Important Health Notice: Severe Nut Allergy in school

Dear Parents and Carers of St Cuthbert’s,

We are writing to inform you that we have children on roll at St Cuthbert’s who have a severe allergy to nuts. This allergy is life-threatening and can be triggered not only by eating nuts but also by contact with nut oils, residues or airborne particles.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all our pupils, we kindly ask for your cooperation in making our school environment as safe as possible in reference to any packed lunches you choose to send into school.

Before you read on, could I please remind you that all of our Reception and KS1 children are entitled to a Universal Infant Free School Meal. All meals served in St Cuthbert’s from our kitchen are allergen compliant and completely nut free.

In respect of children who are bringing their own packed lunch instead of accessing their free school meal, we are asking for your support with the following measures:

Please do not send any nuts or nut products in your child’s packed lunch or snacks. This includes items such as:

·         Peanut butter

·         Nutella or other chocolate spreads containing nuts

·         Cereal bars or baked goods with nuts

·         Any foods containing nut oils

Wherever possible, please try and avoid:

·         Any food labelled ‘may contain nuts’

·         Any food labelled ‘may have been made in a factory where nuts are used’

Please check food labels carefully before packing your child’s lunch or snack.

Education and Awareness

·         Staff are trained in allergy awareness and emergency procedures, including the use of EpiPens (Jext Pens).

·         We will be educating the children in an age-appropriate way about allergies and the importance of not sharing food.

If you are opting for a packed lunch for your child instead of their free school meal, we understand that this may require some adjustments on your behalf. We fully appreciate your support in helping us create a safe and inclusive environment for all children.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school office.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Best wishes,

Mrs Anne Bullerwell

Executive Headteacher