Transitions

Guide for schools

Transitioning from one class or school to another can be stressful for a young person with epilepsy.  

A young person with epilepsy may have built up trusted relationships with other pupils and adults. Preparing the young person for the next stage of their education is key to their confidence, and ultimately their outcomes. 

Preparation could include: 

  • Arranging for the young person and their parents to meet with the new staff 
  • Informal meetings with new classmates 
  • Trial sessions 
  • Additional time to move around the site and find their way around their new setting 

Communication

Communication between staff members is key to ensuring that all those involved have a full understanding of the young person's condition and the impact it has on them.  Ensure that the young person knows who their new key adults are and allow them time to get to know and trust them. 

When a young person with epilepsy moves to another school, it’s essential that all relevant information about their condition and its impact is shared as part of the transition arrangements.  Where possible, a conversation between Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCOs) or Inclusion Leaders should be arranged and the young person and their parents should be informed of what information has been shared. 

In this section of the guide

Sleep

Information about how sleep is affected in pupils with epilepsy.

Attendance

Information about how school attendance is affected in pupils with epilepsy.

Communication

Seizures, related factors and anti-seizure medications can affect a young person communication.

Cognition

Young people with epilepsy can have problems with memory.

Motor skills

Young people with epilepsy may experience problems with motor skills.

Exams and coursework

Information about extra help with exams and coursework for pupils with epilepsy.

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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.

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UK legal frameworks

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

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Key elements of support

The key elements of support that schools should have in place to ensure all young people with epilepsy are safe and included in school life

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About seizures

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