At UTC Plymouth, the health, safety and wellbeing of our students is our highest priority. We understand that some students may need to take prescribed medication during the school day and we have clear procedures in place to ensure this is managed safely and responsibly. 

Whilst we will do our very best to administer medicines at the time required we cannot guarantee this will always be the case. For children who need medication linked to a serious health condition we will guarantee the administration of the medicine at the required time. 

Our Approach 

• Safety first: All medication is stored securely and administered in line with medical guidance. 

• Parental responsibility: Parents/carers must provide written consent and clear instructions before any medication can be given in school. 

• Staff training: Designated staff are trained to administer medication and record each instance accurately. 

• Student independence: Where appropriate, older students may be supported to self‑administer their medication under supervision. 

What Parents Need to Do 

If your child requires medication during the school day: 

1. Complete a consent form – available from the school office or downloadable below. 

2. Provide medication in its original packaging – clearly labelled with your child’s name, dosage and instructions. 

3. Communicate clearly – inform the school of any changes to dosage or medical needs immediately. 

4. Emergency medication – such as inhalers, epi‑pens or insulin, should be handed directly to staff to be kept accessible at all times. All students that require use of these emergency medications will have a risk assessment to suit their specific needs. 

Medication Consent Form -  

 

Types of Medication (Make this into an infographic)  

• Short‑term medication: For temporary conditions (e.g., antibiotics). 

• Long‑term medication: For ongoing conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes). 

• Emergency medication: For immediate use in case of allergic reactions, seizures, or other urgent medical needs. 

Please note: Paracetamol can be administered in school with parental consent. Ibuprofen, however, can only be given if accompanied by a doctor’s prescription and written confirmation. 

Record Keeping 

Every time medication is administered, staff will: 

• Record the date, time and name of the staff member. 

• Ensure parents/carers are informed if there are any concerns or missed doses. 

• Keep records securely in line with GDPR and safeguarding requirements. 

Supporting Students with Medical Conditions 

We work closely with families and healthcare professionals to create Individual Healthcare Plans (IHPs) for students with long‑term or complex medical needs. These plans outline: 

• The student’s condition and treatment 

• Emergency procedures 

• Roles and responsibilities of staff, parents/carers and the student 

Useful Links 

• NHS – Medicines in School Guidance https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ 

• Plymouth City Council – Health and Wellbeing Services https://www.plymouthonlinedirectory.com/healthandwellbeing 

• Asthma UK – School Support https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/advice/child/school/?scrlybrkr=f4b5ca3f 

• Diabetes UK – Children at School https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/your-child-and-diabetes/school?scrlybrkr=f4b5ca3f 

Contact Us 

If you have any questions about administering medication in school, please contact: reception@utcplymouth.org