Ulcerative Colitis in School: 13 Tips for Parents and Teachers

Imagine this for me. Your child is in school suffering from ulcerative colitis, sat in a classroom, desperately needing to go to the toilet, but too embarrassed to put their hand up to ask the teacher to go. Or maybe they’re having a flare up and are missing lots of lessons and you’re getting chased by the school because of low attendance.

As a parent, it’s heartbreaking. But the good news is there are practical steps that the school can take — working with you — to make your child’s experience in school a whole lot better.

Here are 13 things we’ve put in place for our child at school to make sure that she’s got the right support. These steps can make a real difference so she can just enjoy being a kid when she’s in school rather than constantly worrying about her health.

Although I’m writing about ulcerative colitis, the things I’ll share here could be applied to a wide range of conditions.

1. IHCP: Why Every Child with Ulcerative Colitis Needs One
   Every child with a long-term health condition is entitled to an IHCP. This is a written document agreed between parents and the school, and it can include input from other healthcare professionals. It outlines your child’s condition, treatment, and what to do should your child become unwell at school. Having this in place is a brilliant foundation, and it makes sure that everyone is on the same page.
2. School Policies for Children with UC and IBD
   Most schools have policies documenting how they will support children with long-term health difficulties. Don’t be afraid to ask to see the policy at your child’s school. They should be available on the school website, so go to the policy section and find the one about long-term health conditions.
3. How a Toilet Pass Helps Kids with UC, Crohn’s, or a J-Pouch
   A toilet pass is an absolute essential. It gives your child permission to leave the classroom whenever they need to, without raising their hand or waiting for permission. Some schools hand out small cards or lanyards, while others mark it digitally on the register. This takes away embarrassment and anxiety, and allows your child to go when it’s quieter instead of waiting in long queues at break.
4. PE and Ulcerative Colitis: Flexibility is Key
   PE can be tricky during a flare up, and even in remission your child may not have the same stamina as their peers. The IHCP can document how the school supports PE. This could include lighter duties or sitting out altogether if needed. Alternative arrangements, like going to the library to do homework, can also help reduce pressure.
5. Storing and Managing Medicines in School with IBD
   Some children need to take medicines during the school day — tablets, nutritional drinks, or supplements. Schools should store these safely and securely for your child to access. Include this information in the IHCP. If your child is on treatments like Infliximab, which restrict vaccines, make sure staff know this. Parents should include a note on the IHCP documenting what to do if their child is exposed to illness such as chickenpox or shingles if treatments increase risk factors.
6. Diet and Snacks at School with Ulcerative Colitis
   Food plays a big role in IBD management. Your child may need specific snacks at certain times or nutritional supplements during the school day. Document this in the IHCP and talk it through with teachers. On trips, plan ahead for lunches — either from home or with arrangements from the school.
7. Extra Time in Exams and Access Arrangements for UC
   Inflammatory bowel disease can affect learning and attendance. Your child may need flexible homework deadlines, a reduced timetable during flares, or access arrangements in exams. These can include extra time, toilet breaks, or sitting in a room near the toilet. These are legal rights under UK disability law, not perks.
8. IBD and School Trips: How to Prepare
   Trips are part of school life, but they can be daunting with IBD. Schools should complete proper risk assessments to make sure your child has full access. Toilet availability, accommodation, and food should be considered when planning trips. Parents can refer staff back to the IHCP when trips are planned, and get involved early in the process.
9. Managing Absences and Hospital Appointments with UC
   Children with UC or Crohn’s often have regular hospital or GP appointments. Document these in the IHCP. Parents can give hospital letters to the school as proof of a medical visit. This will stop the school marking the absence as unauthorised. Even phone-booked appointments can generate a letter or email if you request one.
10. Raising Staff Awareness and Emergency Plans for UC
    It’s not just teachers who need to know about your child’s condition. Office staff, receptionists, and school nurses also need to be aware. Staff will then understand the needs of your child. For example, your child may need to phone home, or take medicines during the day. Your child should keep an emergency change of clothes in school. This allows your child to change at school if any accidents happen.
11. Emotional Support for Children with Ulcerative Colitis
    Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s, J-pouches, and stomas don’t just affect the body — they can impact emotional wellbeing. Children may feel embarrassed or isolated. You should ask about additional pastoral support so your child has a trusted person to talk to, regardless if the issue is health, friendships, or bullying.
12. Communication Between Parents and Schools with UC
    Clear communication makes life easier. This could be a homework diary, an app, or just regular chats at pick-up and drop-off. When an issue comes up, a good communication system helps parents and teachers resolve it quickly.
13. Being an Advocate for Your Child with Ulcerative Colitis
    Finally, be your child’s best advocate. Meetings with schools can feel intimidating, but remember you know your child best. Don’t be afraid to challenge when needed and explain their condition clearly. Your voice makes sure your child gets the support they need to thrive at school.

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Want to dive deeper into what living with ulcerative colitis and J-Pouch really feels like?
My book Ulcerative Colitis: Generations Apart shares the journey across two generations — raw, honest, and full of hope.
Find out more HERE

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Closing Thoughts

There are 13 tips here to help ensure that your child has a positive experience at school and that their illness doesn’t get in the way.

It can feel overwhelming, but having the right systems in place — with the IHCP at the foundation — can take away so much stress.

To see the full video where I talk about this please watch below, or take a look at the Pouch Heals YouTube Channel HERE