N-ABLES – the National ABI Education and Learning Syndicate – is offering schools free resources to help support these pupils, including when they return to the classroom after sustained periods away. The resources are aimed at both teachers and SENCOs.
The resources include a back-to-school booklet, poster and checklists which will help professionals involved in helping children with ABI prepare for a successful return and to help progress their recovery. There are also resources to support information-sharing at school.
The SENCO/keyworker checklist and supporting information documents are practical resources for educational professionals to share information about a brain injury, and ensure that all vital steps have been carried out before the child returns to school.
The N-ABLES website also offers case studies of children with ABI aimed at illustrating the complexities they can often face. The case studies include:
- Freya, who as a year 9 student was hit by a car crossing the road and needed extensive neurorehabilitation to learn to speak, smile, stand, and walk again.
- Brittney, who was knocked down by a car on her way to school and missed most of year 7. All her teachers needed to understand what impact the brain injury will continue to have.
- Alice had viral encephalitis when she was aged six and her school took time to organise the support she needed on her return.
A spokesperson from N-ABLES said: “Our aim for these resources is that they can support all education professionals in gaining a minimum level of awareness and understanding about ABI and the educational requirements of children and young people with this condition.
“We also hope that through these easy to use practical resources, educational professionals can gain confidence in supporting children with ABI, and children will receive the support they require.”