Supporting Children with Allergies

At Meadows Primary School and Nursery, the health, safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment where children with allergies can thrive, participate fully in school life and feel confident that their needs are understood and supported. Our Allergy Leader is Mrs Ann Cox.

We recognise that allergies can range from mild reactions to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis. We work closely with parents, carers, healthcare professionals and our staff team to ensure that appropriate measures are in place to keep children safe throughout the school day.

What We Do

Individual Healthcare Plans

Children with diagnosed allergies that require management in school will have an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP). These plans are developed in partnership with parents and carers and outline:

• Details of the child's allergy
• Known triggers and allergens
• Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction
• Emergency procedures
• Medication requirements
• Staff responsibilities and training needs

Healthcare Plans are reviewed regularly and whenever a child's medical needs change.

Staff Training

Our staff receive appropriate training to help them:

• Recognise the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions
• Understand children's individual healthcare plans
• Respond quickly and effectively in an emergency
• Administer prescribed medication, including adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs), where appropriate

Medication

Where prescribed, emergency medication such as adrenaline auto-injectors is stored safely and is readily accessible when required.

Staff are informed of the location of emergency medication and appropriate arrangements are made for school visits, sporting events and other activities beyond the classroom.

We also have our own life-saving adrenaline pens in school, for situations whereby a child shows signs of anaphylaxis. 

Communication

We believe that strong communication between home and school is essential.

Parents and carers are asked to:

• Inform the school of any diagnosed allergies or changes to medical needs
• Provide up-to-date medication where required
• Attend review meetings when requested
• Ensure emergency contact details remain current

Food and Allergies

While it is impossible to guarantee an allergen-free environment, we take sensible and proportionate steps to minimise risks.

These include:

• Sharing relevant allergy information with staff on a need-to-know basis
• Reviewing classroom activities where food may be used
• Careful planning of educational visits and enrichment activities
• Working closely with catering providers regarding dietary requirements
• Promoting good handwashing and hygiene practices throughout the school day

We ask all parents and carers to support us by carefully considering the food items sent into school and following any specific guidance provided regarding allergies.

Educational Visits and School Activities

Children with allergies should be able to enjoy all aspects of school life.

Before visits, events or residential experiences take place, staff complete risk assessments and review any relevant healthcare plans to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place.

Emergency medication will accompany children where required, and accompanying staff will be aware of the child's needs and emergency procedures.

Our Commitment

At Meadows Primary School we are committed to:

✅ Promoting awareness and understanding of allergies

✅ Supporting children to be safe, included and successful

✅ Working closely with families and healthcare professionals

✅ Ensuring staff are appropriately trained and prepared

✅ Creating a culture of care, vigilance and inclusion

We believe that every child should feel safe, valued and able to participate fully in all aspects of school life.

Further Information

Click here to view our Allergy Management Policy

If you would like to discuss your child's allergy or medical needs, please contact the school office who will be happy to assist and arrange a conversation with an appropriate member of staff.

Together, we can ensure that every child is safe, supported and able to flourish at Meadows Primary School.