As a new school year begins, children and young people are reconnecting with classmates, making plans and settling back into school routines. But for children affected by a brain tumour, returning to school can be a very different experience.
Treatment can mean months away from the classroom and missing the everyday moments that help friendships grow. For some children, this can leave them feeling isolated or disconnected from their peers.
Camille was just two years old when she was diagnosed with an ependymoma brain tumour. Her treatment lasted two years and included high-dose chemotherapy, three brain surgeries and radiotherapy.
Although her school provided SEN support, one of the hardest challenges Camille faced was losing connection with her friends. Invitations to parties stopped coming, friendship groups moved on and, over time, the gap between Camille and her peers grew wider.
Returning to school can feel like stepping back into a world that has continued without you. That’s why helping children maintain friendships and feel included is such an important part of their recovery and wellbeing.
For Patrick, friendship helped him stay connected during an incredibly difficult time. He was six when he was diagnosed with a high-grade malignant brain tumour. Within 36 hours, he had surgery, followed by months of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
While Patrick couldn’t always be at school, his classmates sent him videos, letters and cards. These small acts helped him feel remembered and connected to his friends, even when he couldn’t be there in person.
Friendships can provide a sense of normality, belonging and connection when so much of a child’s life has changed. Staying part of school life, whether that means being in the classroom, joining in remotely or simply knowing their friends are still there, can make a real difference.
At Tom’s Trust, our clinical psychologists work with children, families and schools to help make the transition back to school as positive and supportive as possible.
Camille and her family have been supported by Tom’s Trust in recent years, while Patrick and his family have been supported by our team at Alder Hey.
Support at school