What support is available if my child has high health needs?
There are 2 types of support available for tamariki (children) with high health needs.
Teacher aide support through the School High Health Needs Fund
The School High Health Needs Fund gives a contribution towards the employment of a teacher aide. This support is to help students learn to manage their healthcare needs safely and 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 in other settings if they can't go to school because they're currently unwell.
To access this support, you will need a medical certificate that says:
- what your child’s condition is
- how it’s being treated
- how it’s stopping them 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.
Check the Ministry of Education website for contact details.
You can also talk to your child's teacher, dean, or principal. For teacher support, you can also contact the regional health school that's closest to you. See the regional health school links near the bottom of this page.
See more KidsHealth information about Learning Support
Find out what learning support is
See the KidsHealth page on learning support before your child goes to school
See the KidsHealth page on learning support when your child is at school
See the KidsHealth page about learning support when your child has significant needs
Acknowledgements
The Paediatric Society of New Zealand acknowledge the cooperation of the Ministry of Education | Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga in making this content available to parents, caregivers and whānau.
