Asthma is one of the most common long-term health conditions affecting children and young people, with around 1 in 11 children in the UK living with asthma and needing treatment, which means an average of about three children in every classroom may have the condition. Poorly controlled asthma can affect a child’s wellbeing and education — a child with asthma that isn’t well managed is about three times more likely to miss school than a child whose asthma is under control. Each year, asthma also contributes to hospital admissions and missed school days, highlighting the importance of good support and management at school so that pupils can take part fully in all activities.

Asthma is a condition that affects the lungs and can make it harder to breathe at times. It happens when the airways become swollen and narrow, which can cause coughing, wheezing, a tight chest or shortness of breath. Many children with asthma use inhalers to help keep their airways open and to relieve symptoms quickly if they feel unwell. Asthma can be triggered by things like colds, exercise, cold air, dust, pollen or strong smells, but with the right support and treatment, most children with asthma can play, learn and take part in school life just like everyone else.

Anson Primary School is proud to be recognised as an Asthma Friendly School, reflecting our strong commitment to the health, safety and wellbeing of every child. This means we have clear policies and procedures in place to support pupils with asthma, staff are trained to recognise symptoms and respond quickly in an emergency, and children are encouraged to manage their asthma confidently and safely. We work closely with families and health professionals to ensure each child’s needs are understood and met, so that all pupils can take part fully in school life with reassurance, support and care.

Our Asthma Policy can be found here.

Asthma Help and Advice:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/

https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/