Early childhood education for sustainability in Malta

Abstract

In this chapter, I outline the status of early childhood education for sustainability (ECEfS) in Malta, a small island state. The political climate is often an important factor in how people view such programmes in the early years and Malta is no different in that regard. One needs to look at the history of the Maltese education system and educational reforms introduced over the years to fully understand the picture. Therefore, this chapter charts Malta’s attempts to define and achieve sustainability through education programmes, policies and practices that have evolved over time. Here, I explore aspects of economic and political developments and their influence on the trajectories of environmental education and ECEfS in Malta. Next, I consider how curricular and educational decisions have influenced the inclusion, or otherwise, of ECEfS. Building on these, there appear to be limited opportunities for the implementation of ECEfS in Malta, thus highlighting the need for further awareness. In addition, I share recent Maltese research studies and how these have furthered our understandings and broadened ECEfS programming for young children. Finally, I offer some recommendations for locating ECEfS centrally in the Maltese education system and some suggestions for future research, policy and practice.