Home economics in Malta : when it started, how it grew, where it’s at

Abstract

Home economics (HE) as a school subject has been offered in Malta since the early 20th century when in 1910-1911 Domestic Economy was first introduced as an examinable subject in the curriculum for the Fifth Class in girls’ Secondary schools. Over the years, Domestic Economy and later Housecraft were introduced in elementary senior classes and eventually Housecraft and Needlework, then later Domestic Science and Needlework were a regular component of girls’ education. A special Housecraft School was opened in the 1930s and by the 1960s domestic science laboratories and needlework rooms were being built in all new schools. The aim of the various courses was not only personal and familial well-being, but also preparation for different types of employment. [excerpt]