ABSTRACT

Teachers can make school a positive experience by supporting the pupil in the following ways:

be a positive role model for the other pupils by responding in a confident, calm and positive manner to the pupil with epilepsy;

treat the pupil exactly the same as the others in the class and give appropriate responses, which should help to normalise the condition;

avoid regarding the pupil’s condition as an illness;

also avoid letting him/her use epilepsy as an excuse;

help to develop the pupil’s confidence and encourage him/her to deal with new or difficult situations;

accept that the pupil may feel angry and resentful about the condition at times;

be aware of the pupil’s seizure type, the Individual Health Care Plan and where medication is stored;

monitor and record changes in behaviour, mood and performance, as well as physical stamina, academic achievement and social interaction since this may help in the review of medication.