Kids' Ark

Kids' Ark Childcare Centre is a nursery in the heart of Pietà, the busy town on the edge of Valletta and Msida. It describes a fun, calm and family-oriented setting where children are looked after in small groups and receive individual attention from qualified early years staff. It is one of several options in our directory of nurseries in Malta, and it is a practical choice for working parents based around the capital.

The centre is relatively new, and its facilities are generous for a town-centre nursery: a large indoor play area, two dedicated sensory rooms and an outdoor area of 200 square metres.

The approach: sensory play and active learning

Sensory play is the centre's main focus. The idea is that very young children learn best through all their senses, so the daily activities invite them to touch, mix, pour, paint and explore. Alongside sensory activities, the programme includes social development through communication, creative sessions with paint and messy play, and gross motor activities such as dancing and yoga to get children moving.

Teaching follows a child-centred model, which means children take their learning into their own hands and are praised for trying new things, asking questions and learning from mistakes. The curriculum is inclusive, and the centre welcomes every child regardless of gender, ethnicity or race. All staff are qualified and experienced in early years education, and the manager, Katrina Vella, favours a child-led style in which children can explore their feelings and preferences.

Registering and settling in

Parents are asked to complete the registration form, or they can arrange a meeting at the centre. Registering at least a month before the intended start date is recommended, and acceptance is confirmed by email once the application has been received. Visits before the first day are strongly encouraged, so that you can talk through any worries and go over the paperwork.

The first days are structured to be gentle. For the first two days a child attends for about two hours with a parent or guardian, getting used to the room, new friends and carers. On the third day the child is encouraged to spend two hours without a parent. Families new to the island will find more general advice in our guide to relocating to Malta from the UK, and parents who work from home can read our page on remote working and the nomad residence permit.

What to ask on a visit

A visit before the first day is a good chance to see the playrooms, the sensory rooms and the outdoor area for yourself. It is worth asking how the small groups are organised, how the staff handle the settling-in period for your child, and how parents are kept involved, since the centre describes a family-oriented approach in which parents or guardians are invited to take part every step of the way. Bring any questions about your child's routines, feeding or sleep, and have the registration details ready so that the paperwork can be reviewed at the same time.

Fees and the Free Childcare Scheme

Kids' Ark takes part in Malta's Free Childcare Scheme, so regular hours covered by the scheme are paid by the state. Families who do not qualify can ask about private scheme packages. A one-time, non-refundable deposit of €100 is charged, and parents may also be asked for a contribution every three months towards activities such as cooking. For the wider financial picture of living here, see our Malta tax guide for UK nationals.

Where to find Kids' Ark

The nursery is at 105 Triq Hookham Frere in Pietà. The town sits close to Valletta, so visiting parents can combine a visit with our Valletta guide, and those staying in the capital can browse hotels in Valletta. For family days out, see our things to do in Malta page, the Malta weather guide for planning around the seasons, and the listings for Adventure Hub and Afterglow Events, both children's activity businesses. Our about Malta overview gives the wider background.

To ask about places, use the VisitMalta.co.uk enquiry form on this page and we will pass your message to Kids' Ark Childcare Centre.