Concussion education for schools

Concussions are common in children and young people — around 37% of concussion claims in Aotearoa are for those under 19. Even when injuries happen outside school, the effects often show up in the classroom. Changes in focus, mood, or energy can be easy to miss but make learning much harder.
With the right support, most students recover well. Headway helps schools recognise the signs and respond with confidence, so every student has the best chance to heal and thrive.

Why this matters:

• Students need support at school: recovery is affected by how teachers, coaches, and peers respond.
• Equity matters: without consistent understanding, some students get good support while others fall behind.
• Mental health links: concussion in youth is associated with higher risk of anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. Schools play a protective role.
• Return to learn: following evidence-based guidelines helps students return safely to learning and sport and prevents longer-term problems.

Our funded school-based workshop is:

• Evidence-informed: aligned with the HeadSmart Schools Programme, developed from the FRANCS study.
• Endorsed by researchers: we work closely with the FRANCS and HeadSmart research team, who recommend schools connect with Headway for education and support.
• Practical and plain language: no medical jargon, no prior knowledge needed.
• Quick and flexible: designed to fit easily into staff PD sessions.

What’s included:

• An overview of concussion and how it affects the brain
• Recognising concussion symptoms and red flags
• Practical ways to support students as they return to learning
• What to say and how to involve whānau
• When to escalate concerns and where to go for more help

Who it’s for:
This session can be modified to meet the needs of your whole school community, including:

• Teachers (primary, intermediate, and secondary).
• Sports and PE staff, coaches, and teams.
• School leaders, deans, nurses, and learning support teams.
• Students, whānau, and the wider community.

• Builds confidence across staff and community – no prior knowledge needed
• Reduces confusion and stress when a student returns to school after injury
• Helps staff spot concussion early
• Gives simple, ready to use tools for class or the field
• Supports your duty of care with research-informed best practice

Our approach
We deliver accessible, high-quality education that helps schools respond with care and confidence. Our focus is ensuring every student with a concussion is recognised early, supported well, and given the best chance of a successful, well-managed Return to Learn.