Almost all teachers have children with food allergies in their schools, yet over two-thirds have no allergy awareness training, according to a poll.
The survey of almost 1,900 members of the NASUWT teaching union was published to coincide with the launch of a new allergy support programme for schools.
It reveals that 95 per cent of teachers have children with food allergies in school, but some 67 per cent do not have allergy awareness training.
Two-thirds of teachers want more allergy training
Figures suggest around two children in every classroom have a food allergy, and 20 per cent of food allergic reactions occur in schools.
But the poll revealed that one in five teachers has never been taught how to administer an adrenaline auto-injector which could save a life in a food allergy emergency, and 60 per cent did not know, or were unsure, if their school had an allergy policy.
Almost two-thirds (62 per cent) said they would find it useful to have more training and resources.
NASUWT general secretary Patrick Roach said the poll results demonstrate how essential it is that children and staff in schools with food allergies get the help they need to keep them safe.
“This includes ensuring that schools are given the support, advice and resources they need to establish effective allergy management policies, and that action can be taken to protect those in schools with food allergies from harm.
“This important survey highlights the fact that many teachers, including those with food allergies, remain concerned and we want the government to ensure that more is done to support schools in this critical area.”
New Allergy School programme launched
The survey comes as a £1 million programme has been launched, providing free training for teachers alongside resources for nurseries, primary schools and out-of-school clubs and groups to encourage greater awareness and understanding of food allergies.
The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation - set up in memory of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, 15, who died after eating a Pret-a-Manger baguette containing sesame - created the Allergy School programme after discovering the majority of teachers have had no allergy awareness training.
Allergy School has been developed in part with the King’s Foundation, which was founded by King Charles who sent a message of support.
He said: “I am delighted to hear of the launch of Allergy School, the new educational programme by the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation.”
Improving understanding important ‘to keep children safe’
“Improving understanding of this issue is so important for keeping children with food allergies safe and ensuring they are able to participate fully in activities at school or in our wider communities,” the King added.
The programme includes films, lesson plans and assembly packs created in partnership with the King’s Foundation, Coram Life Education, St John Ambulance and Tesco Stronger Starts.
To enhance the new films, Arlo, a friendly, food-allergic armadillo, a puppet created by Sesame Street puppeteer Warrick Brownlow-Pike, will help teach children about allergies in a positive way.
Natasha’s mother, Tanya Ednan-Laperouse, said the government, schools, teachers, parents and pupils need to come together to support children with food allergies in this country.
Stephen Morgan, minister for early years education, said: “I encourage all settings to make use of engaging programmes such as these, alongside taking the necessary steps to manage allergy risks as clearly set out in the government’s allergy guidance.”
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