Allergies
Understanding allergies to ensure the safety of our students.
Allergies are common and increasing in Australia, affecting around 1 in 5 people.
While some allergies cause a mild reaction, others can cause anaphylaxis, which is a severe, rapidly progressive allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening.
Allergy Aware
Our aim is to inform staff, parents, and students about the risks of allergies and also to provide a supportive environment in which children at risk of anaphylaxis can feel safe.
Our school stocks adrenaline autoinjectors (e.g., EpiPens) in case of anaphylaxis and our staff receive annual training on how to handle allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, including the proper and safe use of adrenaline autoinjectors.
Students with allergies have an Action Plan, which is kept in their classroom along with their medication and their photograph.
Food Allergies
Food allergies affect around 1 in 10 one-year-old children in Australia and, while some allergic reactions are mild, some can be severe, and even life-threatening.
The most common food allergens in children are:
- Peanuts
- Almonds
- Cashews
- Hazelnut
- Pistachio
- Walnuts
- Macadamia Nuts
- Brazil Nuts
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Fish and Shellfish
- Wheat
- Soy
- Sesame
The key to the prevention of anaphylaxis in schools is having knowledge of the student who is at risk, increasing awareness of confirmed allergens, and preventing exposure to known allergens. Partnerships between the School and parents/carers are important in helping the student avoid exposure to allergens.
Nuts
Allergy to nuts is a prevalent concern among children, and the School is committed to safeguarding those with nut allergies while also fostering their growth in understanding and responsibility regarding their dietary choices and potential risks. Therefore, we kindly request that your child refrain from bringing nuts or nut products onto school grounds, including:
- Packs of nuts
- Peanut butter sandwiches
- Nutella sandwiches
- Fruit and cereal bars that contain nuts
- Chocolate bars or sweets that contain nuts
- Sesame seed rolls (children allergic to nuts may also have a severe reaction to sesame)
- Cakes made with nuts
- Any home-cooked meals for packed lunches that are made from nuts