Thomas Gould
Question:863. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education the details of projects and schools given funding under the education catch-up summer scheme in Cork city. [42807/22]
View answerThursday, 8 September 2022
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Written answers
In May the Government announced an expanded summer programme to allow 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 in 2022 is up to €40 million.
The programme was developed following extensive engagement with education stakeholders, parent and disability advocacy groups.
The programme aims were to support pupils to maintain their connection with education, to build their confidence and increase their motivation, to promote wellbeing, and for those who were 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 programmes on offer during the summer were:
- Inclusion Programme (Primary) for all primary schools for mainstream pupils with complex needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage (2-3 weeks in duration)
- Special Classes and Special School Programme at primary level (2-5 weeks in duration)
- DEIS Numeracy and literacy Camps/Campaí Samhraidh in DEIS primary schools (one week per camp)
- Inclusion Programme (Post-Primary) for all post-primary schools for students with complex needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage (2 weeks in duration)
A home based programme was also available for pupils with complex needs where no school-based programme was available (4 weeks, up to 40 hours in total)
The supports to assist this year's programme was built on the success of the 2021 programme and incorporated feedback from education stakeholders as to how to better support the programme for all involved in summer 2022.
The programmes could be run at any time over the summer, providing schools with autonomy to split the programme weeks to best meet the needs of pupils and staff participating in the programme.
All recognised primary and post primary schools were given the opportunity of running a programme. Detailed statistical information is not currently available regarding this year's programme as payments claims are still being processed. The closing date for schools to submit their returns is the 9th September. Information will not be available until later in the year regarding the Deputy's request.