Jen Cummins
Question:335. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Education and Youth when her Department will be announcing details of this year's summer programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32136/26]
View answerWednesday, 6 May 2026
Questions (335)
Written answers
Details of the 2026 Summer Programme are expected to be announced in early May. While it is acknowledged that details of the Summer Programme are typically announced earlier, the finalisation of arrangements for the 2026 programme was delayed pending confirmation that the Department of Education and Youth would receive the additional funding required to support all aspects of education.
All schools will be offered the opportunity to run a summer programme for children with the most complex special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage.
Once details are announced, schools will be invited to apply to run a school-based programme and further information, including the link to the portal and the programme overview, will be communicated directly to all schools.
In the interim, schools are asked to begin prioritising children in special classes and special schools for participation in the school-based programme.
Again, as in previous years, the home-based Summer Programme will be available to those children who have complex special educational needs and who are accessing the highest level of the Continuum of Support throughout the school year.