Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Clinical work and small-scale research with families of children and young people (CYP) diagnosed with a brain tumour (BT) highlighted significant issues with returning to school. The process was often reported to be delayed and extremely stressful for CYP, and families felt schools were frequently underprepared and slow to respond to the CYP's needs. Learning from one young man's experience, in particular, led to discussions about the need for a clear, collaborative return to school pathway and guidance. METHOD: Initial meetings between the local Educational Psychology (EP) service, a YP with a BT and his parents, and the paediatric neuropsychology service at a regional centre, led to plans for the development of a collaborative return to school pathway and guidance document. Contributions were sought from key agencies involved in supporting CYP with a BT, including neuro-oncology keyworkers and teaching staff. RESULTS: A return to school pathway and guidance document was produced. This outlines involvement and responsibilities of key agencies, and provides information for schools around preparing staff, pupils and the environment for the CYP's return. Best practice examples and a school action checklist are included. The document also outlines the respective roles of the EP service, neuropsychologists, and keyworkers in supporting the process. The pathway is now being piloted in the county. CONCLUSION: Concerns about poor return to school experience of many BT patients led to the development of a pathway document for local education services. It aims to build on previous experience and promote collaboration between key agencies to maximise opportunities for CYP with a BT to make a positive return to school.
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