Children with long-term medical needs in the class

Educational rehabilitation is inadequately supplied, developed, and cared for within the Hungarian public education system. Teachers lack sufficient information and tools to effectively teach and integrate the growing number of students with long-term medical needs or mental health issues. The project was born to provide systemic professional support for the situation. Our goal is to furnish teachers with the knowledge and specialized methodological tools necessary to support the reintegration process and education of students with medical needs.

The WHO HBSC-Survey 2022 study reports that 22% of Hungarian schoolchildren have a medical condition that affects their daily activities, and 20% have psychological and/or chronic illnesses. Limited resources and cooperation between healthcare and education make it difficult for teachers to support ill students. Stigma fosters fear and hinders teamwork, making teachers feel apprehensive and straining communication.

A professional network for teachers is provided to support students with illnesses in the classroom. Through our advocacy and lobbying, we ensure centralised access to our methods and resources. We organise workshops nationwide to prepare and empower teachers to support chronically ill students and advocate for their inclusive education. We aim to create social impact by cultivating an accepting and supportive ethos in teachers for future generations. 

Participants at multiple levels are engaged by directly involving teachers, social workers, and healthcare professionals to ensure the children's educational rehabilitation and reintegration at school. Led by our professional team and supported by partnerships in education, healthcare, and social sectors, we ensure a comprehensive approach to supporting children with illnesses. 

The initiative increases teachers' understanding of the barriers students with long-term medical or mental health conditions face when reintegrating into the classroom. By equipping teachers with this knowledge and potential strategies, they will be better able to provide support. This approach ensures students can re-enter a supportive, nurturing educational and social environment. 

Many elements of our project are adaptable. By translating our methodological handbook into English and making it available free of charge, we aim to share our expertise with the public. Our teacher training and stakeholder engagement strategies can be adapted to different professions and localities. We are also keen to share our approaches and lessons learned.