The Member Forum on Education took part in a study visit to the University of Malta and San Miguel Primary Education Resource Centre. Participants included education support service providers from Belgium, Portugal, Greece and Albania. The study visit aimed to provide the participants with an understanding of the education system in Malta and the education opportunities for persons with disabilities (mainstream schools, special schools etc.) as well as showcase current work to promote inclusive education.

There were several presentations. One by Josanne Ghirxie from the Ministry of Education, providing information on the use of technology to promote inclusion and the recent initiative of the Maltese government to create a multi-disciplinary resource centre in each primary school. The second presentation was by Ms Marchita Mangiafico from the University of Malta. Ms Mangiafico presented the work of the university to increase the enrolment and successful graduation of students with disabilities.

For the final session of the visit the participants visited the San Miguel Primary Education Resource Centre. The centre provides education on a full-time basis to students with complex disabilities whose age range from 3 years to 11 years. San Miguel also provides services to around 60 students who come from primary state schools, church schools and independent schools. All the students have complex needs and so learning has to be a sensory experience. The participants had the chance to tour the centre, meet with various teachers and therapeutic professionals and learn more about the work of the schools.