Belgian summer camps and schools adapt to heat, enrollment rises

Sports and activity centres in Jette, Brussels, are changing their programmes to protect children during the heat wave. Organisers are moving activities indoors, lowering exercise intensity, ensuring regular water breaks, and requiring sunscreen, caps and hydrated bottles. Facilities keep windows open for ventilation and use a WhatsApp group to remind staff and participants of heat‑safety measures, aiming to prevent heat‑related illnesses.

In Flemish Brabant, summer schools are experiencing a surge in participation. About 2,297 children will attend this summer, roughly a third more than the 1,808 who enrolled last year. The Flemish government has allocated €10 million to support these schools, which focus on strengthening Dutch language skills while also offering leisure activities. Officials describe the programme as a now‑established part of the region’s educational offering.