Student Services
The GCHSS library is a welcoming and supportive space designed for reading, studying, and independent learning. A wide range of resources is available for use by the school community, catering to different interests and academic needs. Apart from the Reference and Melitensia sections, students and staff can access a broad selection of fiction and non-fiction books available for loan.
The library serves as a vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and collaboration, providing an environment where students can develop research skills, discover new interests, and enjoy reading in a comfortable setting. Throughout the year, various educational and cultural activities are organised, while regular themed book displays help promote literacy and the joy of reading.
The library is located at Level 0 in the New Block and is open every school day from 08:15 to 14:30.
GCHSS aims to provide a holistic education that embraces spiritual development. The GCHSS Chaplaincy offers spiritual support and companionship to all members of the school community, including students, teaching and administrative staff, and other personnel on campus.
Varied activities provide an opportunity for students to meet and connect with one another, deepening their understanding and practice of the Faith. The Chaplaincy firmly believes in inclusivity and togetherness; students from diverse religious backgrounds are welcome to join and participate in the ongoing activities in a spirit of respect and support for all members of the school community.
Holy Mass is celebrated in the Chapel located opposite the New Block. At the start of the scholastic year, at Christmas, and on the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, the Eucharist is celebrated in the school hall. An on-site chaplain offers spiritual guidance and the sacrament of confession.
The Chaplaincy also provides a space for students to meet and socialise between lessons and during free time.
The Guidance and Counselling Team includes a warranted counsellor and guidance teachers, working together to support students academically and personally. The counsellor offers broader mental health and well-being support, including crisis intervention in a confidential environment, while guidance teachers focus on career guidance, relationship issues, and emotional support. In a post-secondary school setting, guidance and counselling play a crucial role in supporting students through the challenges and transitions they face in life and in their academic journey.
Support is various, and includes:
- Academic Challenges: Guidance teachers can help students cope with the difficult circumstances they may face in their studies.
- Career Guidance: Some students join post-secondary education with uncertainties about their career paths. Guidance teachers can help students explore their interests, skills, and values, enabling them to make informed decisions about their academic and professional pursuits.
- Transition and Adjustment: The transition from secondary school to sixth form can be challenging. Students may require assistance to adapt to a new environment, manage increased academic expectations, and cope with stress.
- Personal and Emotional Support: Guidance teachers are often the first point of call when students require help. They are trained to assist students directly and to refer them to the counsellor when more specialised help is needed.
- Counselling: Students seek help for issues, such as anxiety, depression, other mental health issues, eating disorders, relationship problems, dysfunctional family dynamics, low self-esteem, attachment and bereavement issues. The counsellor collaborates with other professionals to support students’ well-being.
- Crisis Intervention: Students may face crises, including family emergencies, trauma, or sudden personal challenges. The team is trained to provide immediate intervention during such crises, supporting students in distress.
What is discussed in helping skills or counselling sessions remains strictly confidential, unless there is a perceived risk to the individual or to others.
The Student Representative Council (SRC) represents the interests of students and provides opportunities for active participation in the daily life of the school. It advocates for higher standards in school services while working to enhance the school’s recognition at a national level. The SRC also encourages students to become responsible leaders within the community and to develop a strong commitment to active citizenship, thereby promoting a holistic approach to education.
The SRC promotes democratic participation within the school. The council is independent and not affiliated with any organisation, with all members elected as independent candidates. Elections are held at the beginning of each scholastic year, and all registered students are eligible both to contest the elections and to vote.
Throughout the year, the SRC organises a variety of activities, including fundraising events for charity, a Valentine’s Day themed event, a crêpe day, and the school prom at the end of the scholastic year. Council members also take part in seminars organised by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ in preparation for participation in events hosted by the agency.
Student Voice Initiative Award: Run by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, the Student Voice Initiative Award takes place following the election of the Student Representative Council. The elected council members participate in this initiative, which is designed to encourage schools to involve students more actively and invest in their communities by supporting student councils in attaining Democracy Awards for their schools. The initiative aims to strengthen the role of student councils as advocates for their peers. It encourages student representatives to listen actively to students’ needs, represent their interests, and create meaningful opportunities for engagement within the school community.
The Department of Physical Education offers students access to two gymnasia used for volleyball, basketball, badminton, handball, rounders, and dodgeball.
The school premises include a seven-a-side football pitch, an outdoor basketball court, a table tennis room, and a fitness room equipped with weights and gym equipment. These facilities are available for students to use during breaks or for free lessons. During break time, the department organises leagues for football, basketball, volleyball, and table tennis. It is also possible to utilise the facilities for dance practice.
Students interested in sports and fitness should contact the teachers in the Department of Physical Education.
The school canteen provides students with a convenient place to buy food and drinks during breaks. It also serves as a social space where students can relax and interact with friends. In addition, water stations are located across the school, ensuring students have easy access to drinking water during the day.
Located near the canteen, the school stationery supplies most of the essential items students and staff need. It also offers photocopying services and printing facilities, allowing students to print documents using flash drives or email.
Security staff are stationed near the school gate, where they check student identification cards and monitor entry and exit from the premises. Their presence helps prevent unauthorised access and maintain a safe and secure environment for students and staff.
