Epilepsy and teaching

[Myusername2015]

I'm a private school teacher in a solo department working with 14-19 year olds. In the last year I have been absent after collapses with what I now know is epilepsy. I would like to return to the classroom now but work do not agree; they have sent me to occupational health who agree there is a health and safety risk with the students being emotionally impacted by watching seizures.
I've asked the Union for advice and they haven't really helped at all. Any advice?

I'm sorry that I don't have any wisdom to add, but I am curious as to whether they are able to refuse you going back to work. We teach kids with a variety of conditions including epilepsy, and other students may witness seizures etc., so I'm unsure how them being exposed to you seizing is much different. I have worked with staff who have had a range of conditions - one of them had epilepsy and the students were briefed on what to do if they had a seizure (ie go and seek help). I hope that you get some answers.

EDITED to add - I recognise a teacher seizing has a different impact to another student, as there is then no adult in the room to manage the situation, but I don't think writing you off from the classroom is the answer.

This is disability discrimination covered under the Equalities Act.
I’d contact your union for support and advice.

More advice below and they have a helpline.

https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/living/your-rights

My DH has epilepsy and went into teaching during his 50s with no problems. He didnt stay long as it didnt suit him but nothing to do with epilepsy.