Type 1 Diabetes at school: a back-to-school checklist for parents

Starting school, moving class or changing schools with Type 1 Diabetes can feel daunting, for children and parents alike. A bit of planning makes a huge difference. Here's the checklist we use.

1. Agree an Individual Healthcare Plan

In England, schools have a legal duty to support pupils with medical conditions such as Type 1 Diabetes. Your child should have an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP), written with you, the school and your diabetes team. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have similar guidance.

A good plan covers:

• Who checks blood glucose, and when.
• How insulin is given at lunch, and who helps.
• Signs of a hypo (low) and a hyper (high), and exactly what to do.
• Arrangements for PE, clubs, exams and trips.
• Who to call, and when.

Ask for it to be reviewed at least once a year, and whenever your child's treatment changes.

2. Make sure staff are trained

Your diabetes team can often help train school staff. Make sure more than one adult knows what to do, including lunchtime staff and supply teachers, and that the plan travels with your child to clubs and trips.

3. Pack a hypo kit (or two)

• Fast-acting glucose, as recommended by your diabetes team.
• Longer-acting snacks for afterwards, if advised.
• Blood glucose meter and spare supplies, even if your child uses a CGM.
• A copy of the hypo treatment steps.

Keep one kit in the classroom and one wherever your child goes, such as PE, the playground and trips.

4. Plan for PE and sport

Activity usually lowers blood glucose, sometimes hours later. Ask that your child can check before PE, keep hypo treatment nearby and stop if they feel low. There's more on this in our sport and exercise guide.

5. Let them check, snack and drink

Your child should always be allowed to check their levels, eat when they need to, drink water and go to the toilet, including in lessons and exams. Agree a discreet signal with their teacher if that helps them feel comfortable.

6. Plan for exams and trips

Children with Type 1 can apply for access arrangements in exams, such as extra time if they need to treat a hypo. Speak to the school early. For trips and residentials, plan meals, supplies and overnight checks together well in advance.

7. Help classmates understand

Some children love telling their class about Type 1; others would rather keep it private. Let your child choose. A story like Captain Lantus, read in class or an assembly, can explain Type 1 in a fun, positive way.

Free guide

Our free School Hero guide walks children through their school team, feeling low, supplies, PE and trips. It's great to share with teachers too.

Please note: this article is general information written by a parent, not medical advice. Always follow the plan and advice of your child's diabetes team.

Gary RapsonMax's dad and the author of the Captain Lantus books. Max was diagnosed with Type 1 at 18 months old.