Health and First Aid

Health

Every school is served by the school health team.

Each child completes a health check form before entry to school.  If necessary an appointment can be made with the school doctor.  Children are never examined without the consent of their parents/carers whom we hope will be present.

Hearing tests are carried out in school.  Parents/carers are told the date of the hearing tests but are not automatically invited to attend. They are informed of results.  Please talk to the class teacher if there is a problem identified after a hearing test.

Medicines

We do not give medicines in school.  If your child is taking an antibiotic or other type of medication and the doctor says they can return to school, then a three-times-a-day dose can be fitted in before and after school and finally at bedtime.  If the medicine is four-times-a-day or before food, then you are welcome to come and administer the medicine at lunchtime.  Children who have asthma inhalers in school will need to have completed up-to-date forms either for self-administration or for delegation of nursing duties to staff if the child needs help using an inhaler.  Please be sure to keep us fully supplied with current inhalers and inform us immediately if there are any changes to the medication or management of your child’s asthma.  You are welcome to view the school policy on administration of medicines if you wish.  Please notify us if your child has any allergies.

Head Lice and Threadworms

Do not be alarmed if your child picks up head lice or threadworms.  This is something that may happen from time to time and is not reflection on your standard of cleanliness.  Look closely at your child’s hair every time it is brushed.  Notify the school of any infestation, but please remember that it is your responsibility to keep your child’s hair free from nits.  Should you wish the school health team to contact and advise you, please tell the office.

First Aid

It is absolutely essential that we have an up-to-date address and telephone number for contact AT ALL TIMES.

If your child slightly hurts him/herself at school we think it is important to let you know at the end of the school day.  If your child receives a small injury at school it will be logged in the accident book.  At the end of the school day the teacher will tell you about the accident and ask you to sign against your child’s name in the accident book.  This helps us to make sure that we have communicated this information.  If the accident is more serious and we think it might upset your child to stay in school or it would be best to get the injury checked at the health centre or hospital we will contact you immediately.

Bumped Head Notes

If your child receives a minor bump on the head at school we will telephone you to inform you and give you the opportunity to come and see your child if you would like to.   We will also send a ‘bumped head note’ letting you know that the incident was checked by a First Aider.  The note is to warn you about the possibility of delayed reaction.  If we are at all concerned we contact you immediately.  Please treat every bumped head note seriously.