Letters for the school

Our GPs are often asked if they will write a letter to the school of a child who is struggling to attend full time education for anxiety, mental health or another health reason.

Often the school will say they cannot allow absence unless it has been determined by a doctor that it is in the child’s best interests to have part time education. The parent/carer then comes to see a GP and is hopeful we can certify the child should not be in school full time. Unfortunately, this is not something we can do.

When it comes to determining if a child is fit for school, it’s important to note that GPs are not able to provide sickness certification for pupils who are off sick from school. The responsibility for managing school attendance and determining whether an absence is legitimate typically falls to the parents and the school. For short-term illnesses (less than 7 days), schools are expected to accept self-certification or a note from the pupil’s parent or guardian. GPs are not required to provide medical certificates for these short-term absences. If the child was seen by the GP at the time of the illness, we can provide a printout of the consultation as proof if the school insists on it; however, they should not require this.

If a child has a long-term condition or requires support during the school day, any necessary certification can only be provided by the specialist responsible for their care.

In cases of recurrent short-term illnesses, the school and pupil entitlement should manage the situation in consultation with the parent(s) and the child.

Our GPs will of course be happy to see any child that requires continued support and can refer to the wellbeing team/CAMHS/paediatrics if appropriate; however, we cannot write letters to the schools stating the child needs part time education.

We naturally feel for the child and the parent. However, our GPs have limitations and we can only provide a printed summary of the current problems that are on the medical record and any relevant copies of consultations.

Thank you.