A NURSERY in Badminton has received an award for the quality of its first aid provision.

Pumpkins Nursery in Badminton has been recognised for its first aid practices and the safety of children in its care with a Millie’s Mark Award.

They are currently the only nursery in South Gloucestershire to have received this award.

Millie’s Mark is a quality mark, given to nurseries where all staff are trained in paediatric first aid and is awarded by the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) in association with the Department for Education and Millie’s Trust.

Amanda Wallis, owner of the nursery, said: “Set in a rural community, it is essential that all of our staff have the skills and confidence to administer life saving treatment should the need arise. The health and safety of our children has always been paramount in our practice but Millie’s Mark has enabled us to raise the level of care even further.”

To celebrate their achievement Pumpkins held an 'in the pink' week, where children and staff dressed in pink and took part in a range of activities. These included a dolls’ hospital; a visit from paramedics; practising bandaging and emergency first aid role play; mending Humpty Dumpty; making Millie’s biscuits; pink crafts and artwork, plus a special newsletter dedicated to Millie’s Mark, which shared lots of practical advice with parents.

Millie’s Trust has campaigned for all staff to have paediatric first aid training, as opposed to the Ofsted requirement of one first aider present at all times). Having the award demonstrates that a nursery has met this criteria.

In addition, the award shows that the nursery works hard to keep these crucial skills in the forefront of employees’ minds, so they are competent and can apply paediatric first aid in any situation.

Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) said: “Achieving Millie’s Mark is a great achievement for the nursery, it shows that all staff are fully trained in paediatric first aid and that they have reflected on their current practice to improve competence and confidence.

"Becoming a Millie’s Mark’s nursery is a clear indicator for parents that this nursery has met the highest standards and gives them the reassurance that their children are safe."

For more information about Pumpkins Nursery visit our website: www.pumpkinsnursery.co.uk