Going back to school

“Some people’s strategy for coping is to plunge straight back into school, as soon as they possibly can;
others prefer to take things more gently!
Do what works for you!”

When going back to school there are many questions you may want to ask, for example:

• Can you have two sets of books for each subject, one to keep at home and one for school?
  This will save you having to find ways to carry them around
• Can textbooks be accessed via the internet?
• Are the desks or tables at the right height for you?
• Find out where the accessible toilet is and where you can keep a change of clothes in case of accidents
• Store supplies you use often in a place you can easily get to
• Consider how you are going to take part in swimming lessons. Look at the changing facilities , hoist and transport arrangements

Don’t be afraid to ask 

Visit the school to make sure you can get around.
The Occupational Therapy department in the NSIC will help you.

Are desks and tables the right height?

Find out about the subjects you want to take

Ask what you will be doing in PE, Food Technology, Science, and Design Technology -can you access these areas and take part in the activities?

Can you get around the school buildings?

Ask how to use the school lifts and check you can operate them

Every school is required to have an emergency exit plan. Ask your teacher to go over what you should do in an emergency

Where can you keep a change of clothes in case of accidents?

Arrange to store supplies you use often in a place you can easily get to

Find out where the accessible toilet is, and take an extra layer of clothing in case you get cold.