Latrell Gray Almosa Arcenas, a 22-year-old working student from Iloilo City, Philippines, is pursuing a Bachelor in Secondary Education (Major in Social Studies) at West Visayas State University. Currently an English Tutor at Metro Korea Language Training Center, teaching IELTS-focused classes, Latrell will attend the Malta conference as a co-author and speaker with OsloMet and the Institute for Education—his first international experience and an opportunity to learn, share, and grow as an educator.

This paper compares primary education systems in Malta, Norway, and the Philippines, focusing on teacher qualifications, professional development, and their relationship to teaching methods and student achievement. Using policy analysis and TIMSS 2019 data from over 13,000 students, 6,000 teachers, and 428 schools, the study examines national regulations, teacher competence, and classroom practices. Findings highlight similarities and differences across contexts, revealing how teacher development policies shape effective teaching and learning outcomes.