You need written consent
Get written consent from a parent/carer before you give a child under 16 any medication.
This applies to all cases, except in 'exceptional circumstances' where the medicine has been prescribed without the knowledge of a parent/carer (e.g. contraceptives). In this case, encourage the pupil to involve a parent/carer while respecting their right to confidentiality.
Only administer medicine at school when it would be detrimental to a child’s health or school attendance not to do so.
This is outlined in the DfE's guidance on supporting pupils with medical conditions at school (page 20). This guidance is statutory for:
- Maintained schools
- Academies (including alternative provision academies)
- Pupil referral units (PRUs)
It's also a useful reference for other settings, such as independent schools.
Read our article on administering medicines to pupils – it has a printable list of 'dos' and 'don'ts' that your staff can refer to.
The DfE's guidance on supporting pupils