School Activities

The safety of some school activities can come into question when a child has epilepsy, however an individual assessment should be made in all subjects. The following are common areas where consideration of the child's individual needs represents good practice.

Swimming

Whether a student can take part in swimming depends on the type and frequency of seizures they experience. Each student with epilepsy needs to be assessed on an individual basis. Adequate supervision of every child is essential, and in some cases, this may need to be on a one to one basis. In some cases a buddy system can be used, where all swimmers swim in pairs, looking out for one another.

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Sport and leisure

The individual’s seizure pattern will indicate what a student with epilepsy can and cannot do. With informed, qualified supervision and the necessary safety precautions, students with epilepsy should be able to participate fully in most, if not all, activities. For further advice on individuals’ safety needs, consult with the student and their parents or carers, along with their healthcare professionals if necessary.

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Educational visits

Under the Disability Discrimination Act no student can be excluded from an educational visit unless there is a health and safety issue. The suitability for each visit for each student needs to be assessed on an individual basis. The student’s seizure type and frequency, the location and activities, and how help could be obtained if needed, all need to be considered.

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Epilepsy Action's comprehensive manual 'Positive Action in Education' details the consideration of school activities and outlines safety measures as well as suggesting strategies for dealing with epilepsy in the classroom. It is available to purchase for £16.50 a copy or can be taken free as a benefit of joining Epilepsy Action as a professional member.

May 2006