Teachers, SNA's and Lecturers

MANAGING EPILEPSY IN SCHOOL AND COLLEGE

It is important to meet with the student and/or their parents/guardians to complete the Epilepsy Care Plan. All staff looking after the student should be familiar with the agreed care plan and management should be guided by it. In boarding schools or residential colleges similar safety guidance applies as it would at home with regard to bathing, sleep seizures and seizure risk reduction. In college, the student may be expected to be more independent and responsible for their own medication, but care, support and safety needs should be discussed. Management, staff , families and students can work together to better manage epilepsy on campus and improve the student’s educational experience.

SUPPORTING STUDENTS WITH EPILEPSY

Schools, colleges and their staff are uniquely placed to help students develop a positive attitude towards themselves and their epilepsy. Along with parents and families, they play a major role in shaping how well a student copes with the challenges epilepsy can present. A positive attitude to epilepsy is an important predictor of success in later life. Good communication between all parties is important to providing the best support possible. Some students may need emotional support in dealing with epilepsy. Ongoing seizures and safety concerns can be challenging to live with. Students may worry about their future, and about being accepted by peers, so discussing their concerns is very important. Epilepsy is not a mental illness, but, if mental health needs emerge, students and families can be signposted to local services or professional support. There can be a range of reactions within families to a new diagnosis. These can range from shock, disbelief, anger, anxiety, relief or sense of loss. There can be fears about disclosing the diagnosis and how it will be perceived.

EDUCATIONAL ISSUES 

• CURRICULUM: Each student should be encouraged to take courses suited to their aptitude and ability. Flexibility is key to supporting students who struggle with academic workload.
• Physical Education: Students with epilepsy should be encouraged to take part in all games and sports but extra care is needed in areas such as climbing, swimming, and horse-riding
• Department Of Education, NCSE and NEPS: The policy of the Department of Education & Skills is one of inclusion of students with disabilities. For students who cannot attend school for medical reasons the Department’s Home Tuition service provides compensatory education for a limited number of hours. School based support may come in the form of a learning support teacher, a resource teacher, or a special needs assistant.
• State Examinations and Accommodation Measures: Schools and colleges make decisions about which supports to offer for house exams. For state examinations, the student will take the exams in a separate room from the main exam hall. If a seizure occurs during an exam the student may be allowed complete the exam later that day, subject to certain conditions.