Genk – Summer schools in Limburg achieved record participation this year, with 345 children in Genk, 100 in Heusden-Zolder, and additional programs in Tongeren-Borgloon and Leopoldsburg, supported by local officials and volunteers, reports 24brussels.
This summer, several Limburg municipalities rolled out summer school programs that attracted significant numbers of children and received positive feedback from families. In Genk, the city hosted its 14th edition of the summer school series, which ran throughout July and August.
A total of 23 summer schools operated across the city, marking a new record with participation from 345 children. For the fourth consecutive year, Genk also organized special sessions for Ukrainian children, with around 50 young learners attending these classes.
“Each summer school lasts two weeks, and we’re noticing that more and more children are attending every day,”
said Alderman Aniek Nagels (CD8V).
“The great thing about summer schools is that children learn in a fun way, without it feeling like school.”
How did Limburg summer schools attract record numbers of children?
Heusden-Zolder also reported impressive numbers for its summer school program this year. Alderman Steven Goris (N-VA) announced that until Friday, Aug 29, 2025, 100 children from grades 1 to 5 will have the chance to participate. The program combines learning with games, workshops, and creative projects. Officials in both Genk and Heusden-Zolder emphasized the programs’ importance for children’s development.
“The special needs teachers at our schools selected students who would particularly benefit from support,”
Alderman Goris added.
“In the morning, there were lessons on language and math. In the afternoon, there were creative and sports workshops.”
The summer school in Tongeren-Borgloon took place at the Atheneeke primary school in Tongeren. Currently, the program is limited to Tongeren, but discussions are underway to expand to two schools in Borgloon next year. Officials noted that the initiative aims to create a positive learning environment distinct from the standard school year.
“For many families, summer school is more than just education,”
stated Alderman Steve Hoste (Tongeren-Borgloon.nu).
“It’s also a safe, stimulating place where children can discover, play, and grow. We see that this initiative not only helps the children, but also relieves the burden on parents and strengthens social cohesion in our community.”
Leopoldsburg launched its first municipal summer school this summer, enrolling 65 children from kindergarten to the 3rd grade. Additional support was provided in a setting that emphasized fun and play, with over 20 teachers and volunteers facilitating lessons, workshops, and activities.
The municipality deemed the inaugural session a success and sees it as a significant step forward. Local officials underscored that the program not only enhances academic performance but also fosters confidence and provides valuable social experiences.
Summer schools in Flanders were initiated in 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Flemish government introduced the program to assist children in recovering from educational disruptions caused by extended school closures.
Since then, the initiative has been implemented across various municipalities with financial backing from the Flemish Education Department, encouraging schools and local authorities to engage. The number of summer schools has increased annually, with more towns and cities participating and expanding their offerings.
