Photo of school student listening to an adult

Key elements of support

Guide for schools

On average, epilepsy affects one young person in every primary school and five in every secondary school. It is one of the most common long term conditions in childhood.

Epilepsy can have a significant impact on a young person, even if seizures are controlled.

Schools should have arrangements in place to ensure that young people with epilepsy are safe and included in all aspects of school life.

In this section of the guide

Individual Healthcare Plans

Every young person with epilepsy in school should have an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP). Find out what an IHP should include and download a template.

Communication & sharing information

Communication and information sharing are essential to supporting a young person with epilepsy, keeping them safe and including them in all school activities.

Training & awareness

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

Young Epilepsy Guide for Schools

Other sections of the guide that may be of interest

Young Epilepsy Guide for Schools

About seizures

Information about seizure types, triggers, first aid, treatments, records, and emergency medication for schools

Young Epilepsy Guide for Schools

Epilepsy impact on emotions & behaviour

Epilepsy can have a profound effect on a young person's emotions and behaviour, which can produce a range of emotional responses that make academic achievement at school difficult.

Young Epilepsy Guide for Schools

UK legal frameworks

An overview of the different laws and systems in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales