The Government of Gibraltar is pleased to announce that, with effect from 1st September 2026, the Department of Education will introduce a new and enhanced telephone communication system designed to improve the accessibility, efficiency and overall quality of service provided to members of the public, schools and stakeholders.

The new system represents a significant improvement to the Department's existing telephone infrastructure. At present, calls received through the Department's main telephone number are answered by a receptionist before being transferred to the relevant section. While this arrangement has served the Department for many years, it can result in delays during periods of high call volumes.

Under the new system, callers will be greeted by an automated telephone menu and will be able to select the appropriate option to connect directly with the relevant section of the Department of Education. This streamlined approach will reduce waiting times, minimise unnecessary call transfers and ensure that enquiries are directed to the appropriate team from the outset, enabling a more efficient and responsive service.

The upgrade forms part of the Government of Gibraltar's ongoing commitment to modernising public services through the adoption of improved technologies and more efficient ways of working. By streamlining communications, the Department aims to provide a faster, more responsive and user-friendly service for parents, carers, school staff and the wider community.

The Department of Education's main contact number, 200 77486, will remain unchanged under the new telephone system and, from 1st September 2026, will be the Department's sole telephone contact number.

The secondary number, 200 78638, will be permanently deactivated with effect from 31st August 2026.

Details of these changes will be published on the Government of Gibraltar website and circulated through the Department of Education's usual communication channels. Members of the public are encouraged to update their records to ensure they contact the Department using the correct telephone number.

The Government appreciates the cooperation and understanding of the public during the implementation of the new system and is confident that these improvements will enhance the overall experience of those who interact with the Department of Education.

The Minister for Education, the Hon Prof John Cortes MP, said: "Parents, carers, school staff and members of the public should be able to reach the right team at the Department quickly and easily. This new system will cut waiting times and direct calls to the right people first time, and it forms part of our wider work to modernise and improve the services the Department provides to our schools and our community. I thank the Department's staff for their work in putting it in place."