Bednet

• In Bednet’s first full school year of operation (2007-2008), it supported 37 children.
• This number rose to 335 during the 2015-2016 school year, and to 511 this year.
• Since Bednet was launched, 1,593 children with a long-term or chronic illness have used SIE in 1,111 Flemish schools.
• One out of five Flemish schools has supported a pupil with a chronic or long-term illness by using Bednet to connect them with their classmates. Increasing numbers of schools have done this multiple times.
• 359 children have received Bednet support lasting two or more school years.
• The children and adolescents involved live in all parts of Flanders and Brussels. 69% of Bednet users attend secondary school.
• 55% of children use Bednet for between seven months and one school year.
• Cancer remains the most common illness suffered, affecting 26% of all users.

Bednet ensures that children and adolescents who are absent from school due to illness, surgery or pregnancy can continue attending lessons – from their home and with their own class. The decree on education calls this synchronous internet education (SIE) - real-time distance learning. It is available for pre-school children from the age of 5 as well as primary and secondary school pupils in all certified state-subsidised schools in Flanders and Brussels. Equipment and counselling are free for schools and families for as long as they are needed.