Our services

Concussion support for schools

Our free, evidence-based resources and support help schools confidently recognise, manage, and communicate about concussion. Generously funded by Freemasons Foundation.

Why it matters

Concussions are common in children and teens – around 37% of concussion claims in Aotearoa are for those under 19 years old.

Concussions can impact a student’s learning, behaviour, mood, and ability to participate in sport and daily life. Schools often play a key role in recognising a suspected concussion and supporting recovery.

When schools effectively and confidently manage concussions, our young people experience better outcomes. We aim to help schools achieve this while reducing the burden and workload on schools.


Resources and Support

Our resources and support are informed by HeadSmart Schools NZ, latest research, and practical feedback from schools and school nurses about what works and what will really help.

The Resource Kit is free to download. The documents are editable so that schools can make them their own.

Short, practical FREE education workshops/talks can be delivered in person or online for:

  • Staff – staff meetings
  • Sports departments, coaches, and sports musters
  • Students
  • Wider school community including whānau

Sessions are tailored to the audience and can include:

  • recognising and responding to a suspected concussion
  • supporting recovery
  • responsibilities – within school, community, and ACC/healthcare system
  • school policies/systems
  • concerns about CTE/long term brain health

Fully funded thanks to Freemasons Foundation.

Headsmart Resource Pack

Everything your school needs to recognise, respond to, and support recovery:

  • Concussion Management Process
  • Suspected Concussion Incident Report
  • Whānau Notification of Suspected Concussion
  • Concussion Advice for Whānau
  • Return to Learn Plan
  • Return to Sport Plan
  • Headway Posters (printable)
  • Headway Postcards (printable)
  • ACC Concussion Advice for Patients
  • ACC Sports Concussion Guidelines

FREE for NZ schools, generously funded by Freemasons Foundation.

Support and Workshops

Connect with one of the Headway team about staff training, community talks or whatever concussion support your school needs.