The uncertainty about the celebration of school colonies for the next academic year has caused a drastic drop in reservations throughout Catalonia. More and more educational centers doubt whether they will send their students and are delaying payment confirmations. This paralysis directly affects the colony houses operating in provinces such as Barcelona, Girona, Lleida, and Tarragona.
Fall of Reserves and Economic Risk
Sector associations estimate that the intention to book plummets to approximately 70%. If cancellations materialize completely, the associative fabric's revenue would lose more than 30 million euros. The booking calendar requires confirming groups between May and June to organize an activity that requires months of logistical and pedagogical preparation. Non-compliance with these deadlines jeopardizes a large part of the sector's economic viability.
"That at this point we do not have information about the reserves or confirmation of the colonies mortgages the majority of the sector's activity" - Pep Montes, manager of ACELLEC
Labor dispute and position of entities
The heads of the entities point out that the summer camps are involved in a broader labor conflict and have their hands tied due to the lack of agreements. They consider that their role has been reduced to a bargaining chip in negotiations that affect the entire educational community. The two associations recognize that the demands of the educational unions are legitimate and admit that the problems are directly transferred to their facilities. However, they assure that this path does not constitute the adequate solution and express their concern about how the situation may affect the minors.
"Everyone is setting a stage for September, but on that stage we will be left with people uncovered. All commitments are closed in May or June for next year" - Werner Estellé, vice president of ACCAC
Educational Impact and Union Warnings
The Pere Tàrrec Foundation warns that the current problem has led unions to adopt very radical positions. The directors understand that losing this space implies eliminating a fundamental component of child development. Education encompasses learning, skills, emotions, and socialization. Camps represent a privileged moment to consolidate these values. The system needs comprehensive improvements and cannot leave out any link.
"The right of children to be able to enjoy summer camps must be preserved" - Jaume Ramos, commercial and strategic director of Eix Estels
The situation keeps hundreds of families and educational leisure professionals on edge as key dates for autumn planning approach. Until the regulatory framework is clarified and institutional trust is re-established, reservations will continue to be frozen and the risk of canceling trips will progressively increase. The affected sectors continue to await a coordinated response that guarantees both working conditions and the right of minors to have this formative experience.