The administration of inclusive education in Malta

Abstract

Education in Malta has always been considered as one of the pillars of our society. Throughout the years, the education system has been reshaped und renewed to adapt to the worldwide socio-economic revolution that took place in recent years. This transformation included the provision for inclusive and special education which shows that Maltese education is one that celebrates diversity and difference. This project asks whether these changes have actually taken place in practice. This will be done through an analysis of the administration of inclusive education in Malta to evaluate whether it is reaching its stated objectives. For this purpose, an investigation among the key players in the field was carried out enquiring whether quality education is delivered across the board or otherwise. This research indicates that notwithstanding the total government commitment towards the success of this policy, there still exist many grey areas which need to be addressed for all children to succeed. Whilst recognizing the success of the inclusion policy in terms of primary socialization, this study concluded that the system of support provision actually in force leaves much to be desired in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. Furthermore, a number of administrative practices need to be improved in order to embrace the particular needs of these children. The educational system already embarked on a project in this direction as this is considered to be the only way forward to achieve a truly inclusive society that welcomes and celebrates diversity.