I just want teachers to understand what it’s like.Amelia
Imagine going to school every day, hoping your friends and teachers understand what you’re going through. That’s what life is like for Amelia. She has epilepsy, which means she sometimes has seizures that she can’t control.
What Was Hard for Amelia?
At first, Amelia’s teachers and classmates didn’t really know what to do when she had a seizure. Some were nervous and didn’t want to get involved, while others just didn’t understand what was happening. It made Amelia feel left out, like she was different from everyone else.
Sometimes, feeling different can be tough. You might think you don’t fit in or that nobody gets what you’re going through. That’s exactly how Amelia felt.
Amelia’s mum recalls how difficult it was to get teachers to understand her daughter’s condition.
They didn’t know what to do when she had a seizure. Some were scared, others just ignored it.Amelia's mum
Amelia often felt isolated, especially when her seizures were misunderstood or dismissed.
I felt like I was different in a bad way. Like I didn’t belong.Amelia
The Turning Point – what helped Amelia
One day, Amelia’s school worked with Young Epilepsy, a charity that helps young people with epilepsy. They taught everyone—teachers, friends, even Amelia’s classmates—what epilepsy is and what to do when someone has a seizure.
My teachers started to see me as a whole person, not just as someone with epilepsy.Amelia
Her mum noticed a big difference too.
After the training, the teachers felt sure of themselves. They knew how to help, and that made Amelia feel safer.Amelia's mum
Why Educator Training Matters
Epilepsy isn’t the same for everyone. People can have different kinds of seizures, and there are lots of different things that can cause them. That’s why Young Epilepsy teaches schools about all the different ways epilepsy can show up, and how to help kids with it.
It’s not just about being safe during seizures—it’s about making everyone feel like they belong. When teachers and friends know more, they can be there for you in any situation—not just when things get scary.
It’s not just about safety—it’s about belonging.Amelia's mum
Make Your School Epilepsy-Inclusive
Young Epilepsy gives schools free online lessons, fun activities, and cool resources so everyone can learn together. They even have posters and guides for classrooms and teacher’s rooms! Here are some of the things your school can do:
- Take free e-learning courses about epilepsy
- Join in on special awareness days or workshops
- Put up posters in classrooms to remind people what to do
- Get help from Youth Support Services—where you can talk to someone if you need it
How You Can Help
You don’t have to be a teacher to make a difference! If you know someone at school with epilepsy, you can:
- Be a good friend and include them in games and activities
- Learn what to do if they have a seizure—stay calm and get help from an adult
- Ask questions if you’re not sure about something—learning together helps everyone
Let’s Make School Awesome for Everyone
Everyone wants to feel safe, happy, and included at school. When teachers, friends, and students all work together, kids like Amelia can just be themselves—not just someone with a medical condition.
Want to learn more? Ask your teacher to check out Young Epilepsy’s resources or visit their website together. The more we know, the kinder and more supportive our school can be!
