CEO Carol Ireland explains how Epilepsy Action Australia is delivering professional learning sessions to educators to better support students with epilepsy.
Having worked in the sector for over 18 years, I have gained valuable insight into the challenges faced by children with epilepsy. I have witnessed firsthand the profound difference that awareness and education can make in improving their quality of life. In Australia, approximately one in 200 children live with epilepsy1, that’s likely at least one child in every school or childcare centre. Despite its prevalence, epilepsy is often misunderstood, leaving children isolated and at risk of stigma.
Educators and childcare providers can feel unsure or unprepared when it comes to supporting a child with epilepsy. Currently, only a small portion of schools across Australia have participated in Epilepsy Action Australia’s training courses for epilepsy and seizure first aid. With over 9,600 schools nationwide2, imagine the difference it would make if every educator had the knowledge and confidence to create a safe and supportive space for these children.
By empowering educators with appropriate training, we can create a world where children with epilepsy feel supported and can thrive.
Epilepsy Action Australia has been on a mission to address these challenges, by offering training courses to schools and childcare centres across Australia. Working with epilepsy specialist registered nurses and other professionals, we have developed comprehensive online training programs tailored to the needs of educators and school staff, and offer unique materials delivered in an interactive way to enhance skills and knowledge absorption. Through training courses like Epilepsy Essentials and Emergency Medication, educators and carers can gain invaluable insights into epilepsy management and seizure first aid, equipping them to create safer and more supportive classrooms.
Courses are modelled on real-life scenarios, which increases the engagement in learning, whilst also increasing the likelihood of transferring skills learned in training to real-world tasks. One powerful example is the Emergency Medication course. For students who require emergency medication to stop seizures, this training and competency assessment by an Epilepsy Action Australia specialist epilepsy nurse can literally be lifesaving. Educators and childcare providers will learn not only how to administer medication, but also the critical skills needed to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
Ms Genevieve Dennis, Principal of Padstow North Public School in NSW, shared how Epilepsy Action Australia has made a meaningful impact on her school community.
“Epilepsy Action Australia delivered professional learning sessions to staff at the school to better support our students with epilepsy. These sessions included valuable input from staff and parents, as well as a thorough review of our Epilepsy Care Plan. This collaboration has enhanced our school’s capacity to provide tailored care and ensure a safer, more supportive environment for students with epilepsy.”
Similarly, Hallett Cove Preschool Director and teacher Ms Kate Foreman said her team undertook epilepsy training with Epilepsy Action Australia after a child with epilepsy joined the preschool.
“We felt it was crucial to complete this training regardless of whether we had a child with epilepsy in our care. The trainer was excellent – knowledgeable and thorough, providing clear explanations that were both informative and practical,” she said.
Epilepsy training is a vital investment in our children’s future. For a small cost, we can significantly improve their chances for a successful, fulfilling life by equipping schools and childcare centres to provide the support they need. I encourage schools, educators and childcare providers to explore Epilepsy Action Australia’s training courses as a valuable addition to their ongoing professional development this school term.
The depth of this training course will equip them with the confidence and essential skills to respond effectively, especially when a child with a diagnosis of epilepsy is enrolled. Visit https://learn.epilepsy.org.au/w/events for more information on the training courses.
References:
1. The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. About Epilepsy. Accessed 11 Sept 2024. https://www.rch.org.au/neurology/patient_information/about_epilepsy/
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics. Schools. Accessed 18 Nov 2024. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/education/schools/latest-release
About the author
Carol Ireland has an extensive background spanning 40 years in the not-for-profit human services sector, holding a variety of executive positions and with particular focus on service development and marketing. Carol serves on numerous government, university and industry boards and advisory councils, representing the needs of consumers. She is a strong and active advocate for people living with epilepsy.
