Education Authority announces cancellation of NI special school summer schemes over safety fears

Summer schemes for children attending special schools across Northern Ireland have been cancelled this year, in a decision described by the Education Authority (EA) as “deeply regrettable” but necessary to protect vulnerable young people.

EA confirmed on Thursday (March 26) that the schemes will not go ahead due to the absence of adequate healthcare provision — specifically, the lack of on-site nursing cover required to safely support children with complex medical needs.

For many families, the news will come as a heavy blow, removing a vital source of support, routine, and respite during the summer months.

Safety concerns drive difficult decision

EA said the decision had been taken “solely on safety grounds”, following months of engagement with the Department of Health in an effort to secure appropriate medical support.

Despite those efforts, the Department confirmed this week that nursing provision would not be available for the schemes.

Without that cover, the Authority said “only one decision can be responsibly made”.

The statement acknowledged the emotional impact on families, adding:

“We deeply regret it and fully understand that it will be very distressing for children and parents.”

Rising complexity, shrinking support

At the heart of the issue is a growing mismatch between the increasingly complex health needs of pupils and the level of healthcare support available in schools.

Children attending special schools may require specialist care such as:

• Administration of epilepsy rescue medication

• Diabetes monitoring and management

• Support for tracheotomy care

• Ongoing medical oversight and intervention

The Education Authority highlighted concerns not only about nursing cover, but also around training, governance, and ensuring that school staff have appropriate delegated authority from health services to carry out medical tasks safely.

Summer schemes carry greater risk

While these challenges exist during the school term, the risks are significantly heightened in summer schemes.

Staffing levels are typically reduced, and those working in schemes may not have the same familiarity with individual children and their specific health needs as full-time school staff.

These long-standing issues, combined with the absence of on-site nurses, were deemed to create an unacceptable level of risk.

Call for long-term solution

The Education Authority said the situation underscores the urgent need for a consistent, province-wide, nurse-led healthcare service for special schools throughout the year.

It warned that the current lack of provision is already placing increasing pressure on schools and raising concerns about pupil welfare even during term time.

Efforts will now continue with the Department of Health and the wider health system to secure a permanent solution.

“Our absolute priority must continue to be the welfare and safety of children and young people in our care,” the statement said.

Impact felt across communities

For families across Northern Ireland — including many in the Ballymena area — summer schemes are more than just activities. They provide structure, social interaction, and essential support for children with additional needs.

Their cancellation leaves a significant gap at a time when many parents rely on these programmes the most.

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At a glance

• Summer schemes at NI special schools will not take place in 2026

• Decision made due to lack of on-site nursing cover

• Education Authority says move is based solely on safety concerns

• Department of Health confirmed nursing provision unavailable

• Children involved often have complex medical needs

• Risks heightened in summer due to reduced staffing and unfamiliarity

• Families expected to be significantly impacted by cancellation

• Calls for permanent, year-round nurse-led provision across schools

• Engagement with health authorities to continue