Introduction
Teachers play an important role in supporting children, young people and students living with epilepsy. They are key contributors to ensuring their safety, inclusion and wellbeing in and outside the classroom.
Whether you are a childcare worker, primary or secondary school teacher, community tutor, trainer, university lecturer, or youth worker, you play an important role in enabling someone’s success in learning and social activities.
This page outlines resources of relevance to teachers, and offers some simple tips for you to consider when supporting learners of any age.
Support and training for teachers
Early years, primary and secondary teachers can learn more about how to promote epilepsy awareness, provide individualised support and risk management through contacting our Epilepsy New Zealand staff, who can provide training, support and resources.
Things to remember
- Given appropriate support, people living with epilepsy can achieve success in a variety of organised learning, recreational and social activities.
- People living with epilepsy have the right to education, and are protected from discrimination under the law.
- People living with epilepsy have diverse learning needs and goals, and should not be treated as a uniform group.
- Epilepsy is more than the seizures. Epilepsy can have an impact on learning, mental health and lifestyle, all of which can affect a young person’s experience in organised learning, social and recreational activities.
- If you haven’t already, it may be worth developing and implementing an access and equity policy to address physical, attitudinal and structural barriers to promote the inclusion of all young people in your services, including those with disabilities and chronic health conditions.
- Good communication is essential to supporting someone with epilepsy. Ensure that you voice any concerns you have with the appropriate person or people, which may include the person with epilepsy, a parent/guardian and your supervisor.