Companies to Watch: BELS proudly shares plans for a state-of-the-art learning and accommodation hub

At the end of 2021, the CEO of BELS Language School decided to explore a venture she had long been thinking about. Having repeatedly gone to battle during the pandemic – not only to protect her own language school but also to help safeguard her industry’s future – Rebecca Bonnici came out the other side with renewed resilience and determination. The challenging period in her company’s history may have heightened the precariousness of running a business but it also sparked what Rebecca refers to as her ‘aha moment’ when she decided to address the gap in Malta’s accommodation offerings for language students.

“As sole owner and investor, I needed to find a way to continue running a viable undertaking that could prevail in the event of future adversity,” she explains. The only solution was to get creative… The idea was born to create a purpose-built campus in which classrooms and student-focused accommodation complemented one another in the same building, to elevate the experience of English language students coming to Malta’s shores.

Site demolition began in January 2025 and while the location is currently under wraps, Rebecca reveals that BELS will uphold its promise to teach English in Malta’s less busy areas. Described as a “labour of love that has been a long time coming,” the eight-storey, 24-classroom, 44-bedroom setup “will reinforce BELS’ standing not just in the classroom but also in the accommodation domain”.

Expanding on the vision behind the planned state-of-the-art campus, Rebecca explains, “vacation units are built to cater for short-stay holiday makers rather than long-stay guests such as language learners. Whether a student is with us short-term for simple general English or taking higher level business English or even on a full year’s course, they have less need than a tourist for a phone book, Bible or even TV in the age of device-based digital streaming. Students have a greater requirement for a room with a decent space for reading and notetaking and a reliable internet connection.”

Due to this gap, BELS has been providing client accommodation for almost ten years by converting existing real estate units into leased housing where students can interact and practise conversing with other English language learners. (Indeed, the company recently achieved further international accreditation, certifying the quality of its existing accommodation alongside its classroom product.) “Today’s English language student is different from that of 20, 30 years ago,” Rebecca affirms. “People want more value for their money and have more solid learning objectives now, whether it’s to use their new linguistic knowledge for career development, personal growth or improved social interaction.”

That said, Rebecca admits the endeavour has entailed significant financial outlay and has been challenging from a legal and regulatory perspective. After conducting comprehensive research (including financial feasability), it was therefore decided that the most logical next step was for BELS to build its own academic and residential facility where personal comfort and holistic principles will guide the entire construction process.

Recognising that a positive living environment enhances academic performance, the new campus will offer avenues for self-care and personal enrichment in addition to a place to sleep and learn. Facilities will include co-working lounges for project-based learning, a student café serving nutritious meals and wellness areas designed for relaxation and social interaction. A dedicated student experience team will organise cultural outings, networking events and conversation clubs, fostering a strong sense of community among international learners. Additionally, strategic partnerships with local fitness centres, libraries and businesses will provide students with exclusive access to discounts and amenities, ensuring a memorable stay in Malta.

As on BELS’ existing campuses, classrooms will be equipped with state of the art technology. Uniquely, they will also be geared up for diverse learning styles and abilities through the incorporation of visual, auditory and kinaesthetic elements. Beyond its physical design, the new campus will serve as a catalyst for pedagogical innovation. The curriculum will integrate interactive digital platforms, AI-powered language assessment tools, and real-world immersive experiences to accelerate student progress. BELS also plans to introduce hybrid courses that blend in-person and online instruction, ensuring greater flexibility for students balancing work or studies. Dedicated study zones and collaborative learning spaces, will allow students to engage with teachers and peers in an adaptive, technology-enhanced environment.

“Learners and agents alike have also begun to ask about our efforts to limit our eco-footprint so this too is being considered with every decision we take,” Rebecca continues. In alignment with BELS’ commitment to responsible business practices, the new campus aims to meet international sustainability standards such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. The facility will incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, alongside smart climate control technology to optimise energy efficiency. Additionally, eco-conscious furniture, recycled construction materials, and a zero-waste policy will underscore the institution’s pledge to minimise its environmental impact. Beyond infrastructure, sustainability will also be embedded into the curriculum, equipping students with awareness of global green initiatives and sustainable business communication practices.

Employee wellbeing will carry equal importance in the building’s design. “It’s paramount that all personnel feel included and heard during the planning, building and finishing stages,” Rebecca emphasises. “Our staff area will be a haven that enables staff to switch off, rest, refuel and recharge.”

The bold step forward is a win-win all round. “We’re bringing enhanced comfort and practicality to our students and a more sustainable business model to our company,” Rebecca says. Moreover, she is keen to highlight that the purpose-built campus should not be viewed simply as a shrewd investment decision for BELS. “This is also an investment in the reputation of our country. Malta has made great strides in educational regulation, implementing host family legislation and teacher licensing frameworks, proving to the rest of the world how serious we are about English Language Teaching. The new BELS campus will take this dedication to the next level. It will fulfil our goal of cementing Malta’s ELT reputation on the international stage by delivering an unparalleled experience in learning and living to students.”

While Malta may be competing with Ireland, the UK, Canada and Cyprus both in the ELT sphere and infrastructurally, Rebecca points out, “beyond the obvious sun-and-fun appeal, this country’s incredible history, culture and natural landscape are three gems that shine in terms of attracting mature learners. I’m an ardent champion of what our archipelago has to offer as an educational tourism destination. Whether I’m at conferences abroad promoting Malta and Gozo, or in my seat on the FELTOM board, the MTA board or at the ELT council, my focus is always on promoting Malta and strengthening quality within the ELT industry, not just my company”.

Sharing some final thoughts, BELS’ owner delivers an inspiring sentiment. “Running a business around teaching English to the world has been my business schooling – and interactions with my peers, employees and clients (local and international) have been my classroom. This next project will be the culmination of everything I’ve learned over the past 15 years.”

Project completion is estimated for a few years’ time; the goal is for anyone walking through the campus doors to feel like they are in a space that is as connected with the community it serves, as it is with its educational mission. It will also embody just under three decades of BELS’ values. “We’ve always said we’ll never become the fast-food factory of English Language Teaching. Our ethos will continue to be client-centric and quality-driven. I truly believe our planned campus will reflect this.”

This interview forms part of the Companies to Watch in 2025, a business serialisation of BusinessNow.mt, Malta’s fastest-growing, cutting-edge business news portal, aimed at companies achieving their goals, marking important milestones, or planning to announce major business news.

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