School Support Programme
Practical, emotional and educational support for children, classmates, families and schools
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, school life can become complicated and overwhelming. Children may miss long periods of class, classmates can feel unsure how to help, teachers may lack confidence in supporting the child, and parents often struggle to balance treatment and education.
The Lennox School Support Programme bridges this gap. We work with children, parents, teachers and entire school communities to ensure a child remains included, supported and understood throughout their cancer journey, whether they are learning from home, hospital or returning after treatment.
This programme is led by our dedicated Schools Coordinator, who is a qualified teacher with experience supporting children with additional needs, managing reintegration, and guiding school staff through sensitive and complex situations.
How We Support Children
We help children with cancer stay connected, confident and included by offering:
- guidance on staying engaged in their learning
- emotional support during periods away from school
- liaison between home, hospital and school
- help with reintegration after long absences
- support with fatigue, anxiety and appearance-related worries
- preparation for transitioning back into the school environment
Every child’s situation is unique, we tailor our approach to their needs, abilities and treatment schedule.
How We Support Classmates
Children are naturally empathetic but often unsure how to react when a friend becomes seriously ill. We offer:
- age-appropriate workshops and assemblies
- information about what cancer is and what it is not
- guidance on kindness, empathy and inclusion
- support to help pupils express and manage their own feelings
- practical ways classmates can support their friend
These sessions help reduce stigma, prevent isolation and encourage strong, supportive friendships.
How We Support Teachers and School Staff
Teachers frequently tell us they feel unprepared, worried about “saying the wrong thing” or unsure what adjustments a child needs.
Our Schools Coordinator, a qualified teacher provides:
- guidance on reintegration plans
- support with phased returns
- advice on reasonable adjustments
- SENCO and pastoral team support
- confidence dealing with questions from pupils
- help understanding medical, emotional and behavioural changes
- ongoing liaison with parents and healthcare teams
This ensures staff feel informed, supported and confident in meeting the child’s needs.
How We Support Parents and Carers
Navigating school during cancer treatment can be stressful for parents. We offer:
- advice on communicating with school
- support with reintegration planning
- resources for helping siblings
- emotional support during difficult stages
- reassurance and guidance throughout the process
Our goal is to reduce pressure and help families feel supported every step of the way.
Workshops and Assemblies
We deliver engaging, age-appropriate sessions that help schools build a compassionate and informed community. Topics include:
- understanding childhood cancer
- common signs and symptoms
- what treatment looks like
- myths and misconceptions
- how to support a friend with cancer
- the importance of kindness and inclusion
These workshops empower pupils and staff with knowledge and confidence.
Reintegration After Treatment
Returning to school after treatment or long absences can be daunting. We support schools by:
- preparing classmates for the child’s return
- advising staff on medical and emotional considerations
- explaining changes in appearance or energy levels
- helping create phased return plans
- ensuring the child feels safe, welcomed and understood
Our reintegration guidance is based on educational expertise and a deep understanding of the cancer journey.
Support for Schools Following a Child’s Death
If a child tragically passes away, the impact on a school community is profound. Many teachers feel unprepared for how to support pupils or handle communication.
We provide:
- guidance for teachers on age-appropriate conversations
- classroom grief support
- resources for parents
- support for siblings and close friends
- advice on memorials, communication and safeguarding
- emotional support for school staff
We help schools navigate an incredibly difficult time with sensitivity and care.
Who Can Access This Programme
The School Support Programme is available to:
- children and young people with cancer
- siblings
- classmates
- teachers and school staff
- SENCOs and pastoral teams
- school leadership
- parents and carers
All support is provided free of charge.
Get Support
If your school is supporting a child with cancer, or if you are a parent seeking help with educational support, we are here for you.
We will help you put the right support in place quickly and sensitively.
How we help
We are here to help children and their families through childhood cancer with our six pillars of support. Find out how we can help and support your family below.
