Information for schools and colleges
There are 1,100 HIV positive children under the age of 19 living in the United Kingdom. The number of affected children is unknown, but can be estimated at over 10,000. The number of affected children in Jersey is currently unknown.
For the majority of families affected by HIV, the fear of discrimination leads them to decide against telling the school. Non-disclosure means that the child may not receive the emotional and educational support that may be needed in order to reach his or her academic potential.
There is no known reported case of HIV transmission occurring in a UK school. HIV is a non-notifiable disease, which means that parents or children who are affected or infected may choose not to inform the school. This is because the infected pupil poses no risk to others.
Schools and colleges have an important part to play in providing a supportive caring environment for children. A prejudiced reaction from staff, parents or pupils to a child who is infected or affected by HIV can have a seriously damaging effect on the life of that child.
Creating a supportive and inclusive environment through policy and practice will make a real difference to the lives of infected and affected children. It will prevent exclusion and bullying, and it will encourage educational development, thus improving infected and affected children’s health, well-being and opportunities.
As rates of HIV increase annually, this is an issue that cannot be ignored. A whole school approach to being HIV friendly will challenge the attitudes and misconceptions of the entire school community. By putting in place a few simple systems, schools can protect and support these more vulnerable pupils.
This section of our website includes information about Creating a School/College Policy to protect and support pupils and students affected by HIV and information about ACET’s Training Courses which equip staff teams with the information and resources they need to work towards an HIV-friendly school.
Last updated April 2010