We hope you have a safe flight and a comfortable journey to Malta. This handbook will help you settle in and make the most of your time here.

Take a few minutes to read through it and familiarise yourself with the information provided — it contains everything you need to know about studying and living with Maltalingua.

On behalf of everyone at Maltalingua, we wish you an enjoyable and rewarding experience during your stay.

Your Maltalingua Team

Our mission is to provide a high-quality English-language education in a friendly, dynamic environment where students from all over the world can learn, grow, and connect.

Here are some useful details to help you get started:

Welcome Presentation and Orientation

On your first Monday (or Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday), please arrive at the school by 8:00 for the welcome programme. It includes the following:

• A welcome presentation with more information about Malta and Maltalingua.
• An introduction to the school’s leisure and activity programme.

After a short break, your first class will start at 9:00. Check the Maltalingua App or the class lists in the entrance hall for your name and room number.

Student Cards

You will receive your Maltalingua student card during the welcome meeting. Please complete your details and attach a photograph. Students are required by law to carry their student cards at all times in Malta. The card may also provide discounts at local restaurants and shops in St Julian’s and Sliema.

Welcome Party

Every Monday afternoon, we host a Welcome Party at the school for all new and existing students. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet classmates and staff while enjoying Maltese snacks, drinks, and a friendly atmosphere.

Our main goal is to help you improve your English communication skills. Lessons focus on listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Teachers set clear objectives for each class and create many opportunities to practise your English with classmates. You will receive regular feedback, homework, and progress checks to ensure your learning stays on track.

Here are a few simple tips to help you develop your English faster:

• Don’t be shy — everyone makes mistakes! The biggest mistake is not trying at all.
• Ask your teacher for extra help if you need it — we’re always happy to assist.
• Practise your English as much as possible outside the classroom.

Our English Levels
We offer seven English levels from A1 to C1, following the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Library

The lending library is open during school hours. You can borrow books by asking at reception. A refundable €10 deposit is required. Books are available for all levels and are a great way to practise your English outside class.

Course Material and Extra Studying

All course materials are included in your programme and provided daily by your teacher. If you wish to buy an extra book for personal study, these are available from the library from €23. Please ask the Director of Studies to recommend the right level for you.

Exam Advice (IELTS, Cambridge, etc.)

Our academic team can provide information about internationally recognised exams such as IELTS or Cambridge English. Speak with the Director or Assistant Director of Studies if you are interested in exam preparation.

Lessons are held Monday to Friday each week. Class schedules may vary depending on the time of year.

At busy times, the school may operate a double-banking timetable, where students alternate between morning and afternoon lessons. You will be informed in advance if this applies to your course.

Private lessons usually take place immediately after your regular course sessions.

Wi-Fi and Internet Studio

All classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards, and the Internet Studio is available during school hours. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the building — check the main hallway noticeboard for the password.

Rooftop Terrace

The rooftop terrace is available for use during breaks and free time. It includes a student kitchen with a fridge, kettle, toaster, and vending machines offering snacks, water, and soft drinks.

Swimming Pool

You’re welcome to relax by the pool in your free time. It’s a great place to meet friends, practise English, and enjoy the Maltese sunshine.

Our shared, self-catering Comfort Apartments are located near the school. We aim to create a friendly mix of nationalities, ages, and genders so you can meet people from around the world.

Please practise English whenever possible, even with students who share your native language.

To ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay, please follow these simple guidelines:

• Keep your apartment tidy. Weekly cleaning and linen changes are provided, but daily upkeep is your responsibility.
• Do not change rooms without permission. Speak to reception if you’d like to make a request.
• Rooms for new arrivals are ready from 15:00 on arrival day.
• Take rubbish out on the correct collection days (see your noticeboard).
• Only registered students may stay in your apartment — no guests allowed.
• Report any issues or damages to Maltalingua immediately.
• Be respectful of your flatmates and keep shared spaces clean.
• Speak to reception if you have any concerns about your accommodation.

Living with a host family is a wonderful way to experience local Maltese culture and practise English daily.

Communication is key. On arrival, sit down with your host to discuss routines, expectations, and household rules. Remember, you are a guest in their home.

• Keep your room and bathroom clean and tidy.
• Let your host know about any dietary preferences or allergies.
• Be on time for meals and notify your host if you’ll be late.
• Ask permission before using the kitchen or taking food.
• Always ask before inviting guests to the house.
• Tell your host where you’re going and when you’ll return.
• Respect quiet hours after 22:00.
• Take care of your house key — lost keys will need to be replaced at your expense.

“Stay with a Teacher” is a new and exciting Maltalingua programme that offers a truly immersive way to learn English. Instead of staying in traditional accommodation, you’ll live with a qualified English teacher who provides breakfast and dinner, allowing you to practise English naturally every day.

We want every student to enjoy a positive experience at Maltalingua. Please be considerate and keep the following in mind:

• Arrive on time for lessons. If you are more than 15 minutes late, you may need to wait for the next class.
• Keep your phone on silent during lessons.
• Attend classes regularly — the more consistent you are, the faster your progress.
• Inform us in advance if you’re sick or unable to attend classes.
• Speak English as much as possible, both in and outside of class.
• Share your feedback — you’ll receive a short questionnaire every Thursday to help us improve.

Malta is a safe and friendly island, but please follow these simple guidelines to stay safe and comfortable:

• Keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially in busy or tourist areas.
• Remember that vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Look both ways before crossing.
• Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar places or on beaches at night.
• Use public transport or trusted taxis. Never hitchhike.
• Store your passport and ID safely. Carry only a photocopy when possible.
• Bring your insurance card or private policy documents to any medical appointment.
• Do not drink alcohol in public areas. The legal drinking age is 17, and the smoking age is 18.
• Drug possession or use is strictly prohibited under Maltese law.
• Dress appropriately in public areas, churches, and historical sites. Swimwear is for the beach only.
• Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days — Malta’s sun can be strong year-round.

Quiet Hours: Please keep noise to a minimum between 13:00–16:00 and 23:00–07:00.

Students aged 16–17 studying at the adult school must follow these rules at all times:

• Attend all lessons and be punctual.
• No smoking under 18 years of age.
• No alcohol under 17 years of age.
• No use or possession of drugs.
• Always carry your Maltalingua ID card.
• Respect the curfew (see Junior Handbook for details).

If you experience any problems during your stay, please let us know immediately so we can help — don’t wait until the end of your course.

Study-related issues: Speak to your teacher first. If you’re still concerned, contact the Director of Studies.

Accommodation, activities, or transfers: Please speak to reception or the main office staff.

The school does not tolerate bullying, harassment, disruptive behaviour, or repeated absences.

Privacy and Data Protection (GDPR): Maltalingua respects your privacy and complies fully with EU data protection laws.