School has an important role in maintaining some normality whilst your child is undergoing treatment, and also in promoting their recovery once treatment is complete. Many children are able to continue attending their own school during treatment, sometimes on a part time or flexible basis. Others will attend hospital school or participate in education at home. To ensure schools are fully aware of your child’s condition and particular needs, a specialist nurse (Paediatric Oncology Outreach Nurse/Macmillan Nurse or Neuro-Oncology Outreach Nurse) will visit the school to discuss their requirements. It is perfectly safe for the majority of children to return to school during treatment, if your child’s immunity is suppressed the nurse will clarify which infections school need to be aware of and explain any necessary precautions. This will all be detailed in an individual care plan given to school.

Absence from school, treatment and the disease itself can sometimes affect learning, your specialist nurse can help to ensure that any additional support required is provided by the school.

Good communication between home and school will help to ensure your child’s needs are fully understood and met, identifying a key worker at school helps ensure important information is shared effectively. It is absolutely normal to feel anxious about your child returning to school however the psychological, social and educational benefits are considerable. In addition to supporting your child’s ongoing education, the benefit of children/young people spending time with peers, and maintaining some normal routine during treatment should not be underestimated. If you do have any particular concerns however, please don’t hesitate to discuss these with your child’s consultant or outreach nurse.

Sources:

https://www.cclg.org.uk/write/MediaUploads/Publications/PDFs/Supporting_your_pupil.pdf

https://www.clicsargent.org.uk/life-with-cancer/my-child-has-cancer/school/