Archives

Introduction to Communal Discernment

15/05/2026   Various

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/

This course introduces the principles and practices of communal discernment in the Catholic tradition. Participants will explore how communities can prayerfully seek God’s will together, grounded in Scripture, Church teaching, and Ignatian spirituality. Through reflection, dialogue, and practical exercises, you will learn to integrate spiritual listening and mission-oriented decision-making in your context.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta.

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
7th October 2026Examples of Communal Discernment in the Acts of the Apostles and in the Ignatian Tradition
14th October 2026Principles of Communal Discernment
21st October 2026Steps in the Process
28th October 2026Ignatian Tools: Consolation, Desolation & Group Discernment
4th November 2026Challenges and Pitfalls
11th November 2026Application and Integration

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from a short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and an assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

From Assisi to the World: The Expanding Franciscan Vision

15/05/2026   Various

This course offers participants an opportunity to grow more deeply in the spirit of St Francis of Assisi and to discover how his Gospel vision can shape daily Christian life today. Through prayerful reflection, storytelling, and practical examples, the course explores Franciscan themes such as care for creation, peace and dialogue, love of the Cross, joy in hardship, accompaniment in illness, and humble service. Drawing from the wisdom of St Francis and the wider Franciscan family, participants are invited to reflect on their personal journey of faith and to live more fully the Franciscan values of simplicity, fraternity, compassion, and hope in the 21st century.

  • Franciscan Collaborators
  • People interested to explore and deepen their knowledge in Franciscan Spirituality

Target Audience Age: 18+

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateTimeLocationSession
* 10th October 20269:30am – 12:30pmCapuchins’ Convent,KalkaraOpening Seminar – The Cosmic Vision of St Francis
14th October 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaFranciscan Spirituality and Interreligious Dialogue
21st October 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaThe Franciscan Intellectual Tradition
28th October 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaThe “Franciscan Method” of Reading Scripture
* 7th November 20269:30am – 12:30pmPoor Clares, St. Julian’sSeminar: Franciscan Women Beyond Clare
11th November 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaSt Francis and the Crucifix
18th November 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaSt Francis and True Joy
25th November 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaFranciscan accompaniment in sickness
2nd December 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaLeading the Franciscan Way: Humility, Service, and Discernment
9th December 20266:00pm – 8:00pmTa’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, MostaLiving Franciscan Spirituality in the 21st Century
* 16th January 20279:00am – 12:30pmBurmarradClosing Seminar 

* These sessions are to be attended in person

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from a short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and an assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Faith Foundations for Catechists

14/05/2026

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/

This course offers a foundational introduction to the core elements of the Catholic faith. It explores the sources of faith through Revelation, Scripture, and anthropology, leading to a deeper understanding of God revealed in Jesus Christ as the Triune God. Participants are guided through the meaning of the Church, the Sacraments, and the Liturgy as central to Christian life. The course also introduces the moral and social teachings of the Church, helping learners connect faith with daily living and responsible action in society.

Catechists

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Saturdays from 9:30am to 12:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta.

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
10th October 2026The Main sources
14th November 2026The Sacred Scriptures
16th January 2027God revealed in Jesus Christ
13th February 2027The Church as builder of the Kingdom of God
13th March 2027The meaning of the Sacraments and the Liturgy
10th April 2027The Moral and Social Teaching of the Church

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from a short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and an assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Mark’s Good News

14/05/2026

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This five‑session course offers a concise yet enriching journey through the Gospel of Mark, guiding participants from an introductory overview into four key themes that shape Mark’s unique portrait of Jesus. Together, we explore the power of Jesus’ miracles, the depth and challenge of his parables, the demanding but transformative call to discipleship, and the stark, compelling drama of the Passion narrative. The course invites learners to engage both heart and mind as they encounter Mark’s urgent proclamation of the Good News.

This course is suitable for pastoral workers helping in the Ministry of the Word. It is also ideal for people who would like to delve deeper in knowledge about the Gospel of Mark and all Christians who would like to continue to invest in their relationship with God

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta.

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
14th October 2026Introduction to the Gospel
21st October 2026Miracles in Mark
28th October 2026Parables in Mark
4th November 2026Discipleship in Mark
11th November 2026The Passion in Mark

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from a short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and an assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

A Merciful Heart and Mind (in a Parish context)

12/05/2026

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This course introduces diaconia as the Church’s mission of service within parish life. Participants will explore practical and concrete ways of responding to human need through charity, solidarity, and pastoral care. The course equips participants with tools to plan, coordinate, and sustain parish-based diaconia rooted in Gospel values and lived faith.

All interested but especially Diakonia Pastoral Workers in a parish context.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

Students can join online via Zoom

DateSession
2nd September 2026Diaconia as one of the four pillars of the Catholic faith
9th September 2026Diaconia as an integral part of the life of the Saints 
16th September 2026Hand of Mercy: examples of diaconia in the Church in Malta
23rd SeptemberBoundaries and Mercy in Real Life
30th September6 – 7pm – Co-Responsibility and Working Together in the Parish
7 – 8pm – Building a merciful parish. 

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from a short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and an assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Running, Returning, Renewed: A Journey Through Jonah

12/05/2026

This verse‑by‑verse study of the Book of Jonah examines the text in its historical, literary, and theological context. Participants will analyse Jonah’s call, his resistance, the narrative’s use of irony, the response of the sailors and the Ninevites, and God’s final challenge to the prophet. The course also considers how Jonah is referenced in the New Testament to understand how early Christian interpretation engaged with this story. The aim is to provide a clear, structured exploration of the book’s themes, its portrayal of divine mercy and human reluctance, and its ongoing relevance for readers today.

This course is suitable for pastoral workers helping in the Ministry of the Word. It is also ideal for people who would like to delve deeper in knowledge about Jonah and all Christians who would like to continue to invest in their relationship with God.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

Students can join online via Zoom

DateSession
8th July 2026Jonah 1-2
15th July 2026Jonah 3-4
22nd July 2026Jonah in the NT

This course has three exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Attendance

The student will receive a Certificate of Attendance when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.

2. Certificate of Participation

The student will receive a Certificate of Participation when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course and pass from a short multiple-choice exam.

3. Certificate of Achievement

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hour and pass from a short multiple-choice exam and an assignment.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly, in use of office suites and internet access.

Introduction to Digital Presence

12/12/2025

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

In a world shaped by clicks, screens, and shared stories, the digital landscape offers a vast frontier for evangelization, community-building, and meaningful dialogue. This course provides a structured practical pathway for pastoral workers and volunteers who will be guided through the key areas of the digital presence including understanding digital culture, the language used on social media, content creation, and building a sustainable web presence. This course is intended not only to pastoral workers and parish volunteers, but also to members of ecclesial entities and groups who are interested in digital ministry or currently contribute to their online presence—whether through websites or social media.

Pastoral workers and volunteers – not just the ones in parishes but other ecclesial entities and groups – who are interested in the subject or are involved in the entity’s digital presence (web or social).

Target Audience Age: 18+

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
TBCUnderstanding the digital space and the importance of the Church’s digital presence
TBCUnderstanding the digital language, audiences and how to engage with them.
TBCYour voice on Social Media
TBCContent Creation – Part 1
TBCContent Creation – Part 2
TBCWeb Presence
TBCUnderstanding Reach and Engagement
TBCChurch structures and resources available for Church Entities

This course has three exit certificate options:

  1. Certificate of Attendance

To obtain a Certificate of Attendance, students must attend 80% of course contact hours. 

2. Certificate of Participation

To obtain a Certificate of Participation, students must attend 80% of course contact hours and pass from a short online assessment.

3. Certificate of Achievement 

To obtain a Certificate of Achievement, students must: 

  • attend 80% of course contact hours;  
  • pass from short online assessment
  • pass from a project

Language: Participants must have a primary level understanding of Maltese and English.

Digital: Participants must know how to access the internet and use office suites.

Postgraduate Certificate in Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in Schools

05/08/2025
MQF

The Pastoral Formation Institute is licensed by MFHEA
(Licence #: 2013-FHI-028) as a Further and Higher Educational Institute. The Postgraduate Certificate in Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in Schools is accredited at EQF/MQF Level 7, as a Higher Education Programme.

Students who successfully complete this course may apply for the Get Qualified Scheme which will enable them to benefit from a tax credit of 70% of the costs incurred (i.e. €595.00 will be refunded for this course).

Schools provide a holistic environment that fosters the pursuit of truth, the development of healthy critical thinking, and the creation of spaces where individuals of diverse faiths can question, reflect, pray, and build communities of mutual acceptance. In this challenging yet enriching context, the balance of faith and reason, supported by pastoral and biblical theology, offers a solid foundation for School Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy.

Moreover, Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in schools serve as bridges connecting faith with culture, and spirituality with the technocratic realm of contemporary society. The promotion of this mindset and its practical application are strengthened by empowering school leadership and pedagogy to embrace and uphold essential values, particularly Gospel values, which are crucial in our empirically driven, digitally oriented society.

This will be achieved through:

  • A deeper introduction to and study of the bridge between faith and reason, biblical and pastoral theology (Modules 1 and 2).
  • An in-depth understanding of the role of Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in a pluralistic school environment through multiculturalism, inter-religious dialogue, and engagement with the technocratic realm (Module 3).
  • Insights from Pastoral Theology on building communion between human beings and with God (Module 3).
  • An appreciation for the need for spiritual accompaniment and the stages of spiritual development in young people, youth, and adults (Module 4).
  • The development of practical methods for designing, leading, and evaluating liturgical and religious activities (Module 4).
  • Professional ministry that enriches the school ethos, leadership, and pedagogy with values that enable transformative experiences, thus inviting course participants to evaluate and integrate the vision and values proclaimed (Module 5).

This course is open to all eligible individuals involved in the educational sector or with an expressed interest in working in this area.

Lectures will take place on Wednesdays, starting from 30 September 2026, from 3:30pm to 6:30pm at the Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre in Mosta.

You can access the full course calendar via the following link:

https://pfi.edu.mt/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Pastoral-Care-Level-7-Timetable.pdf

CodeMode of DeliveryValue
PFE7001In-person (Face-to-Face Learning)6 ECTS

Through this module participants will be able to explore the important logical and authoritative relationship between faith, revelation and reason all of which are the principal sources of Catholic living.

CodeMode of DeliveryValue
PFE7002In-person (Face-to-Face Learning)6 ECTS

Through this module participants will be able to: Explore the application of Biblical theology within the framework of school pastoral care and within the School Chaplaincy setting. It aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of how Biblical Narratives can inform and enhance pastoral care practices within educational settings. The module covers theological concepts, pastoral strategies and practical skills necessary for effective chaplaincy work in schools, focusing on the psychological, emotional, spiritual, and ethical development of students.

CodeMode of DeliveryValue
PFE7003In-person (Face-to-Face Learning)6 ECTS

Our increasingly multicultural society and schools often lead to cultural misunderstandings and xenophobic sentiments due to a lack of knowledge. Schools, as microcosms of society, introduce students to diverse backgrounds, and educators in Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy have an ethical duty to create an inclusive environment that respects and values every individual, celebrates diversity, and fosters unity.

The rise in multiculturalism in schools presents a new challenge for educators, necessitating better preparation to fulfil their transformative role in society and reach out to all students, regardless of their creed, culture, or nationality. This module aims to inform and equip educators to create inclusive school environments that respect all students’ diverse backgrounds. Participants in this module will gain an understanding of how technology influences young people’s psychological and spiritual self-perception, interactions, and worldview. They will examine the impact of technological advancements, such as digital communication, social media, gamified environments, AI, and augmented realities, on youth. By analysing these trends, educators will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities that technology presents for young people. The module will also teach participants to critically analyse technology’s effects on culture, particularly youth culture, through the media ecology school and explore the technocratic paradigm’s impact on science, faith, and society using the theory of planned behaviour.

CodeMode of DeliveryValue
PFE7004In-person (Face-to-Face Learning)6 ECTS

Living and mentoring through the right knowledge and skills the school ethos is a crucial aspect of school life for the benefit of the whole school community.  The ethos gives the community the impetus it needs to promote a positive character formation. Within the framework of schools, the inspirational shepherding figure of Christ enables the school community to recognize each person’s unique gifts and encourages their personal development. The full collaboration and cooperation between the school community and the various interdisciplinary teams amongst them the School Pastoral Care, are necessary transformative mediums for the students’ holistic character development and formation as they can grow into principled, responsible individuals.

CodeMode of DeliveryValue
PFE7005In-person (Face-to-Face Learning)3 ECTS

The seminar (weekend-based) at the  beginning of the course is crucial, because, participants are  introduced to each other, the topics  chosen, revolve mainly  around the need to  be aware  of oneself  holistically within the venture of School Pastoral Care and  Chaplaincy, the need  of self-care, the need to equip oneself  well with resilience,  the importance of  keeping the goals of Pastoral Care  and Chaplaincy as the centre and  sustenance of the whole mission in the school context.

CodeMode of DeliveryValue
PFE7006In-person (Face-to-Face Learning)3 ECTS

The spiritual reflection day (based on a weekend) is a valuable opportunity for all participants to  get in touch with the sacred within them, to evaluate  their consciousness of their impact  within the mission of School Pastoral Care  and Chaplaincy  through the use of various evaluation resources, and  to   share with the rest of the group their spiritual experiences.

 

This course has one exit certificate option:

Certificate of Achievement

To receive a Certificate of Achievement, the student must:

  • Attend a minimum of 80% of all contact hours for this course.
  • Complete and pass assessments for all modules.
LO1 – Competence

At the end of the course, participants will: • Critically engage with and articulate the ethical and philosophical dimensions of values upheld by Christian educators and students, as well as those from diverse belief systems or secular perspectives. Participants will develop a nuanced understanding of pluralism and cultivate dispositions of empathy, respect, and inclusivity, essential for fostering constructive dialogue and ethical conduct within contemporary, post-Christian educational contexts. • Demonstrate the capacity to communicate theological insights and embody the presence of the living God through interpretive engagement with Biblical narratives. This will support inclusive spiritual formation and affirm the inherent dignity of all individuals, irrespective of belief, gender, cultural background, or sexual orientation. • Confidently facilitate spiritual accompaniment for educators and students across a spectrum of faith traditions and secular worldviews. This will be achieved through the integration of theoretical knowledge, practical competencies, experiential learning, and collaborative reflection. • Apply advanced pedagogical strategies to integrate digital technologies in a discerning and ethically responsible manner. This will enhance their effectiveness in evangelization, educational leadership, and interpersonal engagement, particularly in relation to the evolving needs and characteristics of Generation Z and Generation Alpha.

LO2 – Knowledge

At the end of the module/unit the learner will be able to: – Critically define and evaluate the concept of Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy within educational settings, articulating its significance and multifaceted role in contemporary schooling. – Analyse the interplay between faith and reason, and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of biblical and pastoral theology as foundational frameworks for spiritual and educational engagement. – Interpret and contextualize selected theological texts—including Scripture, Church teachings, and writings of the early Church Fathers—regarding the relationship between the Kingdom of God and the universal communion of humanity. – Demonstrate an informed understanding of strategies for cultivating inclusive communities that embrace cultural and religious diversity within educational environments. – Evaluate the principles and practices of value-based leadership, ethos, and pedagogy, and their impact on school culture and student development. – Critically assess the challenges and opportunities of living in a technocratic society, and propose balanced approaches to integrating technology with spirituality and authentic human experience. – Articulate a developmental understanding of spirituality across life stages—children (4–10 years), adolescents (11–16 years), and adults (18+)—and its implications for pastoral care and educational practice. – Design and implement enriched religious and liturgical experiences using creative artistic expressions, media, and digital technologies, tailored to the spiritual and developmental needs of children, youth, and adults within the context of school-based pastoral care and chaplaincy. – Compare and critique various leadership models relevant to Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in Schools, identifying their theoretical foundations and practical applications.

LO3 – Skill

Critically evaluate and facilitate meaningful dialogue between diverse faith traditions and cultural contexts within the framework of Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in Schools, promoting mutual understanding, inclusive spiritual engagement, and ethical responsiveness. • Illustrate the integrative vision offered by faith and reason, alongside Biblical and Pastoral Theology, in shaping both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of school-based pastoral care. • Articulate and respond to the complexities of multiculturalism, inter-religious dialogue, and the digital realities of contemporary society, demonstrating theological insight and pastoral sensitivity. • Develop and apply advanced communication and dialogue skills tailored to spiritual activities with youth (11–16 years) and adults (18+), while employing age-appropriate strategies for engaging with children (4–10 years). These skills will be deepened through the cultivation of spiritual accompaniment practices. • Appraise and integrate diverse artistic expressions, media, and digital technologies in the design and facilitation of religious and liturgical celebrations, ensuring relevance, creativity, and accessibility across age groups. To support these outcomes, learners will cultivate a range of advanced professional and reflective competencies, including: • Reflective skills – enabling deep personal and professional introspection, fostering spiritual discernment and ethical awareness. • Analytical, critical, and synthetic thinking – to assess complex pastoral scenarios, integrate theological and educational insights, and formulate coherent, context-sensitive responses. • Leadership and collaborative skills – to promote inclusive, value-driven school cultures and lead initiatives that support spiritual and emotional well-being. • Interpersonal and listening skills – to build trust, offer compassionate support, and respond empathetically to the diverse needs of students and staff. • Planning and implementation skills – to design, execute, and evaluate effective pastoral programmes and chaplaincy activities within educational settings.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly in the use of office suites and of the internet, to both of which they must have access.

Previous courses / training:

– Minimum Level 6 or equivalent as determined by the Course Director Or

Students who have fully completed and passed the Award in Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy in Schools (MQF Level 6) and expressed interest in Pastoral Care in Schools.

For courses offered in face-to-face learning and blended learning, it is required that applicants reside in the Maltese islands and use their Maltese address in their application form.

For further information regarding visa requirements, see Identity Malta’s VISA requirements for third-country nationals.

Accompanying Couples towards Marriage

14/07/2025

This course is eligible for the Get Formed! scheme, allowing students to reclaim 70% of their course fees upon completion. For more information, visit: https://pfi.edu.mt/get-formed/.

This course equips experienced and committed married couples to serve as mentors and facilitators in Catholic marriage preparation programs. Through practical and interactive training, participants will strengthen their skills in effective communication, group dynamics, and adult learning facilitation. The course also explores essential dimensions of marriage—including spirituality, sexuality, responsible parenthood, and family life—grounded in Church teaching. Couples will be empowered to accompany, support, and inspire young, engaged couples as they prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage. Ideal for those called to accompany others on the journey to the Sacrament of Marriage.

This course is intended for married couples who are preparing to serve, as mentors and facilitators in marriage preparation programs within parish and diocesan settings.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays from 6:30pm to 9:00pm at Dar Nazaret, Ħal Tarxien.

Date and timeSession
9th October 2026Introduction to the course and manual
Assignment explanation
16th October 2026Group dynamics and effective communication
23rd October 2026Towards a Marriage that Gives Life 
Ethical Considerations 
30th October 2026God and I
The Sacrament of Marriage
6th November 2026Effective Communication 
Conflict Management 
13th November 2026Towards a Healthy Sexual Life
Planning the family together
27th November 2026Assessment – Presentations
Following monthsCouple shadowing & reflective journal writing

This course has one exit certificate options:

1. Certificate of Achievement

The student will receive a Certificate of Achievement when attending a minimum of 80% of all contact hours in addition to meeting the attendance criteria above and they successfully complete all assessments, which are a presentation and a reflective journal.

Language: Applicants must be proficient in both Maltese and English.

Digital: Applicants must be digitally literate particularly in the use of office suites and of the internet, to both of which they must have access.

Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

07/04/2025
MQF

The Pastoral Formation Institute is licensed by MFHEA
(Licence #: 2013-FHI-028) as a Further and Higher Educational Institute. The Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults is accredited at EQF/MQF Level 4, as a Higher Education Programme.

The short course – Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults will assist staff and volunteers in recognising the key principles of safeguarding and in creating a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Employees and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults and handling their data.

October – November 2026
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-person17th October 2026
from 9:00am to 12:00pm		Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta
Recorded Material17th – 31st October 2026Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online Exam17th October 202631st October 2026
Reflective Journal17th October 202617th November 2026
LO1 – Competence

By the end of the programme, the learner will have acquired a good enough combination of the below mentioned skills and knowledge, so much so that s/he will be competent enough to provide an emotionally, mentally and spiritually safe working environment for children and/or vulnerable adults; can recognise and deal with different signs of abuse; can comply with national laws, policies and procedures concerning safeguarding and can refer and collaborate with professionals in the field to ensure that the person in question is not being abused.

LO2 – Knowledge

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) identify the principles of safeguarding; b) familiarise himself/herself with safeguarding policies; c) identify signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; d) know the disclosures of abuse; e) know the legal obligations related to the Protection of Minors; (Registration) Act (2011) and the Minor Protection (Alternative Care) Act (2019).

LO3 – Skill

By the end of the programme, the learner will be able to: a) practice the principles of safeguarding; b) practice professional boundaries; c) use a standard response to a disclosure of abuse; d) be able to recognise signs and symptoms of different types of abuse; e) identify the actions to take if you have a concern and also identify who can help;

This course has three exit certificate options: 

  1. Certificate of Attendance

A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • do not submit any course assessments.
  1. Certificate of Participation 

A Certificate of Participation will be rewarded to students who:

  • attend the in‑person session,
  • watch all the recorded material, and
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  1. Certificate of Achievement 

A Certificate of Achievement is awarded to students who successfully concluded the course, that is;

  • attending the in‑person lecture and completing all online videos,
  • submit and pass a short online multiple‑choice examination
  • submit and pass a short reflective journal.

Students who obtain the Certificate of Achievement will also receive an MFHEA‑recognised certificate and transcript at MQF Level 4 (1 ECTS credit).

Click here to view the PFI’s Grading System

Awarding Body: Pastoral Formation Institute

There are no qualifications required for this course. The only requisites are:

Language competences: The student is required to have an end of primary school level of understanding of Maltese and English.

Digital competences: The student is required to be digitally literate, including knowing how to access the internet and use a word processor.

This course is mandatory requirement for all staff and volunteers working for the Church in Malta and part of the Safeguarding Clearance Certificate.