Schools decide each spring whether to run it, applying in May. Ask your school early in the year, and push for it: places go first to special classes, then to children with complex needs in mainstream.
Quick facts
- Mainstream primary
- 2 to 4 weeks
- Post-primary
- 2 weeks
- Special school
- 2 to 5 weeks
- Home-based
- Up to 10 hours a week, 2 to 4 weeks
- Home-based for
- Special school or class pupils
- School applications
- 6 to 15 May
Who it's for
"Children with complex special educational needs, and Children most at risk of educational disadvantage." That includes children in special classes and children at the highest level of support in mainstream, such as with autism, Down syndrome or sensory impairments.
Priority goes to special classes, then complex needs in mainstream, then children most at risk of disadvantage, including Traveller, Roma and newly arrived children.
How long it runs
"Mainstream primary school 2 to 4 weeks during the summer holidays, not including weekends or bank holidays Mainstream post-primary school 2 weeks during the summer holidays, not including weekends or bank holidays Special school 2 to 5 weeks during the summer holidays, not including weekends or bank holidays".
"Schools wanting to run a Summer Programme in 2026 must apply to the Department of Education and Youth between 6 and 15 May 2026." Schools in the School Meals Scheme can keep giving a free daily meal.
The home-based programme
"With the home-based summer education programme, you get grant funding to hire a teacher or SNA to teach and care for your child at home." "This is only available to children with complex special educational needs who are in a special school or special class."
"If your child qualifies, they will get a maximum of 10 hours support per week, for 2 to 4 weeks during the summer holidays." Apply through the school. "You should not start a home-based programme until the Department of Education and Youth has confirmed that your child qualifies."
Transport
Special educational needs transport or a Special Transport Grant may continue. "The School Transport Scheme does not run during the Summer Programme." Helpline: 090 648 4292.
Common questions
What is the Summer Programme for children with special needs?
Extra school-based or home-based education during the summer holidays for children with complex special educational needs and those most at risk of educational disadvantage.
How long is the Summer Programme?
2 to 4 weeks in mainstream primary, 2 weeks in post-primary and 2 to 5 weeks in special schools.
Who can get the home-based Summer Programme?
Children with complex special educational needs in a special school or special class, if no school place is available. It funds up to 10 hours a week.
Does school transport run during the Summer Programme?
The School Transport Scheme doesn't, but SEN transport or a Special Transport Grant may.