Overview

If your child’s Paediatrician or other specialist consultant feels your child is too unwell to attend school and the school are unable to provide suitable education, you can ask your child’s school to make a referral for temporary ‘medical tuition’.

Your consultant will also need to complete a medical evidence form which clearly states how much education can be provided without causing a negative impact on your child’s medical condition.

Education is provided by a local Pupil Referral Unit dependent on the advice provided by the consultant. Half-termly reviews with updated advice from a medical practitioner are required with the aim of returning your child to school as swiftly as possible. It is expected that special schools will make appropriate provisions for children on their roll who are unable to attend school because of their health needs.

Somerset Local Authority policy for the education of children and young people unable to attend school because of health needs

This policy sets out the Somerset Local Authority standards for the education of children and young people who are unable to attend school because of health needs.

PDF, 487 KB

School transport assistance for a child with medical needs

If you wish to apply for travel assistance for compulsory age children (age 5 to 16) including beyond statutory walking distance, route safety, low income, SEND, temporary medical needs, and exceptional circumstances please fill out the online form below.

This form has 7 to 9 pages – depending on your selections – and will take about 10 minutes to complete.