Managing Allergies in School Clubs and Activities

Schools often provide a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, sports sessions and special interest groups. These activities offer valuable opportunities for pupils to develop new skills, build confidence and socialise.

However, when pupils have allergies, it is essential that these environments are carefully managed to maintain safety and reduce risk.

Food Safety in Clubs and Activities

Food is one of the most important considerations in many school clubs. Snacks, drinks and food-based activities are common, so staff must remain alert to allergen risks.

To reduce risk, staff should:

• Check all food for allergen content
• Be aware of pupils with allergies
• Discourage food sharing between pupils

These simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of accidental exposure to allergens.

Understanding Allergy Management Plans

Staff running clubs and activities must be familiar with the allergy management plans of any pupils attending.

This includes understanding:

• Individual allergy triggers
• Signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction
• What action to take in an emergency

The same duty of care applies outside the classroom as it does during normal school hours.

Access to Emergency Medication

Adrenaline auto-injectors and other emergency medications must always be available when a pupil with a severe allergy is present.

Staff should:

• Know exactly where medication is stored
• Be able to access it quickly
• Feel confident in using it if required

Depending on the situation, medication may be carried by the pupil or held by a designated member of staff during the activity.

Managing Risks from Materials and Activities

Some clubs involve materials that may contain food ingredients or allergens. This is particularly common in:

• Cooking clubs
• Craft sessions
• Science experiments

Ingredients such as milk, eggs, flour and nuts can pose a risk to sensitive pupils.

Staff should always:

• Check materials in advance
• Identify potential allergens
• Consider safer alternatives where needed

Communication and Awareness

Clear communication is essential to ensure pupil safety. Staff organising clubs must make sure they are aware of which pupils have allergies and ensure this information is shared with all supervising staff.

This helps ensure that everyone involved:

• Understands the risks
• Knows how to respond in an emergency

Key Safety Points for School Clubs

• Always be aware of pupils with allergies attending activities.
• Check food and materials for allergens before use.
• Discourage sharing of food between pupils.
• Ensure emergency medication is always accessible.
• Understand and follow allergy management plans.
• Communicate clearly with all staff involved.

By following these steps, schools can create a safe and inclusive environment where all pupils can take part in clubs and activities with confidence.