An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a personalised document that outlines the support a child needs to thrive in school. For children affected by cancer, an IEP can help teachers understand how treatment has impacted learning, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing, and what adjustments may be needed.
IEPs are not just for academic support. They can include strategies for managing fatigue, emotional health, social reintegration, and more.
Why an IEP Can Help
Every child’s experience is different. An IEP ensures that their unique needs are recognised and supported consistently across the school day.
- It provides clarity for teachers and staff
- It helps track progress and adjust support over time
- It gives parents a voice in shaping their child’s school experience
- It can include both formal and informal strategies
Tip: Even if your child doesn’t qualify for a formal IEP, many schools offer informal support plans. Ask what’s available.
What to Include
An IEP should reflect your child’s current needs and be flexible enough to change as they grow stronger or face new challenges.
- Medical background (as relevant to learning)
- Fatigue levels and cognitive changes
- Emotional and behavioural considerations
- Social needs and peer relationships
- Preferred learning styles or classroom adjustments
- Support strategies and who is responsible for each
Tip: Keep language simple and specific. This helps teachers apply the plan easily in real classroom settings.
Working with the School
Creating an IEP is a collaborative process. You don’t need to have all the answers. Just a clear picture of what’s working and what’s not.
- Schedule a meeting with the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) or pastoral lead
- Bring notes or examples from home and previous school reports
- Ask for regular reviews to keep the plan up to date
- Encourage open communication between school and home
Tip: If possible, include your child in the conversation. Their voice matters.
Final Thoughts
An IEP is more than a document. It’s a shared commitment to helping your child succeed. With the right support in place, children affected by cancer can feel safe, understood, and ready to learn.
You’re not alone in this. Schools want to help. And together, you can build a plan that works.