Another look behind the scenes – Part 4 of our interview series with inlingua Malta
For the fourth installment of our multi part series, Maryse Gatt provides insight into her journey with inlingua, the successes, challenges, and special experiences.
About your Path to inlingua
What originally motivated you to open your own inlingua center?
My father, Maurice Portelli, was a keen entrepreneur. On the lookout for new opportunities, he embarked on a novel platform ‘Learning English in Malta’ putting Malta on the map as a language learning destination. Joining the inlingua family was the most obvious choice and in 1980 inlingua Malta was born. We are forerunners in the industry and today many others have followed. We have retained our ’boutique school’ image and not succumbed to being a ‘quantity’ as opposed to a ‘quality’ school. Taking over the franchise from my father was a natural step and together with my two daughters Luisa and Philippa we ensure inlingua Malta is administered wisely and adheres to inlingua international guidelines.
2025 marks 45 years in operation, indeed, a milestone to be celebrated!
How did you first hear about inlingua?
inlingua was introduced to my family by another inlingua licensee. After familiarizing ourselves with the brand we knew we wanted to be part of inlingua.
What ultimately led you to become an inlingua licensee?
Our passion for learning and sharing while creating an unexplored venture in Malta.
What expectations did you have at the beginning of the partnership?
Embarking on a new venture is always daunting. However, with assistance from inlingua international we were shown how to deliver quality language courses.
Your Experience as an inlingua Licensee
What were the biggest challenges in the initial phase?
Introducing our product into a new market, ensuring our trainers were prepared to embrace this novel learning platform and building the right team for the day-to-day operation of our center.
How would you describe your journey with inlingua so far in three words?
Challenging, Evolving and Rewarding.
Were there any decisions that you found particularly difficult?
During Covid we had to reduce staff hours for one-year due to forced closure by the authorities. The support of management and staff got us through this difficult time.
What kept you motivated during difficult times?
Our team! We managed to retain all staff members through two Covid years. Sacrifices were made and we emerged together as a united team.
The Network and Support
How do you feel about working with the inlingua network and HQ?
We are an ‘importing’ school, our work is generated from abroad. Working alongside inlingua HQ we feel a strong support system and the reassurance of being part of a group experiencing similar challenges. Sharing ideas while taking advantage of the exciting learning material sets us apart from ‘the rest’. We would appreciate welcoming more students through our inlingua counterparts since this currently makes up only 5% of our workload.
In what situations did you feel especially well supported?
In the pedagogical department the material is evolving to keep up with changing trends. The online platform is effective for both trainers and students.
What advantages do you see in belonging to an international network?
We benefit from the ongoing support of inlingua international while sharing ideas and challenges with likeminded school owners. Also working within parameters, guidelines and standards that make inlingua international so renowned.
Review and Outlook
Have you ever regretted your decision to become an inlingua licensee?
There has never been any regret in taking on the role as an inlingua licensee. However, it does come with its challenges. Hard work, constant dedication and attention to detail bring the required results.
What are your greatest successes or milestones so far?
This year is another milestone year for inlingua Malta, 45 years in operation can surely be considered a success.
Are there any memorable customer experiences that stand out for you?
We have just obtained a ‘school of excellence’ certificate from a leading partner overseas Languagecourse.net with 100% excellent reviews. Our team sees this certificate as recognition of their hard work. Staff members David and Nigel deserve a special mention for ensuring the smooth running of our operation.
What are your plans or goals for the coming years?
We are currently planning to increase our ‘student accommodation’ portfolio. We are confident that selling our own accommodation/academic experience will increase our overall student satisfaction rate.
Finally
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming an inlingua licensee?
Becoming an inlingua licensee is challenging and rewarding however, one needs to delve deeply into today’s challenges. Staff shortages, stiff competition, social media advantages/disadvantages, pricing and location all deserve a mention.
What makes inlingua special to you – compared to other providers?
Our worldwide network sets us apart from ‘the rest’. We provide continuous learning where our students can move to another inlingua center and carry on with the same course book.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Onwards and upwards – we look forward to celebrating 50 years of inlingua Malta.