Welfare and Medicines
There may be times your child is poorly. We use the the public health (see below) and NHS guidance as to whether your child is allowed to be in school. If they are poorly enough to need calopl then please do keep them at home.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/is-my-child-too-ill-for-school/
Medicines in School
We can only administer medication in school if:
- It has been prescribed by a Doctor, is in the original packaging and with the pharmacy label on it with your child’s name.
- You have signed a consent form for Paracetamol/Ibuprofen and antihistamine and if we feel it is necessary to enable your child to remain in school.
- Trained staff oversee the administration of the medication, which has been supplied by the parent.
Inhalers and other portable medical treatment
Some children require daily medication as part of a health care plan such as inhalers or insulin. If your child will be needing ongoing medication, please book an appointment with the school office to fill in an Individual Health Care Plan. (IHCP)
For some medication such as inhalers and Epi-pens, we ask that you provide two of each (and a spacer for an inhaler). One is kept securely in the classroom for easy access and one in the medical room. These must be clearly named and in date. It is the parent’s responsibility to supply the appropriate medication and ensure that it is in date.
If larger essential medical equipment is required for school trips such as portable nebulizers, then the parent must supply the equipment to the school in a bag that is named and the machine/unit is complete and ready for use. The parent/carers should note that the school cannot be held responsible for loss, damage, maintenance of any piece of equipment.
Managing Outbreaks and Incidences
We follow the NHS guidance on managing outbreaks and incidences. We only notify parents when advised to in the guidance. We teach children good hygiene practices, ensure there is sufficient ventilation and ensure key touch points are cleaned thoroughly.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-protection-in-schools-and-other-childcare-facilities/managing-outbreaks-and-incidents
The basic principle advocated by the UK Health Security Agency, is that children who are showing the symptoms of an infectious disease or have been diagnosed by a health professional or diagnostic test could be advised to stay away from their setting for the minimum period recommended, if required, and until well enough and to inform school.
To find out if, and how long, children should be advised to stay off school, please check the table for public health exclusions.
- Spreads like Nutella or peanut butter
- Cereal bars, biscuits, or cakes containing nuts
- Pesto and certain satay sauces
- Whole or chopped nuts as snacks
- Individual Healthcare Plans (IHCP): We work closely with parents and medical professionals to create tailored care plans for every child with a known allergy.
- Staff Training: All school staff receive regular training on how to recognise the signs of an allergic reaction and how to administer emergency medication, including adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs/EpiPens).
- Emergency Medication: Prescribed allergy medications are stored safely in an accessible location, clearly labelled, and regularly checked for expiry dates. The school also holds back-up emergency auto-injectors.
- Safe Dining Practices: Catering staff are fully trained in allergen management. We strictly enforce a no-sharing food policy among pupils during break times and lunch.
- Inclusive Activities: We ensure all school trips, cooking lessons, and celebrations are planned with food allergies in mind so no child is excluded.
- Informing Us: Notify the school office immediately if your child develops a new allergy or if their medication needs change.
- Checking Labels: Carefully check the ingredients of all foods sent in for packed lunches, snacks, or class celebrations.
- Talking to Your Child: Remind your child why we do not share food or drinks at school.
