Minister Seán Canney Welcomes Expansion of Summer Programme for Pupils with Complex Needs and at Risk of Educational Disadvantage
Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the significant growth and continued investment in the Summer Programme for pupils with complex special educational needs and those at greatest risk of educational disadvantage.
Over €62 million has been allocated in Budget 2025 to support the continuation and expansion of the programme on a permanent basis. This year’s scheme builds on the substantial progress of recent years, with a particular focus on reaching children with the most complex needs.
In 2024, over 59,000 pupils benefitted from the programme — an increase of over 56% compared to 2021 figures. The number of schools participating in 2024 rose by 20%, including a 22% increase in the number of special schools running programmes.
“This continued expansion shows the real impact this scheme is having for children and families across the country,” Minister Canney said. “The Summer Programme is about giving children with additional needs every opportunity to thrive — to build confidence, form friendships, and transition more easily into their next school year. I am particularly encouraged by the increasing number of special schools getting involved, which shows how targeted support is making a real difference.”
The main features of the 2025 Summer Programme are:
- Focus on children with the highest level of need, as per Oireachtas Autism Committee recommendations
- All schools can participate in the programme
- Eligible pre-school children entering primary school in September 2025 can take part
- Eligibility criteria remain largely the same as 2024 (needs-based, not diagnosis-based)
- For the home based scheme, emphasis on small group settings where the evidence demonstrates the greatest benefit
- Emphasis on supporting those children with the most complex needs, especially in special schools, in accessing a school-based programme
- Support for migrant pupils, including English language and integration supports
Key priorities for 2025 include boosting participation even further by giving schools earlier notice, strengthening school-based supports, and reducing the administrative burden on staff.
“The message is clear,” Minister Canney added. “Every child deserves the chance to access educational support that meets their needs — especially those who face the greatest challenges. This investment is about fairness, inclusion, and opportunity.”