Claire’s heroes earn top award
ASCHOOL that supports a pupil who suffers from regular epilepsy seizures has been given a national award for its work.
Puss Bank School and Nursery was presented with the primary school award by Epilepsy Action, in their celebration of the country’s ‘epilepsy heroes’.
The school supports Claire Mullen, nine, who has epilepsy which isn’t controlled by medication and has regular seizures and lots of side effects from the many medicines she takes.
Claire has attended the Barracks Lane school since she was four and staff have worked tirelessly to make sure that her needs are met and that she can take part in every activity.
Headteacher Kathy Nichol accepted the award from Mark Morton, Epilepsy Action’s digital media manager, saying: “We are so pleased to have been recognised with this award. As a school, we aim to provide a safe, happy and exciting and engaging environment for everyone. It has been a delight to support Claire and her family.”
Claire has a one-to-one support worker who stays with her throughout the school day and beyond this, the school help her whole family, always checking in with her parents about how they are.
The school was nominated for the award by Jo Shuker, Claire’s epilepsy specialist nurse, who was present at the presentation.
Jo said: “Many schools would struggle to manage Claire’s needs day in and day out but for the Puss Bank staff it has been the norm. They provide Claire with a daily routine. It is clear to see how poorly Claire is but the school never her make her feel different. They do all that they can to support her and the family.”
Staff at the school have worked closely with Jo, receiving epilepsy training, including training about how to use Claire’s emergency medicine. Also, they have a thorough plan about how to manage Claire’s epilepsy and seizures.
Claire is actually leaving the school soon to attend a special school which will be more suited to her needs. But she has only been able to stay at Puss Bank for so long because of the school’s outstanding support.
Philip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action said: “We’re delighted to acknowledge the wonderful work of Puss Bank School and Nursery by giving them an Epilepsy Action award. This award is a deserved tribute for their efforts and successes.
“These awards reflect the wonderful efforts of the recipients and mark our appreciation for their passion and commitment to the support of people with epilepsy.”