School education in hospital
Staying in hospital may be a significant disruption in a young
person’s life. It may be the first time they have been separated
from their family. Being in hospital may be the result of a
particularly traumatic episode or may mark the onset of a condition
that will impact their future.
Being admitted into the busy life of a hospital may cause
considerable anxiety in addition to the sometimes invasive and
painful procedures that may be needed. Potentially in this
situation young people can lose contact with their friends and peer
groups or miss important parts of their schooling.
Education while a young person is in hospital is conducted by
staff from the pupil referral unit. They work across the hospital
either from small bases connected to paediatric wards or teach on
the wards at the bedside. The teaching and support staff contact
the young person’s school to discuss work and establish continuity
within the young person’s learning.
The team at the Royal London Hospital PRU will be working with
the young person whilst they are in hospital to minimise the effect
that a period in hospital may have and facilitate continuity in
learning.
The team can provide advice and information to others working
with the young person that will support both their stay in hospital
and their return to school. This team works closely with the young
person’s school and other medical professionals.
The team can provide training to others on how longer term
conditions may affect learning and prepare others in the school to
help their transition. They may also be able to provide the contact
information of other teachers working in hospitals outside Tower
Hamlets.
The team will also be able to signpost to other professionals
within the hospital that may assist the planning around young
people.
For more information contact:
Pupil Referral Unit
Tower Hamlets Directorate of Children’s Services
Mulbery Place
5 Clove Crescent
London E14 2BG
Tel: 020 7364 5006
Email: childrensservices@towerhamlets.gov.uk