The School
Welcome to the Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School website.
Our school plays a key role in shaping Further Education in Malta. We offer a wide range of academic programmes at Advanced, Intermediate, and SEC (Ordinary) Level, designed to support students — including adult learners — in their transition to university, vocational pathways, or directly into the workforce.
Over the years, thousands of students have thrived in the supportive and inclusive environment that defines “Higher.” Our ethos is grounded in the belief in second chances and the value of a holistic education that nurtures both academic growth and personal development. Today, as we continue to evolve, we continuously ensure that our courses remain relevant and responsive to future opportunities and challenges.
I invite you to explore this website to learn more about our school community, the courses we offer, and student support services. Beyond academic achievement, Higher is about discovering your potential and preparing for the next stage in your educational journey.
For detailed course information, admissions guidance, and contact options, you should browse our prospectus, available on this website or from school.
Come and join us at Higher!
Anna Spiteri Meilak
Head of School
Giovanni Curmi Higher Secondary School (GCHSS), established in 1984, is a leading post-secondary institution in Malta. It serves students aged 16-18, as well as adult learners, preparing them for tertiary education or employment by offering a broad range of academic courses at Advanced, Intermediate, and Ordinary (SEC) Levels. These courses form part of the Matriculation Certificate required for university entry locally and abroad.
Beyond academics, GCHSS provides holistic education through various non-formal enrichment programmes, some accredited at MQF Level 3, fostering essential life skills. The school welcomes diversity, including international students, and promotes a supportive environment via its Guidance and Counselling Team, which assists with academic choices, personal development, and wellbeing.
GCHSS empowers students through a “second chance” mission, allowing them to enhance qualifications and engage in numerous campus activities and projects. Students also participate in a democratic process by electing a Representative Council that communicates their views and organizes events.
Overall, GCHSS supports a smooth transition from secondary school to higher education and the workforce, nurturing learners for future challenges.
- To provide further education through the comprehensive development of student abilities in a caring and learning environment.
- To offer a second-chance education focused on high academic achievement.
Studying with us has many benefits:
- Individual attention: We offer small class sizes in all subjects, making it easier for our teachers to help and guide you better through your studies.
- A safe and secure environment: Our premises are continuously monitored by a team of dedicated staff members and security personnel.
- Choice of subjects: You are free to choose from a wide variety of academic subjects at Advanced and Intermediate level under different study programmes.
- A nurturing environment: The school employs a dedicated professional Guidance and Counselling Team together with a career advisor available on campus to guide, mentor, and support students on personal and academic matters.
- A prime location: The school premises have many open spaces and enjoy unique views.
- An excellent school-life balance: A normal school day is between 08:15 and 15:05, with a twenty-minute break starting at 11:55. You will have free lessons depending on your timetable but rest assured that you will have ample time to find the right balance between academic and personal activities.
- Innovative learning: We offer a holistic education that aims to balance academic effort with soft skills that you will also have the opportunity to improve, if you wish, through a number of enrichment programmes.
- A thorough assessment policy: You will be regularly assessed in all your subjects with continuous feedback from your teachers.
- A smoother transition to tertiary education: In supporting students in the transition from secondary school to university, the school fosters an environment that promotes student independence in a responsible way.
- A multinational community: The school welcomes international students from within the EU and beyond and provides opportunities to participate in various national and European programmes including Erasmus+.
- An ethos that celebrates diversity and inclusion: We welcome students from all backgrounds and provide opportunities for all, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, culture, or religious belief.
- You have a say: A democratically elected student representative council that is not affiliated with any political party, acts as a bridge between students and the administration.
A full list of all courses and programmes offered by the school, along with relevant details such as course content, duration, and eligibility criteria, can be viewed here.
Higher offers a wide range of student support services designed to enrich the educational experience and promote personal development. These include Guidance & Counselling, where students can seek academic advice and emotional support, and a well-equipped Library that provides resources for learning and research.
We also offer Chaplaincy services, which cater to the spiritual and pastoral needs of our school community, fostering a sense of reflection and care. In addition, the Student Representative Council (SRC) ensures that students have a voice in school affairs, encouraging leadership and active participation.
These services, among others, reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive, and well-rounded environment for all students.
For more information, click here.
At GCHSS, education is more than just academics — it is also about developing well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond school. That is why we offer a variety of enrichment activities and organise events throughout the year, helping students explore their interests, develop new skills, and connect with others in meaningful ways.
GCHSS is accessible by several public transport routes:
🚌 Bus Route 43: A direct service from Valletta to GCHSS, passing through Floriana, Pietà, Msida, Swatar, Birkirkara, and Iklin.
🔗 View Route 43
🚌 Bus Route 207: A direct service from Marsa Park & Ride to GCHSS, with stops at Mater Dei Hospital and the University of Malta.
🔗 View Route 207
🚌 Other Nearby Routes: Several other routes stop within a short walking distance from the school, including stops near Naxxar Parish Church, Labour Avenue, and Lija Cemetery.
🔗 Use the Trip Planner to find the best route for you.
A number of private minivan operators service GCHSS from a number of areas and localities. A list of operators, their contact details and the routes they service can be found here.
Application Details
- Students need an eID, their school leaving certificate and exam results in order to apply.
- Students also require a functioning email address and mobile number.
- Applications will be accepted against a fee of €15. Students already enrolled at GCHSS who wish to continue their studies at the school are exempt from paying the fee.
- International students and Maltese students who studied abroad should refer to page 30 for more information.
- All students who apply and meet the entry requirements for the chosen course or programme will be enrolled.
- GCHSS offers guidance and counselling services to assist students in making the most appropriate course and subject choices. Those who wish to avail themselves of this service are kindly requested to contact the Guidance and Counselling Team to make an appointment.