Supporting Children with Medical Needs

At Madginford Primary School, we recognise that some children may have medical needs which require additional support during the school day.

An Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) ensures that everyone understands a child’s medical needs, the support required and how we can help them participate fully in school life.

Our aim is to ensure children feel safe, included and confident while managing their health needs.

What is an Individual Healthcare Plan?

An Individual Healthcare Plan is a written document that explains how a child’s medical needs will be supported in school.

It may include:

• information about the child’s medical condition;
• symptoms and signs to be aware of;
• medication requirements;
• emergency procedures;
• support needed during the school day;
• adjustments needed to access learning and activities.

The plan is personalised to the individual child and their needs.

Who Might Need an Individual Healthcare Plan?

An IHP may be appropriate for children with medical conditions such as:

• asthma;
• allergies requiring emergency medication;
• diabetes;
• epilepsy;
• physical health conditions;
• long-term medical needs.

Not every child with a medical condition will require an Individual Healthcare Plan. This is considered on an individual basis with families and healthcare professionals.

Working Together to Create a Plan

Individual Healthcare Plans are developed in partnership with:

• parents and carers;
• the child, where appropriate;
• school staff;
• healthcare professionals.

Parents and carers provide important information about:

• their child’s condition;
• their child’s usual routines;
• signs that support may be needed;
• effective strategies and treatments.

What Support May Be Included?

Depending on a child’s needs, support may include:

• access to medication;
• trained staff;
• emergency procedures;
• adjustments to activities;
• support during trips and visits;
• arrangements for physical access;
• communication with families.

Our aim is always to enable children to take part fully in school life.

Medication in School

If medication is required during the school day:

• parents and carers must provide clear written information;
• medication must be supplied according to school procedures;
• staff supporting medication will receive appropriate guidance or training where required.

Further information can be found in our Supporting Pupils with Medical Conditions Policy.

Reviewing Individual Healthcare Plans

Healthcare plans are reviewed regularly and whenever there are changes to:

• a child’s medical condition;
• medication or treatment;
• advice from healthcare professionals;
• the support required in school.

Keeping plans up to date ensures children receive safe and effective support.

Supporting Inclusion

A medical condition should not prevent a child from accessing learning, friendships or wider school experiences.

At Madginford Primary School, we work to remove barriers and make reasonable adjustments so that children can:

• participate fully;
• develop independence;
• feel confident and included;
• achieve their potential.

Contacting Our SEND Team

If your child has a medical need or you would like to discuss support arrangements, please contact the school.

SENDCo: Mrs S Farrell
School Office Email: office@mps.kent.sch.uk
Telephone: 01622 734539

At Madginford Primary School, we work in partnership with families to ensure every child is safe, supported and able to flourish.

Every child. Every opportunity. Every success.