We have put together some initial FAQs to help provide more information for parents/carers on the Special School Summer Schemes 2026.
Essential planning is underway and will continue following the Easter holidays.
The EA and Special Schools will continue to communicate regularly in the coming weeks and provide further updates as work progresses. This will include details of specific arrangements as appropriate.
Why can the summer schemes now go ahead when a decision was taken to cancel them?
The Education Authority's position has been consistent throughout - summer schemes can only go ahead if they are safe, and that requires nursing cover and appropriate staffing levels to be in place.
Last week, following further extensive engagement, we received confirmation from the Department of Health that nursing cover would not be available. On that basis, we confirmed that summer schemes could not proceed safely.
Subsequently, the Department of Health helpfully confirmed that they were able to make nursing cover available at each Special School Summer Scheme site. We are grateful to our health colleagues for revisiting their position, and that confirmation is what has allowed us to move forward with planning.
We recognise that this situation caused real distress to families and are firmly committed to working with colleagues in health to deliver successful schemes this summer.
Will the same number of SEN Summer Schemes run this year?
We anticipate that Summer Scheme provision will be similar to that delivered last year.
EA is now working closely with the Health Trusts, Department of Health and Special Schools to put arrangements in place, with the safety and well-being of pupils a critical priority.
Will my child be supported by the same staff as during term time? Will staff be suitably qualified?
Where possible, children and young people will be supported by staff who already know them and understand their needs. However, not all staff are contracted or available to work during the summer months. If different staff are supporting your child, they will be given the relevant information and training to help them meet your child’s needs as part of the wider team.
How long will the summer scheme run for?
Provision can vary from school to school. Overall, we anticipate schools will offer a similar level of provision to Summer 2025. Your school will share confirmed dates and further details in the coming weeks.
What safety measures are being put in place? Will there be nursing cover at each summer scheme?
The Department of Health has confirmed that nursing cover will be available at each Special School Summer Scheme site.
Other important safety measures include identifying each child’s needs in advance and putting the right support in place; completing site risk assessments; ensuring appropriate staffing levels and training; and providing oversight of activities for children and young people throughout the scheme.