Eating disorders as special educational needs
Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, ARFID, and others) are serious mental health conditions that significantly impact education. A child with an eating disorder may have poor concentration due to malnourishment, miss school due to medical appointments or deteriorating health, experience anxiety and depression affecting learning, need meal support during the school day, or need modified PE. These impacts constitute special educational needs - and an EHCP can ensure the school understands this and provides appropriate support.
CAMHS provision and waiting lists
Children with eating disorders need specialist mental health support (CAMHS - Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). But CAMHS waiting lists are dangerously long. While waiting for treatment, your child's EHCP should specify what school-based support is available: pastoral care, anxiety management, social support, liaison with CAMHS. The EHCP ensures support continues while waiting for specialist help.
Medical monitoring and meal support
Children with eating disorders may need medical monitoring (blood tests, heart monitoring, weight monitoring) and nutritional support. Some need support at mealtimes - either from school staff or, if the eating disorder is severe, from a feeding team. Your EHCP should address these needs. Health provision (Section G) should include liaison with medical teams, and educational provision (Section F) should include any support needed around eating, exercise, or monitoring during the school day.
Managing exercise and PE
Children with eating disorders (particularly anorexia) often exercise excessively to burn calories. PE and school activities may exacerbate the disorder. Your EHCP should include clear protocols about exercise - possibly modified or supervised PE, or alternative physical activities. The school must understand that inappropriate exercise management can worsen the eating disorder and undermine treatment. This is health and safety, not discipline.
Reintegration and recovery
As your child recovers, the EHCP should support graduated reintegration to full schooling - rebuilding confidence, managing anxiety, re-engaging with peers and learning. Some children need reduced timetables initially, gradual increase in expectations, and close monitoring. The EHCP should evolve as your child improves, gradually reducing support as they build resilience and recover. Recovery from eating disorders is possible, and school support is an essential part of that process.