School supervised medication

The primary aim of educating children and young people who have medical needs is to minimise, as far as possible, the disruption to normal schooling by continuing education as normally as the incapacity allows. Enabling children and young people to access education appropriate to their medical condition is important to their future mental and physical development.

Having positive policies on medication and supporting pupils' medical needs will not only help protect a pupil's heath and safety but will help them take a full a part as possible in school activities. All schools should have a policy on the use of medicines in the school.

What rules do schools follow when issuing medication?

All medicines are drugs. The purpose of the school's policy is to ensure that these drugs are taken in an appropriate manner and in a safe environment. The school has a duty, not only for the pupil who requires the medication, but also for the health and safety of other pupils and staff. Each school will therefore take into account a number of factors in drawing up their policy and will have agreed the policy having consulted with a range of people and with advice and guidance available from the Local Education Authority, Health Authority and the Department of Education & Skills.

How can I get information about my child's school medication policy?

If you require information about a particular school's policy, you should contact the school direct and they will be able to provide you with details. Questions on individual school policies should be addressed to the headteacher of the school concerned. Additional advice and guidance is also available on the gov.uk website.