According to the Union of Professional Educators (UPE) “English Language Schools are in the midst of a crisis. They presently find it difficult, if not impossible, to source qualified teachers.”

In a statement, the union said that the situation can be put down to two factors. “The first being that many qualified English language teachers left the industry during the Covid-19 pandemic and secondly unstable and unreliable working conditions found in many schools precipitated a mass exodus.”

The UPE said that it is the only union that has representation in English language schools. “The Union has highlighted in the past that precarious working conditions as well as zero contracts would lead eventually to the collapse of this sector.”

It argued that, “Malta is on the cusp of losing one of its major tourist revenues. And the finger has to pointed at the language school providers who have shown and still show unacceptable greed.”

“We can only hope that common sense and long-term vision will prevail. After two difficult years and a steady recovery this summer, the industry leaders should make a self-conscious decision to review their strategy when it comes to the workforce and working conditions,” the union said.

The UPE concluded by saying that, “an increase in salaries and improved working contracts to retain qualified teachers are priorities in sustaining the sector. After all, thanks to the teaching staff, Malta’s tourism industry has benefited substantially over the years. It is time that this is financially recognised.”

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