NURS-14. SUPPORTING ONGOING SCHOOL EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH A CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM TUMOUR DIAGNOSIS

Abstract A diagnosis of cancer often/usually results in prolonged school absences and disengagement with formal education and peers. The importance of maintaining links with schools/education providers to assist with continuity of learning and social connections has been recognized and documented. As is also well documented, children diagnosed with a central nervous system (CNS) tumour have an even greater potential for ongoing learning issues due to treatment side effects. In 2015, the Women’s and Children’s Hospital Oncology Education Advisory Group (OEAG) was established including nursing, hospital education service (HES) leaders, allied health and psychology staff. The aim of this group was to implement an education support program for children for the duration of their cancer treatment and beyond. The Cancer Care Coordinator Central Nervous System Tumours (CCCCNST) nurse works closely with this group to ensure that a thorough plan is in place for children diagnosed with a CNS tumour. This includes but is not limited to, initial discussions with HES and CCCCNST to formulate an individual plan in collaboration with the family, school visit provided by CCCCNST, HES staff and other community support services as required, ongoing support for the school, access to tutoring programs for the child with a neuro oncology diagnosis, review of education plan at significant time points and long term follow up. The program has proved to be very successful with positive feedback from teaching staff and families. An overview of the model will be presented with feedback to date.