Epilepsy can start at any age and there are many different types – some last for a limited time but others can be a life-long condition.
It is one of the most common neurological conditions in the world, affecting about one in 100 people in the UK. This means that, on average, it will affect one child in a primary school and around five pupils in a secondary.
Possible causes of epilepsy
- Brain damage, for example damage caused by a stroke, head injury or infection
- Brain tumours
- The way the brain developed in the womb
- Changes in a person’s genes
However, in around half of all people with epilepsy, the cause is unknown. Doctors believe that some types are genetic, and research continues into which genes are involved.
Pupils with epilepsy will likely be taking anti-seizure medication, which help to reduce the severity and incidence of seizures. Around a third of people cannot be treated with medication but may need surgery.
Although epilepsy may not affect behaviour or learning ability, children with the condition tend to underperform in school because it affects their self-esteem and confidence, and may require them to be absent for recovery. They may also have side effects from medication and be prone to tiredness and emotional disorders, which are co-occurring conditions.
Parent-school cooperation
It is important for parents to alert the school about the child’s condition, including what type of seizures they have and what happens when these occur.
Schools should also be aware of what the triggers are, how to manage a seizure and what support the children needs, and when a seizure becomes an emergency.
A child with epilepsy should have an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) that outlines in detail the support they need, and this should be updated regularly as the child goes through school.
Supporting a child with epilepsy in the classroom
Every school should have an epilepsy policy to ensure the child has an equal change to learn, which should include what to do when a seizure occurs. It should also outline how the school should support learning if the child is misses lessons frequently because of their epilepsy.
To support a child with epilepsy you should:
- Ensure staff are trained in first aid and medication administration. They should be familiar with the “Calm, Cushion, Call” approach: stay CALM, CUSHION the child’s head, and CALL for help
- Make reasonable adjustments to the routine to enable the child to take part in academic and sporting activities
- Provide opportunities for rest and recharging, if needed
- Ensure the IHP is shared with all relevant staff and that it gives the child a way to communicate their needs
- Minimise hazards in the classroom, creating clear paths to exits. Provide a space where the child can recover after a seizure
- Try not to be over-protective and help the child to enjoy school as normally as possible
- Keep a record of seizures and share this information with parents in a diary or the IHP
Legal Rights
The Equality Act (England, Wales, Scotland) or the SENDO (Northern Ireland) protects children with epilepsy from discrimination.
*For further information go to Young Epilepsy or Epilepsy Action for information and support for teachers and families.
