ASCL agrees that ensuring schools are equipped with clear guidance and can produce policies to support consistent practice in supporting medical needs is vital for keeping our learners safe. However, the additional responsibilities for clinical interventions, staff training and ensuring medical oversight at a whole school level is a significant responsibility that should not sit with schools alone.

Cuts to clinical services have shifted healthcare responsibilities to non-clinical school staff performing complex procedures like catheterisation and tracheostomy care. This exposes staff and pupils to unacceptable risk, exceeds schools' statutory responsibilities, and requires robust NHS-commissioned clinical nursing services in schools.

Full response to consultation