l am delighted that both primary and post primary schools in Laois and Offaly will have an opportunity to run a Summer 2023 programme for those children that need it the most.
I have been really struck by the stories from families on the importance of the summer programme to the confidence and sense of belonging of their child. I welcome the emphasis this year on ensuring that as many children as possible can engage in a fun and inclusive school-based programme.
This year a new Special School Programme is being introduced as a pilot initative to ensure a bigger focus on supporting special schools. The programme was designed and developed to ensure supports are targeted to enhance the availability of a school-based programme for pupils in special schools.
I encourage all school communities in Laois and Offaly to examine how best they can offer this programme to their students.