that encouraged the holistic formation of students. These included a school radio station manned by students and a backyard habitat where youngsters were taught about Malta's indigenous flora and fauna.

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100325/local/prime-minister-lauds-independent-schools