A Brief History of English in Malta

Is English Spoken in Malta? A Guide to Malta’s Linguistic Landscape

Malta, a charming Mediterranean treasure located south of Sicily, has a rich history and a unique linguistic landscape. The island is home to a vibrant culture influenced by its Mediterranean location and historical ties to the UK.

One common question that curious travellers ask is whether English is spoken in Malta. Due to Malta’s historical ties to the UK, English has been an official language since the British colonial era. Today, English is widely spoken in Malta and is the main language of instruction in schools. Most locals are bilingual and can speak both Maltese and English fluently.

In this blog post, we will delve into Malta’s historical connections to the United Kingdom, its official status as an English-speaking country, the widespread use of English in everyday life, the lively expat community and the resulting booming English as a second language school industry.

Malta as a Former British Colony

Malta’s close ties with the United Kingdom have led to the adoption of English as a language, impacting the country’s culture and way of life. English is widely spoken and used in various aspects of Maltese society, including education, law, and tourism. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll find that English is an essential language to know when in Malta.

Malta was a British colony for a significant portion of its history. 1814, Malta became a part of the British Empire as per the Treaty of Paris. The colonial period lasted until 1964, which resulted in the British influence being deeply ingrained into the Maltese culture, language, and governance. Malta was a strategic naval base during this period, and its people adopted many British customs and practices. English was introduced alongside Maltese as an official language, reflecting the administrative and educational systems implemented by the British.

Malta gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1964, yet English continues to be widely spoken. Today, English remains one of Malta’s official languages alongside Maltese, a testament to the enduring connection between the two nations.

English as an Official Language in Malta

Malta is a fantastic place to live! The country officially recognizes two languages – Maltese and English. This means you’ll come across friendly and welcoming bilingual locals everywhere you go who can fluently speak both languages, making communication a breeze.

Whether it’s government documents or public signage, you’ll find both languages being used. This thriving linguistic duality has also attracted many expats to Malta who can quickly adapt to the culture and comfortably live and work there. As Malta is a part of the European Union, expats can benefit from additional resources and support, making it even easier to settle in.

Malta’s education system strongly emphasizes the development of English language proficiency among its students. English is not only taught as a subject but also used as the primary medium of instruction at all levels of schooling. So, you can rest assured that the younger generation in Malta has achieved a high level of English proficiency.

Plus, numerous language schools and courses are available to learners of all ages, making it easy for expat residents and newcomers to improve their language skills. So, come and explore Malta for yourself! You’ll love it!

English and its Use in Daily Life Today

English plays a vital and multifaceted role in the daily lives of the Maltese population. As one of Malta’s official languages, alongside Maltese, it extends its influence across various sectors.

In education, English is the primary medium of instruction, giving students access to an extensive array of international educational resources. Plus, in the world of business and commerce, English is essential for written and spoken communication in international and local operations, making it necessary for professionals working in Malta to have a good command of the language. You’ll also find English widely used in transportation services and retail environments, making it easy for tourists and locals to get around the island easily.

Malta’s tourism industry is booming, and it’s all thanks to English, which bridges the gap between locals and international visitors. This has led to a cultural exchange that benefits both sides. English is widely spoken among the younger generation in urban areas, making social interactions easy and fun. Many Maltese people are bilingual, seamlessly switching between English and Maltese in daily conversations.

These examples illustrate how English is deeply integrated into the fabric of Maltese society, catering to various aspects of daily life and reflecting the country’s global outlook and multicultural identity.

All in all, English is deeply integrated into the fabric of Maltese society, catering to various aspects of daily life and reflecting the country’s global outlook and multicultural identity.

Why Malta is a Great Destination to Learn English

Malta has long been known as a renowned location for learning English in a language school setting. The ELT Council and FELTOM, the Federation of English Language Teaching Organizations in Malta, ensure that quality education is a top priority.

One of the most compelling reasons to choose Malta for English language learning is its unparalleled cultural immersion. Malta’s official language is English, and locals are welcoming and friendly. This environment enables you to practice your English in real-life situations, whether ordering pastizzi at a local bakery or exploring the bustling markets of Valletta. Moreover, Malta’s rich history and stunning landscapes offer language learners many opportunities to practice English while exploring the country. From the ancient city of Mdina to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagune, you can enhance your language skills while experiencing the beauty of this Mediterranean gem.

In conclusion, Malta’s linguistic landscape is a testament to its rich history and enduring ties to the United Kingdom. With English as one of its official languages, Malta is a remarkable destination for language learners. Malta’s historical connection with the UK, the prevalence of English in daily life, and the focus on English language proficiency in the education system make Malta an excellent place to learn and improve your English skills. Furthermore, the cultural immersion and welcoming locals provide an ideal environment for practising English in real-life situations. Therefore, Malta should be at the top of your list if you’re considering a destination for English language learning.

Learning English at BELS Malta English Schools

At BELS, we are proud to offer two exceptional language schools: BELS Malta and BELS Gozo, which are widely recognized as the top English language schools on the island.

With over 25 years of experience, our schools have unrivalled expertise and industry accreditations. We also provide a unique opportunity to learn English on both Malta and Gozo while continuing the same course, as we are the only school to have a centre on both islands.

Each school has its unique environment and age range of students and appeals to a specific type of traveller. Additionally, you can enjoy a different atmosphere if you wish to return for a second or third time (as many of our students do).

At BELS Malta, you can learn in a lively seaside town that balances tranquillity and activity. It is situated on the main island, with easy access to all parts of Malta, yet offers a peaceful location devoid of traffic and overcrowding. BELS Malta is an excellent blend of history, local culture, nature, and entertainment venues.

At BELS Gozo, you can learn in a rural setting on a smaller, less developed island with a strong sense of community, delicious food, and a relaxed pace of life. Here, you can combine your learning experience with a refreshing break on a culturally charming and peaceful Mediterranean island. At the same time, you can take a quick 45-minute ferry ride to Valletta to experience more of Malta whenever you want.

Which BELS English language school is ideal for you? Email us at [email protected] to schedule a call with a team member and plan your course and trip to Malta and Gozo.