How The Beacon Is Supporting Children with Allergies
We are strengthening our approach to allergy awareness and anaphylaxis management, ensuring pupils with allergies and dietary intolerances can feel safe, included and confident throughout their school day.
In February 2026, the Government formally passed Benedict’s Law, introducing mandatory, statutory allergy guidance for schools in England through the Department for Education. With the introduction of new allergy safety guidance through Benedict’s Law in September 2026, The Beacon is committed to building on the school’s stringent measures already in place, whilst further strengthening staff training and awareness to ensure the whole school community is prepared to respond appropriately to allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.
At mealtimes, we work closely with parents and its school catering team to understand each child’s individual allergies and dietary requirements. This collaborative approach helps ensure pupils are appropriately supported and can still enjoy nutritious meals alongside their peers.
Staff training is also being extended across the school. All staff will receive allergy and anaphylaxis training, combining online learning with in-house training delivered by the school matrons. Whilst this training has previously only been provided to staff attending trips and matches, it will now be extended to the wider school team, ensuring colleagues across all areas of school life have the knowledge and confidence to respond appropriately.
The school also has appropriate arrangements in place for the safe storage of spare emergency adrenaline auto-injectors and inhalers, providing an additional layer of protection for pupils who may require emergency medication.
Importantly, our approach extends beyond the classroom. We are committed to ensuring that allergies do not prevent children from experiencing the full breadth of Beacon life, from clubs, trips and sporting fixtures to performances, activities and school events.
Our Head of Medical Centre, Fiona Ensor, stated,
“Supporting children with allergies is an important part of creating an environment where every pupil feels confident to participate fully in school life.”
By continuing to strengthen allergy awareness, staff training, policies and communication with families, we are ensuring that children with allergies can take part fully in school life whilst still receiving the individual support they need.
