Education in Gibraltar generally follows the English model and operates within a three-tier system. Schools adhere to the Key Stage framework, delivering the National Curriculum. The first year of education typically begins in nursery or pre-school, catering to children aged 3 to 4. Attendance at this stage is optional. Compulsory education begins at age 4 with primary education, starting with Reception, which continues until the age of 5. In Gibraltar, primary education spans eight years and is divided into First and Middle Schools.
In recent years, HM Government of Gibraltar has undertaken a significant investment in education infrastructure, building several state-of- the-art schools equipped with modern facilities. These schools are considered among the best in Europe. This is the second series of stamps celebrating Gibraltar’s newly launched schools.
St. Mary’s School has long served the educational needs of young children in Gibraltar. Recognizing the need for modernization and increased capacity, construction of a new school building commenced in October 2021 at 44 Town Range and 10 Victualling Office Lane, just 50 meters from the original site. The new facility, completed in May 2023, is 600 square meters larger than its predecessor and includes amenities such as a sports hall, dining area, special educational needs (SEN) spaces, meeting rooms, and improved accessibility features.
Governor’s Meadow School has long been a cornerstone of early years education in Gibraltar. In April 2021, the school faced a major challenge when a fire caused extensive damage during the school holidays. Thanks to the swift response of the Gibraltar Fire and Rescue Service and coordinated efforts by various departments, the school was able to reopen within two weeks. In September 2023, a brand-new, modern facility was inaugurated on the same site. The new building includes Gibraltar’s first dedicated primary school mental health hub, reflecting a commitment to holistic child development and contemporary learning environments.
Bishop Fitzgerald School was established in 1958 and was originally constructed on the historic site of an old fortification at South Bastion, near Charles V Wall. Initially designed as a two-storey structure, it was expanded to three floors to meet the growing educational needs of the community. In recent years, the school has undergone a complete redevelopment. Plans for a new building were approved in 2019, with the aim of increasing capacity and incorporating state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated rooms for science, art, and a multi-purpose sports hall. The new premises officially opened in September 2023, providing students with a modern and inspiring learning environment.
St. Martin’s School is Gibraltar’s specialist institution for students with special educational needs. It was originally opened in September 1976, made possible by the determined fundraising efforts of parents whose children had been excluded from mainstream education. Their advocacy led the then AACR government to fund the remaining construction costs. Over the years, the school has benefited from continued support and investment, including a £300,000 grant from the Kusuma Trust between 2011 and 2013 to improve and expand the school’s facilities. A brand-new, purpose-built school was inaugurated in September 2021, further strengthening the school’s capacity to provide comprehensive and inclusive support for its students.
