Recognition of all seizure types is vital if epilepsy is to be understood and responded to appropriately

Not all people with epilepsy experience major convulsive seizures. For those who do, the nature, frequency and severity of the seizure will vary greatly between individuals.

With complex partial seizures some may exhibit unusual behaviour, for example, plucking at clothes, or repetitive movements. They may experience strange sensations, or become confused; they may also experience convulsions and or loss of consciousness.

Some experience absence seizures. These short periods of staring or blanking out are non- convulsive generalised seizures. They are most often seen in children.

Young people having this kind of seizure are momentarily completely unaware of anything around them, but quickly return to full consciousness without falling or loss of muscle control. These seizures are so brief that the person may not notice that anything has happened. Parents, teachers and learning support staff may think that the pupil is being inattentive or is day-dreaming.

These and the many other seizure types are described, shown on video, and discussed during both the half day course and the short presentation.