Earlier this month, the Government announced this year's Summer Programme to allow all primary and post-primary schools to offer a summer programme for students with complex special educational needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage.
The total funding available to provide summer programmes this year is up to €40 million. The programme was developed following extensive engagement with education stakeholders, parent and disability advocacy groups.
The programme aims are to support pupils to maintain their connection with education, to build their confidence and increase their motivation, promote wellbeing and for those who are at key transition stages, helping to ensure they continue their education journey in September either in school or in further/higher education or training.
The information requested by the Deputy for the 2022 programme is not available at this stage However, the following information relates to the 2021 programme. Special Schools in 2021 had the option of offering a 5 week programme in 2021, as will be the case in 2022, so this figure has also been included.
Number of weeks offered in Special School
|
Number of pupils who attended
|
1
|
25
|
2
|
1083
|
3
|
123
|
4
|
386
|
5
|
24
|