Dr. Amanda Bezzina is a Senior Lecturer at the Institute for Education and a Visiting Senior Lecturer at the University of Malta. Formerly Head of Department for PSCD within the Ministry for Education, she has extensive experience as a PSCD and guidance teacher. A former President of the Malta PSD Teachers’ Association, she has contributed to curriculum development, wellbeing initiatives, and national projects, and has published widely on personal and social development.

This study examines how student wellbeing is defined and supported within the Maltese educational system. Using 16 focus groups with students across Years 4 to 11, findings reveal that wellbeing centres on connectedness and belonging, which influence student voice, engagement, centrality, and a positive environment. The research highlights how these interconnected factors shape holistic wellbeing, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and programme developers to foster supportive school cultures.