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Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults for Parroċċa tan-Naxxar

29/05/2026   Parroċċa tan-Naxxar
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.

Parroċċa tan-Naxxar parishioners

October – November 2026
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-personMonday 19th October 2026
from 6:30pm to 8:00pm		Parroċċa tan-Naxxar
In-personMonday 26th October 2026
from 6:30pm to 8:00pm		Parroċċa tan-Naxxar
Recorded MaterialSaturday 14th November 2026 – Saturday 28th November 2026Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online ExamMonday 26th October 2026Monday 9th November 2026
Reflective JournalMonday 26th October 2026Thursday 26th 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.

Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults for Parroċċa tal-Marsa – Marija Reġina

26/05/2026   Parroċċa tal-Marsa - Marija Reġina, Marsa
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.

Parroċċa tal-Marsa – Marija Reġina parishioners

January – February 2027
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-personSaturday 9th January 2027
from 9:30am to 12:30pm		Parroċċa tal-Marsa – Marija Reġina
Recorded MaterialSaturday 9th January 2027 – Saturday 23rd January 2027Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online ExamSaturday 9th January 2027Saturday 23rd January 2027
Reflective JournalSaturday 9th January 2027Saturday 9th February 2027
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.

Award in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults for San Anton

26/05/2026   San Anton School, Imġarr
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.

San Anton school

July – August 2026
Lecturing Period
Mode of DeliveryDate & TimeVenue
In-personThursday 2nd July 2026
from 9:00am to 12:00pm		San Anton School
Recorded MaterialThursday 2nd July 2026 – 16th July 2026Recorded videos will be accessible online via our Moodle VLE platform
Assessment Period
AssessmentAvailable FromDue by
Short Multiple-Choice Online ExamThursday 2nd July 2026Thursday 16th July 2026
Reflective JournalThursday 2nd July 2026Sunday 2nd August 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.

Serving at the Lord’s Table – Spirituality, Liturgy and Leadership

26/05/2026

This course is designed for adults who are responsible for guiding, training, and accompanying altar servers within the parish. It aims to deepen their understanding of the important role they play in forming young people who serve at the altar and participate closely in the Church’s liturgy.

The programme offers both spiritual and practical formation. Participants will reflect on the meaning of liturgical service, the importance of reverence and order in the sanctuary, and the responsibility of fostering a spirit of prayer, discipline, and commitment among altar servers. Attention will also be given to effective methods of training, leadership, communication, and age-appropriate formation.

Leaders, trainers, parish helpers who have been assigned by the parish priest to take care of altar servers 

Target Audience Age: 16+

The course will take place on Wednesdays between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

DateSession
7th April 2027More Than Supervision: The Vocation of the Parish Helper with Servers
14th April 2027The Spiritual World of the Child: How Children Experience God
21st April 2027Learning from Children: What Their Faith Teaches Adult Believers
28th April 2027Fostering a spirit of Prayer and Reverence in the Servers
5th May 2027Nurturing Vocations for Priestly, Religious or Married life among the Servers
12th May 2027Ideas on Formation and Activities for Altar Servers

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.

Stories That Shape Us: Psychological Insights from the Bible

25/05/2026

This six‑session course explores key psychological experiences through biblical figures from the Old and New Testaments. Participants examine themes such as facing uncertainty, forming identity, managing emotional exhaustion, healing through relationships, and learning from failure. Through the stories of figures like Abraham, Mary, Moses, Peter, Elijah, Ruth, and David, the sessions connect biblical narratives with psychological insights about human growth and resilience. The programme emphasises how trust reduces anxiety, responsibility shapes identity, rest restores balance, relationships foster healing, and forgiveness transforms shame into personal growth. Participants are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and develop healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges.

Ideal for people who would like to delve deeper into the psychological themes in the Bible; General Public.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Wednesdays between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

Students can join online via Zoom

DateSession
7th April 2027The Bible as a Mirror of the Human Heart (Introduction)
14th April 2027Facing the Unknown
21st April 2027Identity and Self-Doubt
28th April 2027Burnout and Emotional Exhaustion
5th May 2027Healing Through Relationship
12th May 2027Failure, Shame, and Restoration

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.

The Catholic Understanding of Angels and the Spiritual World

25/05/2026

Angels occupy an important place in Catholic theology as spiritual beings created by God to serve His plan of salvation. This course explores the nature and mission of angels as presented in Sacred Scripture, Catholic tradition, and theology, including the angelic hierarchy, the role of guardian angels, and the presence of angels throughout salvation history.

Special attention will also be given to the reality of fallen angels and the Christian understanding of spiritual warfare, reflecting on how Christ’s victory over evil shapes the believer’s spiritual life. The course will also explore the presence of angels in Catholic art, devotion, pastoral ministry, and catechesis, offering practical insights for those engaged in pastoral work and formation.

This course is intended for adult Catholics and mature older adolescents seeking deeper doctrinal formation.

Recommended age: 16 years and above.

It is especially suitable for parish adult faith formation, RCIA formators, catechists, youth leaders, and any faithful wishing to deepen their understanding of the Church’s teaching on angels within a Catholic framework.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Mondays between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

DateSession
1st February 2027The Nature of Angels and the Heavenly Order
8th February 2027Angels in the Mystery of Salvation. How angels act throughout Scripture and salvation history
15th February 2027The Guardian Angels
22nd February
2027		The Fallen Angels: Sin, Spiritual Warfare, and Christian Victory
1st March 2027Angels in Catholic Art
8th March 2027Angels in Pastoral Ministry
15th March 2027Teaching about Angels to Children and Young People

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.

Encountering Paul: From Acts to the Epistles

21/05/2026

This five‑session course offers a concise yet rich introduction to the life, mission, and theology of the Apostle Paul through both the narrative of Acts and the undisputed Pauline epistles. Participants begin with Paul’s dramatic emergence in Acts before moving through key epistles that reveal his pastoral heart, theological depth, and evolving relationships with early Christian communities: the hope and urgency of 1 Thessalonians and Galatians, the joy and reconciliation of Philippians and Philemon, the complex dynamics of the Corinthian correspondence, and the sweeping theological vision of Romans. Together, these sessions provide a coherent overview of Paul’s thought and its enduring impact on Christian identity and practice.

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 Paul 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 between 6:00pm – 8:00pm at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

Students can join online via Zoom

DateSession
6th January 2027Paul in Acts
13th January 20271 Thessalonians
& Galatians
20th January 2027Philippians & Philemon
27th January 20271 Corinthians & 2 Corinthians
3rd February 2027Romans

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.

Beyond the Classroom: A Milani Approach to Pastoral and Educational Formation Today

21/05/2026

The course connects Lorenzo Milani’s pedagogical insights with current challenges faced in Maltese schools and pastoral formation centres, such as student disengagement, social inequality, digital culture, and the pastoral accompaniment of children and young people. Participants will be invited to reflect on how educators, catechists, and pastoral leaders can foster environments of formation rooted in dignity, belonging, participation, and the ethos of “I care,” in line with the mission of the Church in Malta.

This course explores the educational vision of Lorenzo Milani and its relevance for contemporary Catholic formal education and pastoral ministry in Malta. Through five sessions, participants examine Milani’s life, the experience of the Barbiana school, and key themes from Letter to a Teacher, including inclusion, equity, literacy, and the formation of conscience.

This course is designed for:

  • Teachers and members of staff in Church and state schools in Malta, including primary and secondary educators, Learning Support Educators (LSEs), pastoral care teams, and school leaders. 
  • Youth ministers and pastoral leaders working with children and adolescents in parish, diocesan, and community settings. 

The course is intended for adults engaged in the educational and faith formation of children and young people (approximately ages 6–18), and who seek to strengthen their practice through inclusive, faith-based, and socially responsive approaches inspired by the vision of Lorenzo Milani.

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on 3 Saturdays at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta

DateTimeSession
17th October 20269:00am – 19:30am

10:45am – 12:15pm		Part 1: Don Lorenzo Milani: Life, Context, and Prophetic Mission in a Fragmented WorldPart 2: Understanding those whom we accompany
Part 2: The School of Barbiana: Community, Belonging, and Deep Learning
7th November 20269:00am – 19:30am

10:45am – 12:15pm		Part 1: Letter to a Teacher: Inclusion, Equity, and the Crisis of Motivation
Part 2: Conscience, Peace, and Digital Responsibility
5th December 20269:00am – 11:00amMilani’s Legacy Today: Building Schools that Say “I Care”

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.

Catechetical Preparation 2026: Growing in Faith and Service

15/05/2026

This course offers an integrated formation for those called to share and nurture faith in today’s world. Through five focused sessions, participants will explore the method and spirit of catechesis, gain insights into those they accompany, and address the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. The course also deepens understanding of the Church’s moral and social teaching while fostering the personal and spiritual growth of the catechist. Designed to strengthen both competence and conviction, this programme equips participants to serve as authentic witnesses and effective ministers in the mission of evangelization.

Rabat Parish Catechists

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on 3 Fridays from 5:00pm to 7:15pm at

Ċentru San Luqa, Nigret, Rabat

DateSession
4th September 2026Part 1: Introduction on the Method of Catechesis
Part 2: Understanding those whom we accompany
11th September 2026Part 1: The Digital Era and Catechesis – Practical Aspects
Part 2: The Moral and Social Teaching of the Church
18th September 2026The Formation of the Catechist: Foundations for Effective Ministry

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.

The Dignity of Work: Catholic Social Teaching and Economic Justice

15/05/2026

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/

These three seminars will offer an in-depth exploration of one of the key themes of the Social Teachings of the Catholic Church. Throughout these sessions, different aspects related to work will be discussed. The course encourages reflection on how Catholic Social Teaching on work developed in the last two centuries in response to the evolution of the work context, the interplay between work and the economic system and the relation between work and family life. Discussions will also address rights and responsibilities within the context of work. Participants will be challenged to consider how the Social Teachings of the Church can inform and shape their daily lives. 

Anyone with an interest in the Catholic Social Teaching and their interplay in working life. 

Target Audience Age: 18+

The course will take place on Saturdays from 9:00am to 11:00am at

Ta’ Mlit Pastoral Centre, Mosta.

Students have the option to join this course online via Zoom

DateSession
10th October 2026Work & Its evolution through the ages
21st November 2026Work & the economic system
23rd January 2027Work & family life 

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.