The impact of Catholic values on schools' decision making : perspectives of the leadership teams of two Maltese Catholic faith schools

Abstract

In a society where contemporary culture is having a toll on Catholic values, church schools in Malta play a fundamental role in being a community of good Catholic practise. Due to the evident drop in vocations, the majority of Maltese church schools are run by lay people: boards of governors, directors, heads, senior leadership teams, teachers and staff. This state of affairs could jeopardise the role of Catholic faith schools in evangelising through the word of God. Thus the purpose of this mixed-method research study is to explore the influence of Catholic values on Senior Leadership Teams’ decision-making in two Maltese Catholic faith schools. This study seeks to provide valuable insight into how Catholic values influence decision-making in the daily life of church schools bringing to the fore view understandings and perceptions of various lay stakeholders. Significant similarities in how both colleges embody Catholic values within their communities and decision-making processes transpire. Four key themes emerge, reflecting the crucial role of local Catholic faith colleges in the Church’s mission of evangelization and the need to preserve and nurture this mission. This mission is evidenced through the enactment of Gospel values as a way of life, with an emphasis on holistic education that encompasses both academic and spiritual development. Addressing the main research question and its sub-questions, the study highlights the comprehensive and interconnected efforts of educators and leaders in these schools to foster communities that uphold Catholic principles. The study underscores the importance of maintaining a strong Catholic identity in all aspects of school life, particularly in curricular decision-making. Despite the challenges posed by contemporary culture, these educators and leaders adapt to modern times while striving to keep their school legacy relevant, thereby reinforcing the vital role of Catholic values in the educational landscape of Malta's church schools.