Summer schemes could be ‘extremely advantageous’

A NEW summer scheme for schools could prove “extremely advantageous” for children, following months out of the classroom.

This week local schools were waiting for full details of a programme, which was recently confirmed to be in the pipeline by Education Minister, Peter Weir.

It is understood that the summer classes could focus on mental health, well-being and interactive activities.

“Holy Cross has welcomed the announcement of a summer scheme and several staff, teaching and non teaching, have already expressed interest in facilitating,” principal at Holy Cross College, Clare Bradley explained. “At the minute we are waiting for the details of roll out.”

She added, “I’m quite sure many of our young people will be glad to have an outlet for a few weeks of their summer holiday as they have had to spend so many weeks in lockdown over recent months.

“Summer schemes, with organised activities in a safe environment have always been welcomed by parents and pupils in the younger year groups and I’m sure this one will be just as popular.”

Sinn Féin MLA Nicola Brogan, who received confirmation from Minister Weir that the development of a voluntary summer scheme at local schools is progressing well, said that 34 schools from across west Tyrone have already indicated they are taking part.

The MLA said, “These summer schemes will focus on emotional health, well-being, interactive activities and outside play. These activities will be extremely advantageous to children given the year they have faced in and out of the school setting.

“Mental health is a huge cause of concern and I am confident schemes such as these will play a big part in promoting positive mind-sets and healthy living for primary and post primary children.

“Thirty-four schools from across west Tyrone have so far indicated that they will be taking part (27 primary and seven post primary) with more potentially signing up.

“The schemes are due to take place in July/August for a period of three weeks.

“Full details of the scheme will be issued to school principals in May and will provide clarity on the operation of the scheme to enable schools to make a decision on whether they would like to take part.”