The School Health Nursing Team
Information for parents and carers of children attending primary school in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire
How we can help
How we can help Healthy children have a better chance of learning. We work with children, young people and their families to:
- Provide health information, both in groups and individually Identify health promotion/health
- improvement initiatives, together with your child’s school
- We also liaise with and can make referrals to other professionals. We will discuss their involvement with you and make a referral, if appropriate, with your consent.
National Child Measurement Programme
The National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) measures the height and weight of children in Reception class (aged 4 to 5) and year 6 (aged 10 to 11). It is coordinated by the School Health Nursing Team. Your school will be in touch with more information, if your child is eligible.
Your child will receive this service unless you decide to opt out.
Healthcare needs in school
Your School Health Nurse works with school staff and other professionals to ensure children’s health needs can be supported when they are in school. This enables all children to access education and achieve their full potential. As your child becomes a young adult they will be encouraged to take responsibility for their own health and lifestyle.
In some areas, you may receive a “School Health Entry Questionnaire” where you can let us know about any health conditions your child may have. Please remember that it is your responsibility to inform your child’s school about any medical conditions, wellbeing concerns your child may have, and any medications that your child may need during the school day.
Privacy and confidentiality
All information received by the School Health Nursing team is treated as confidential, unless there are safeguarding concerns. Any information shared with relevant agencies will always be done in the best interests of your child.
Keeping your personal information safe and secure is important to us. For more detailed information on how we protect your information you can read more on our website: www.cchp.nhs.uk/privacy-policy
We offer free webinars which offer practical advice and information on a variety of topics designed for parents and carers. These are:
- Keeping your child happy and healthy
- Healthy eating and physical activity
- Emotional wellbeing
- Eating disorder awareness
- Sleep
- Dental health
- Starting school
- Moving up to secondary school
You can book onto dates by visiting:
https://bit.ly/SchoolNurseWebinars
Other useful information
Immunisations
Your GP will have arranged for your child to have a booster immunisation at around 4 years of age.
Further information about immunisations will be offered throughout your child’s school life and are subject to change according to Department of Health recommendations. Some of these will be offered in school. For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/vaccinations.
For up-to-date contact details, resources and more, speak to your child’s school or visit the CCHP website: www.cchp.nhs.uk/school-health-nursing
Dentist/opticians
It is advisable that your child attends the family dentist and optician at regular intervals. These services will see your child free of charge.
The School Health Nursing Team
Your School Health Nursing Team is made up of School Health Nurses and School Health Assistants who are experienced in working with children and young people
and providing young people-friendly services. There is a named School Health Nursing Team for all schools with an allocated link School Health Nurse.