Helping schools
One child in every 200 under the age of 18 has epilepsy, and all schools will have pupils living with the condition themselves or in a family member. Helping these children meet all the requirements of Every Child Matters, in particular staying safe and enjoying and achieving is a challenge. Young Epilepsy can help.
Young people with epilepsy often tell us that they feel different and excluded from activities; staff may be concerned about safety issues and other pupils may be fearful. Witnessing an epileptic seizure or worrying that one may occur can have a profound effect on staff and classmates if they are unprepared.
We can help schools by providing a range of activities including assemblies, lessons and staff training. Our education officers have specialist knowledge of epilepsy and are experienced teachers and trainers. They will work with schools in an engaging and age-appropriate manner to promote epilepsy awareness for pupils.
Free lessons for schools in London boroughs thanks to the Big Lottery Fund.
Free training is also available to schools in south east England.
Lessons are interactive, thought provoking and designed to address epilepsy awareness, dispel common myths, provide strategies for tackling stigma and promote empathy amongst peers. Lesson materials have been developed for all key stages and natural links exist between our work and the PSHE, Citizenship and Science curriculum.
We strongly encourage all schools to appoint an Epilepsy Champion who can act as a point of contact between Young Epilepsy and their school. They will learn how to produce an effective epilepsy policy and can use our resources and guidance to develop the recommended individual healthcare plans.
Education officers are also available to deliver staff training in schools. This will enable all staff including teachers, SENCOs, teaching assistants, learning support workers, first aiders and dinner staff to feel confident in supporting any children who have epilepsy. Training will be tailored to the school’s needs but will always include information on recognising and managing various types of seizure.
To find out more or to make a booking for us to visit your school, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01342 832243 ext 511 (for South East England) or ext 295 (for outer London).
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