Allergies - Keeping our School Community Safe
At Priory School, the safety and wellbeing of every student is one of our highest priorities. We have members of our school community with severe, life-threatening allergies, and we ask all parents, carers, students and visitors to support our Nut-Aware approach.
By working together, we can help create a safe, inclusive environment where all students can learn, participate and thrive.
Understanding Severe Allergies
Food allergies can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening reactions known as anaphylaxis. Even small amounts of an allergen can trigger symptoms in some individuals, which is why awareness and vigilance are so important.
We are committed to providing appropriate support for students with allergies through staff training, individual healthcare plans, emergency procedures and ongoing communication with families.
Benedict's Law
You may have heard of Benedict's Law, introduced following the tragic death of five-year-old Benedict Blythe after a severe allergic reaction.
The legislation and accompanying guidance strengthen expectations for how schools support children with severe allergies, including:
- Staff training and awareness
- Individual healthcare plans
- Emergency response procedures
- Communication with families
- Access to emergency medication
You can find out more about Benedict's Law on the official website:
www.benedictblythe.com/benedicts-law
Why We Are a Nut-Aware School
Whilst we take every reasonable step to minimise risk, national allergy organisations advise that no school can guarantee a completely nut-free environment.
A Nut-Aware approach promotes shared responsibility and encourages everyone in our school community to remain alert to the risks associated with severe allergies. It helps create a culture of consideration, understanding and safety.
How Families Can Help
To reduce the risk of accidental exposure, we ask families to:
- Avoid sending peanuts, tree nuts or nut-based products into school.
- Avoid sending food items labelled "may contain nuts".
- Remind students not to share food or drinks with others.
- Ensure that any food provided for bake sales, celebrations or other events is accompanied by clear ingredient and allergen information.
What We Do in School
Our staff are committed to supporting students with allergies and will:
- Complete regular allergy awareness and anaphylaxis training.
- Follow individual healthcare plans for students with diagnosed allergies.
- Recognise the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions.
- Respond promptly and appropriately in an emergency.
- Promote allergy awareness and safe food practices across the school community.
If a Nut Product Is Brought Into School
We understand that mistakes can happen. If a nut-containing product is brought into school, a member of staff will discreetly remove the item and store it safely until the end of the school day. The item can then be returned to the student before they leave school, and a reminder of our Nut-Aware approach may be shared with home.
Adrenaline Auto-Injectors (AAIs)
Students who have been prescribed an Adrenaline Auto-Injector (AAI), such as an EpiPen, should have two in-date devices available in school at all times, in line with their healthcare plan.
These should be readily accessible and accompany students during PE lessons, educational visits and sporting fixtures where required.
Working Together
Keeping students with severe allergies safe is a shared responsibility. We are grateful for the support and cooperation of our families and wider community in helping us maintain a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
If you would like to discuss your child's allergy needs or have any questions about our Nut-Aware approach, please contact the school office, who will be happy to help.
