The regional government of Madrid has approved two measures aimed at improving educational and recreational opportunities for young residents ahead of the 2025-2026 school year. Under the new “Patios Abiertos” initiative, the administration will distribute €4.8 million to municipalities that volunteer to open public-school playgrounds, sports courts and libraries on weekday afternoons and during non-school days. The programme, due to start in September, will require participating councils to supply staff for supervision and security, giving students and local families free access to additional open spaces. Separately, the government opened applications for its ‘Segunda Oportunidad’ scholarships, which provide unemployed young people who are not in education with grants of up to €2,800 spread over ten monthly payments. Backed by a €15 million budget, the scheme can support as many as 6,600 Madrid residents aged 16-30 who enrol in courses leading to secondary-school qualifications, vocational training or professional certificates. Applications will be accepted from 17 July through 7 August.