Published online by Cambridge University Press: 12 February 2016
This paper introduces to school personnel some important issues with regard to chronic illness in children and adolescents. Current approaches to understanding the adaptation of young people to chronic illness are introduced, and the present state of knowledge about its psychosocial impact is outlined. Specific effects on education are then discussed, followed by a consideration of the role of school personnel, particularly guidance officers and school counsellors, in ensuring that the needs of students with chronic illnesses are appropriately met.