The Summer Catch-Up Classes Programme 2026 came to an end on Thursday, 3 September, following eight weeks of learning, activities and meaningful experiences for approximately 2,000 students across Malta and Gozo.
This summer marked the sixth edition of the Catch-Up Classes Programme, which once again proved to be a great success. Since its launch, the programme has continued to provide students with an opportunity to consolidate their learning, revise key subjects and remain engaged with their education during the summer months.
The Summer Catch-Up Classes are offered free of charge by the Ministry for Education and are coordinated by Ms Rodienne Bartolo Delmar, National Coordinator of the Catch-Up Classes Programme. The initiative ensures that students and their families can benefit from additional educational support throughout the summer holidays, providing learners with the opportunity to consolidate their knowledge, revise key subjects and remain engaged in their learning within a structured, supportive and enjoyable environment.
The programme ran from Monday, 13 July until Thursday, 3 September, with classes being held from Monday to Thursday over an eight-week period.
A Nationwide Programme
This year’s Summer Catch-Up Classes operated from 13 centres, including nine primary centres and four centres catering for secondary school students, including virtual provision.
The primary centres were located at:
- Marsaskala Primary
- Paola Primary
- Kirkop Primary
- San Ġwann Primary
- Santa Venera Primary
- Mosta Primary
- St Paul’s Bay Primary
- Rabat Gozo Primary
- Virtual Primary
The secondary centres were located at:
- Kirkop Secondary
- Mosta Secondary
- Mrieħel Secondary
- Virtual Secondary
The programme brought together approximately 130 educators, nine Centre Coordinators and one National Coordinator, all working collectively to ensure the smooth running and success of the initiative.
Approximately 2,000 students attended the programme regularly throughout the eight weeks, benefiting from additional educational support in a structured but enjoyable learning environment.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Throughout the programme, students had the opportunity to revise and consolidate their knowledge in core subjects, including Mathematics, Maltese, English and Science, while secondary students also worked on subjects such as Physics.
The programme also incorporated other important areas of learning, including Art and Physical Education, ensuring that students experienced a balanced and engaging programme.
However, the Summer Catch-Up Classes were not solely focused on academic revision. Students were also given opportunities to participate in a variety of enjoyable activities throughout the summer.
These included a Sports Day, water games and other centre-based activities, allowing students to socialise, remain active and enjoy their time together.
The positive atmosphere created throughout the programme was also reflected in the encouraging feedback received from parents, who expressed their appreciation for the support, structure and learning opportunities provided to their children during the summer holidays.
Learning and Giving Back to the Community
One of the highlights of this year’s programme was the involvement of students, educators and Centre Coordinators in a number of fundraising activities.
Throughout the eight weeks, three fundraising initiatives were organised across the centres, including a Muffin Day, Pizza and Hot Dog Day and an Ice-Cream Day.
Thanks to the generosity and support of students, parents, educators and Centre Coordinators, the Summer Catch-Up Classes community raised approximately €3,100 in aid of Puttinu Cares.
Each year, the Catch-Up Classes Programme chooses a charitable organisation or cause to support. This year, the programme once again chose Puttinu Cares, recognising the invaluable work carried out by the organisation in supporting children and families facing serious illness.
The fundraising activities provided students with an important opportunity to learn about solidarity, generosity and giving back to the community.
In addition, Mosta Primary and Mosta Secondary also organised a separate fundraising activity in aid of Love and Peace Malta, a missionary foundation supporting children in developing countries.
A total of €235 was collected and donated to the foundation. The donation will be used by the founder, Ms Mariella Whelen, to purchase two beds for an orphanage in Uganda currently being supported by the organisation.
These initiatives demonstrated that the Catch-Up Classes Programme extends beyond academic learning. While supporting students in their educational development remains at the heart of the programme, students are also encouraged to develop important values such as empathy, social responsibility and care for others.
A Celebration to Conclude the Programme
The Summer Catch-Up Classes 2026 came to an end with celebrations held at each individual centre.
On the final day of the programme, students and educators came together to celebrate the successful completion of another eight-week summer programme. The end-of-programme celebrations provided an opportunity for students to reflect on their experiences, enjoy time with their peers and mark the conclusion of a productive and enjoyable summer.
A Collective Success
The continued success of the Catch-Up Classes Programme is the result of a collective effort.
The commitment, professionalism and perseverance demonstrated by all educators, Centre Coordinators and professionals involved have been fundamental to the successful delivery of the programme.
The educators’ dedication towards supporting students, encouraging them to engage with their learning and helping them progress has made a meaningful difference to the educational experience of many learners.
Despite the challenges that can arise when operating a large-scale programme across multiple centres during the summer months, the commitment and teamwork shown by everyone involved ensured that the programme continued to provide a high-quality educational experience.
The Catch-Up Classes Programme continues to demonstrate the importance of providing students with additional learning opportunities and support, while also creating an environment where education can be engaging, enjoyable and inclusive.
As the sixth edition of the programme comes to a close, the Summer Catch-Up Classes 2026 leave behind another summer of learning, friendship, personal development and community spirit.
The success of the programme would not have been possible without the contribution of every educator, Centre Coordinator, student, parent and stakeholder involved.
The commitment and perseverance of all educators have been at the heart of this success. Their willingness to give their utmost to support students, prepare engaging lessons and create a positive learning environment has made a real difference to the students and families who participated in the programme.
As Helen Keller famously said:
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
This spirit of collaboration and collective commitment remains at the heart of the Catch-Up Classes Programme and continues to make a positive difference in the lives and educational journeys of students and their families.
The Ministry for Education looks forward to continuing to build on the success of the Catch-Up Classes Programme and ensuring that it remains a valuable source of educational support for students in the years to come.
