PANS PANDAS Awareness Day on 9th October is a chance to bring much-needed attention to two complex, post-infectious medical conditions that can deeply affect a child or young person’s ability to engage in education. Symptoms often come on suddenly and may be misinterpreted as behavioural issues, neurodivergence*, or purely mental health challenges. It’s vital that education professionals are aware that: These conditions can trigger OCD, tics, eating restrictions, and significant cognitive and emotional changes. Early recognition and medical treatment are key to recovery. Families are often the first to notice changes, and schools can play a vital role in building a fuller picture and working in partnership. PANS and PANDAS are recognised by the NHS, with UK clinical guidelines endorsed by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) and Local Authority guidance both expected in 2026. PANS PANDAS UK will be at the TES SEND Show tomorrow and Saturday, please come and visit us at Stand J62 to access resources, speak with the team, and learn more about how these conditions affect children and young people in the classroom.  To understand more about their impact, we encourage you to hear directly from children, young people and the families themselves. https://youtu.be/bH-8T4ClDZk?si=fs5NQlhGS-INuX7J  *Neurodivergent children and young people can also develop PANS or PANDAS - more information is available here- https://panspandasuk.org/neurodivergence/