Supporting young people with epilepsy

Welcome

This guide is for people who work in schools or other educational settings.  It provides wide-ranging information, guidance and educational strategies for supporting young people with epilepsy to ensure they are safe and included in all aspects of school life.   

Schools should ensure each young person with epilepsy has an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) and that the school has a policy on supporting pupils with medical conditions.

Good communication between the school, parents and the young person plays a key role in ensuring the right support is in place.

All staff working with a young person with epilepsy should also be trained to understand the young person’s condition and its impact on their life at school.

If you’re a parent or young person, please share this guide with your school. We also have lots of useful information for parents on our website and for young people here.

About the Guide for Schools

This guide outlines the key elements of support.

You’ll also find useful information on seizure types, triggers, treatments and first aid, keeping accurate seizure records, and emergency medication.

The guide has information on how epilepsy can impact on young people’s learning, emotions and behaviour.

The guide also includes an overview on the different legal framework and guidance for each UK nation relating to medical conditions, disability and education, and special educational needs.