This page provides a brief overview of issues relating to the health of pupils, including those with medical needs, helping to improve concentration through maintaining hydration, promoting mental health in pupils, dealing with medication.

See the DCSF document Managing medicines in schools and Early Years settings for further information and guidance.

There is a variety of information and guidance available to support governors' interest in the health of pupils at their school:

• autism spectrum disorder
• children with eczema 
• maintaining hydration as an aid to concentration
• school meals and nutritional standards.

Other resources are available from a variety of websites that can be accessed via the 'Web links' section below:

• Access to education for children and young people with medical needs
  In situations where sick children cannot be educated at school, governors should ensure that there is close liaison between teachers in the school and the local authority (LA) hospital or home tuition service. DCSF has a website and guidance devoted to education for children and young people that cannot attend school due to illness. See the link to DCSF education for sick children.
  
• Promoting mental health of pupils
  The DCSF Mental Health website contains a guidance document which helps teachers and others to promote mental health. See link to DCSF Mental Health website.
  
• Supporting pupils with medical needs
  Guidance is available on dealing with medication at school as well as broader guidance on supporting children with medical needs. This guide and background information on responsibilities can be downloaded from the TeacherNet website (follow link in 'Web links' below). Circular 14/96 provides information on the legal framework within which mainstream schools and LAs should support children with medical needs. Follow the link in 'Web links' below for more information.