We are unable to get involved in school related issues including the following:
Sick notes for children’s illness
Schools do not require a sick note from a GP for children’s absences due to illness. Schools accept a note from a parent or guardian explaining the reason for the absence. A prescription, appointment card or information from the NHS App can also be used as evidence of a medical appointment or illness. GPs are not able to provide fit notes for children. Fit notes (previously sick notes) are only available for adults so they can claim sick pay.
Sick notes for exams
GPs are not required to provide sick notes for students who miss an exam or believe their performance was affected due to illness. The Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency (Ofqual) state that this should be dealt with by the school – see Letter from the General Practitioners Committee (GPC) to Ofqual and their reply.pdf
Reasonable Adjustments and Special Consideration for Exams
Reasonable adjustments and special consideration for exams are managed by the school with support from SENCO. GPs are not able to issue these. If health information is required, this will be requested by SENCO with the GP or hospital specialist.
Over the Counter Medicines for school
GPs are not able to issue over the counter medicines (non-prescription medicines) for administration in school. These can be given by the school under specific circumstances with parental consent and adherence to school policies. Speak to your school for more information.
Toilet pass or period pass
Period or toilet passes are implemented in some schools to support students to discreetly leave the classroom to use the toilet. Since the Children and Families Act of 2014, schools have a duty to support children with medical conditions, including bowel and bladder problems. Both systems are managed by the school and GPs are not able to issue toilet or period passes.
Hospital or specialist certification
If your child suffers from a long-term condition which is impacting upon their school education, their hospital specialist will be able to provide certification for the school. GPs are not able to issue this on behalf of the hospital specialist.