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Award in Maltese as a Foreign Language for Childcare Educators (EQF/MQF Level 1)

About Course

The Teaching, Learning and Assessment Procedures are designed to integrate theoretical understanding with practical application to ensure participants develop effective communication skills. Core theoretical concepts are delivered through engaging, interactive lectures that encourage active participation, questioning, and discussion to reinforce learning. Role-playing and simulations are incorporated during lectures and online classes, allowing learners to practise real-life conversation scenarios in a structured and supportive environment. Quizzes and written assessments, also integrated into lectures and online sessions, are used to consolidate key concepts and evaluate comprehension of theoretical knowledge. Continuous assessment of practical skills, including performance during placement hours, ensures that participants progressively develop and demonstrate the competencies required for certification. Assessment is divided into formative and summative components to provide a balanced evaluation of progress and achievement. Formative assessment accounts for 40% of the final grade and includes class work (15%), homework (15%), and presentations (10%), enabling ongoing feedback and skill development. Summative assessment constitutes 60% of the final grade and consists of a two-hour, in-person examination covering the four language skills: Reading (25%), Writing (25%), Listening (25%), and Speaking (25%). A percentage-based grading system supported by detailed rubrics ensures transparency and fairness in evaluation. Performance levels are defined as follows: 91–100 (Outstanding), 71–90 (Good), 51–70 (Satisfactory), and 0–50 (Unsatisfactory). Students who miss 20% or more of the lessons will not be eligible to receive the certificate.
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Learning Outcomes

  • Develop the four language skills (listening, reading, speaking and writing) up to Level A1 of the CEFR.
  • Develop an understanding of key vocabulary and expressions used in childcare and early education settings.
  • Be able to engage with children effectively, using age-appropriate language and communication techniques.
  • Understand and apply Maltese language concepts in caregiving activities, such as storytelling, play, and instruction.
  • Build confidence in using Maltese to liaise with parents and colleagues regarding children’s progress, well-being, and daily routines.
  • Acquire basic grammatical and syntactical structures of Maltese to improve both verbal and written communication.
  • Understand the role of the Maltese language in Maltese society, its significance in cultural identity, and its status as both an official and national language of Malta.
  • Read and comprehend simple texts in Maltese, including signs, advertisements, and short passages, demonstrating an understanding of basic vocabulary and grammar.
  • Engage in basic conversational exchanges in Maltese, including greetings, introductions, asking and answering simple questions, and expressing simple ideas or needs.
  • Learners will demonstrate an understanding of Maltese cultural references, traditions, and customs, and integrate this knowledge into childcare practices, promoting respect for diversity and inclusivity.
  • Demonstrate the ability to understand spoken Maltese in everyday conversations, as well as in the context of educational activities.
  • Use Maltese language in verbal communication with children, parents, and colleagues, adapting language level to suit different age groups and situations.
  • MODULE 1:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of basic Maltese grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structures.
  • Understand and apply proper Maltese pronunciation, including the sounds that are unique to the language
  • Achieve clarity in speaking and listening comprehension at an introductory level.
  • Develop the ability to read and understand simple texts in Maltese, including signs, advertisements, and short narratives.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the relationship between the language and cultural practices and appreciate Maltese language-related traditions and media.
  • Improve the ability to comprehend spoken Maltese and engage in basic spoken interactions in real-life situations.
  • Recognise and use common Maltese vocabulary, phrases, and expressions.
  • Engage in basic conversations in Maltese, including greetings, introductions, and simple interactions, with children, parents, and colleagues in the childcare settings.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use age-appropriate, clear, and encouraging language when speaking to children, promoting positive communication and emotional well-being.
  • Use vocabulary relevant to childcare, such as words related to daily routines, emotions, body parts, colours, toys, and safety.
  • MODULE 2:
  • Practice writing short sentences and paragraphs in Maltese, adhering to basic grammatical rules.
  • Produce short and simple, coherent written pieces, such as personal messages, descriptions, or emails.
  • Accurately use common prepositions to form meaningful phrases (e.g., in, on, under, etc.).
  • Read simple Maltese texts and identify grammatical structures such as subject-verb agreement, noun-adjective agreement, and proper tense usage.
  • Understand basic grammatical rules, including sentence structure, verb conjugation, noun-adjective agreement, and the use of gender and plural forms.
  • Develop a foundational understanding of Maltese pronunciation, including the alphabet, phonetics, and common pronunciation patterns.
  • Write simple sentences and short paragraphs in Maltese, demonstrating an ability to use correct spelling, grammar, and sentence construction.
  • Negate sentences appropriately using the correct negation particles.
  • Correctly use definite and indefinite articles, ensuring gender and number agreement with nouns.
  • Use adjectives correctly, ensuring they agree in gender and number with the nouns they describe.
  • Form and understand basic questions, using question words (What, Where, When, etc.).
  • Conjugate a basic verb in the present and past tense.
  • Learn fundamental grammatical structures, such as noun-adjective agreement, verb conjugation, and sentence construction.
  • Use basic grammatical rules correctly in speech and writing to form clear and accurate sentences.
  • Provide students with the foundational skills needed to use Maltese in everyday contexts and to appreciate its cultural and linguistic value.
  • Demonstrate an ability to understand basic written Maltese in a variety of everyday contexts.
  • Demonstrate the ability to write using basic vocabulary and grammatical structures learned in the module.
  • Engage in simple conversations in Maltese, asking and answering basic questions.
  • MODULE 3:
  • Learning to communicate clearly, empathetically, and professionally in Maltese with parents and colleagues.
  • Exploring strategies for engaging parents in their child’s learning process and fostering collaboration between home and educational settings.
  • Techniques for handling concerns constructively, ensuring that communication remains positive and productive.
  • Understanding and respecting diverse family backgrounds, beliefs, and practices while communicating in a professional and supportive manner.
  • Working effectively with colleagues in a childcare setting, emphasizing the importance of shared goals, mutual respect, and team support.
  • Writing progress reports and other forms of communication in Maltese, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of parents and colleagues in the context of childcare and early childhood education.
  • Recognise the importance of collaboration between parents, educators, and other professionals in promoting a child’s development.
  • Apply effective communication strategies in the Maltese language when interacting with parents and colleagues, ensuring clarity and respect.
  • Utilise appropriate vocabulary, phrases, and expressions in Maltese to facilitate positive and productive conversations.
  • Reflect on personal practice and interactions with parents and colleagues to identify areas for improvement.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work with parents and colleagues to develop and implement strategies that support a child’s educational, emotional, and social needs.
  • Recognise the role of continuous feedback from parents and colleagues in adapting teaching and care practices.

Course Curriculum

Module 1: Introduction to Maltese for Child Carers (EQF/MQF Level 1, 2ECTS, 50 Total Learning hours)
The aim of this module is all the participants to be presented with the fundamentals of Maltese Language. Learning the first words in Maltese and their meaning which will support the participants to progress further in developing their Maltese language skills.

Module 2: Maltese Language Basic Grammar (EQF/MQF Level 1, 2ECTS, 50 Total Learning hours)
This module introduces students to the fundamentals of Maltese grammar, focusing on the essential components of the language’s structure. It is designed for beginners who wish to build a solid foundation in reading, writing, and speaking Maltese. This module is ideal for anyone starting their journey into the Maltese language, providing them with the essential tools to engage in basic conversations and gain confidence in understanding and using Maltese language.

Module 3: Working with Parents and Colleagues (EQF/MQF Level 1, 1ECTS, 25 Total Learning Hours)
This module focuses on the development of effective communication skills in Maltese for child carer educators, specifically in the context of collaborating with parents and colleagues. The course emphasizes the importance of building positive, professional relationships with both parents and fellow educators to support the holistic development of children. By the end of the module, participants will be equipped with the necessary tools to engage confidently with both parents and colleagues, supporting a positive learning and care environment for children.

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300.00

  • St. Paul’s Institute is accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) as a further education institution since 2024, holding Licence No. 2024-015.
  • This programme is accredited under the category of Further Education by MFHEA at MQF/EQF Level 1 and carrying 5ECTS.
  • Next Intake: Admissions are open throughout the year.
  • Address: 12, Triq l-Isptar Pieta and through digital channels.
  • Langue of Instruction: English/Maltese
  • Duration of Programme: 4 months
  • Mode of Attendance: Part Time
  • Mode of Delivery: Blended Learning (10% face to face & 90% online)
  • Structure of the programme: All the modules are to be followed and taught according to their numerical order.
  • Pass Rates: TBA
  • Registration Method: Contact us on 77754444 or [email protected]
  • Link to Identity Malta Visa Requirements: https://www.identitymalta.com/unit/central-visaunit/

Requirements

  • Age Requirement: Need to be at least 17 years old when the program begins.
  • Police Conduct Record: Have to provide proof of a clean police conduct record to ensure the safety of children under their care.
  • Language Proficiency: Good English skills are essential. They should be comfortable communicating in English to engage effectively with course materials, teachers, and fellow students.
  • Identification Documents: Must have valid identification documents, like an ID card or passport, ready during the application process.
  • Digital Skills: Basic knowledge of using smartphones and computers is important.

Target Audience

  • This course is designed to equip child care professionals with the necessary language skills to effectively communicate with young children, parents, and colleagues in Maltese. The course focuses on enhancing both the spoken and written use of Maltese in various educational and caregiving settings, with a particular emphasis on child development, classroom interactions, and caregiving practices. This course provides an invaluable opportunity for child carers and educators to gain the language skills required to create a positive, supportive, and communicative environment for children. Proficiency in the Maltese language enhances their ability to connect with children and families, contributing to more effective and inclusive care and education.