Back to School with Coeliac Disease - My Top Tips for Parents & Pupils 📚

Whether you're a parent of a newly diagnosed child or a student heading back to school yourself, I’ve got your gluten-free back! Starting a new school year can be overwhelming enough add coeliac disease into the mix, and it can feel even more daunting. But with the right steps in place, school can be a safe and supportive space. Here's everything you need to know:

1️⃣ Create an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHCP)

This is essential! An IHCP is a formal document involving healthcare professionals, school staff, and parents that outlines how a student’s medical needs will be supported in school. You can find the template and guidance on the UK government website. Make sure it’s up to date and includes coeliac-specific needs.

2️⃣ Gluten Free School Catering

All schools should make reasonable adjustments and provide gluten free options for meals. Whether it’s lunch, snack time, bake sales, or birthday parties your child should never be left out. Don’t be afraid to speak to the school kitchen or headteacher directly.

3️⃣ Label Everything!

Clearly label lunchboxes, snacks, or anything your child brings to school. This acts as a reminder to staff and other pupils that your child has coeliac disease. I also recommend a coeliac awareness keyring or bracelet—cute, practical, and potentially life-saving!

🛍 I sell products including stickers, keyrings, and bracelets so be sure to grab yours today!

4️⃣ School Trips & Special Events

Make sure any school trip involving food includes a gluten free meal option. For overnight trips, work with the school to ensure safe meals are planned ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute start the conversation early!

5️⃣ Gluten-Free Playtime

For younger children, non-food items can still be a risk. Things like regular Play-Doh, pasta in sensory bins, or even shared snacks during crafts can contain gluten. Schools should either avoid these or provide gluten free alternatives (like gluten free pasta or safe modelling dough).

6️⃣ Secondary School & Extra Time

This one’s often overlooked: if coeliac disease affects your energy levels, digestion, or brain fog, ask about extra time or inclusive learning plans. I didn’t realise I could access this until university don't wait that long! Speak to your SENCO or support staff.

7️⃣ Always Have Snacks

Whether you're a parent or student never leave home without a gluten free snack. You never know when you'll need it. If you have a locker, keep a stash in there too!

8️⃣ Confidence is Key

Never be ashamed of having coeliac disease. Yes, it can be annoying. Yes, people might make insensitive jokes. But you deserve to be safe and included. Your true friends will support you and those who don’t? Not worth your energy.

🎓 P.S. I also have a full blog post with University Coeliac Advice for older students or parents of teens heading to college check that out on my website!

✨ Have a great school year and remember: being coeliac doesn’t mean missing out it just means planning ahead. You’ve got this! 💛