Medical needs

Some children may not be able to attend school for health reasons, for long term or intermittent periods.

For children with SEND, anxiety or sensory overload are common factors affecting attendance, which are sometimes not immediately identified. If you think there may be underlying needs affecting your child’s attendance, discuss and explore with school how these might be supported.

Browse through our dropdowns below to find out what you can expect in different circumstances.

The government guidance ‘Supporting pupils at school with medical conditions‘ says

Governing bodies should ensure that school leaders consult health and social care professionals, pupils and parents to ensure that the needs of children with medical conditions are properly understood and effectively supported.

(Key points, page 4)

It also says…

Schools, local authorities, health professionals, commissioners and other support services should work together to ensure that children with medical conditions receive a full education. In some cases this will require flexibility and involve, for example, programmes of study that rely on part-time attendance at school in combination with alternative provision arranged by the local authority6 . Consideration may also be given to how children will be reintegrated back into school after periods of absence.

6 All children must receive a full-time education, unless this would not be in their best interests because of their health needs

(Page 7, Further advice point 5 and footnote 6)

Individual Healthcare Plans (not to be confused with Education, Health and Care or EHC plans!)

For children with complex health needs.

  • An individual plan may not be appropriate for your child. Talk to school if you are not sure.
  • An Individual healthcare plan will help a school to effectively plan what your child needs, and can provide reassurance about the support plan ie. who will do what, and when.
  • You will be able to share your views and those of your child. Let school know of any changes to your childs needs so the plan can be amended
  • This plan can also include your child’s Special Educational Needs (where an EHC plan is not in place).
  • Though school will be responsible for finalising and maintaining the plan, healthcare and social care or other professionals should be involved in the process
  • Annexe A on page 28 of the guidance for schools (PDF) includes a helpful flowchart of what the process should look like.


Watch ‘Support in schools for pupils with medical conditions’ video

Watch ‘Pupils who cannot attend school for health reasons’ video