Learning Support When Your Child Has High Health Needs

What support is available if my child has high health needs?

The Ministry of Education can support your child to continue their education if they can't go to school. This could be because they are very sick or they have a severe medical condition and need support to be able to be at school safely.

There are 2 types of support available.

Teacher aide support through the School High Health Needs Fund

The School High Health Needs Fund helps students learn to manage their care needs safely, to the best of their ability. Many students become independent in managing their healthcare needs. A small number of students may need the fund's support throughout their schooling.

Teacher support through the regional health schools

Teachers can teach your child in hospital, at home or other settings if they can't go to school because they're sick. You'll need a medical certificate that says what your child's condition is, what treatment they are having, and how it's stopping your child from going to school.

For more information, see the KidsHealth page about education when your child is in hospital.

Who can I talk to if I want to know more about the School High Health Needs Fund?

If you have any questions, you can ring your local Ministry of Education office, talk to your child's class or form teacher, or the principal of your child's school. For teacher support, you can also contact the regional health school that's closest to you (links below).

See more KidsHealth information about Learning Support

Find out what Learning Support is

Learning Support before school

See the KidsHealth page on Learning Support before your child goes to school

Learning Support at school

See the KidsHealth page on Learning Support when your child is at school

Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS)

See the KidsHealth page about Learning Support when your child has significant needs