Mum’s praise earnsschool epilepsy gong

The school was crowned winner of an Epilepsy Action education award for its work in supporting children with epilepsy and was presented with its ‘Edward’ as part of National Epilepsy Week.

The school was chosen because of its work supporting one of its children who has epilepsy, four year-old Andrew McMorris.

Andrew was diagnosed with epilepsy when he was two years and eight months.

His parents were very concerned as he was preparing to go to nursery soon after. They were unsure of whether he would cope with attending nursery.

Joanne McMorris, Andrew’s mum, nominated the nursery for the award. She said: “We are so pleased the nursery has been recognised with an Edward.

“Everyone at the nursery deserves heartfelt praise from us for their ongoing hard work, dedication and support. The nursery staff have gone over and above to accommodate Andrew’s needs through extensive and ongoing training.

“They have made Andrew’s nursery days happy and memorable ones for our family.”

Carol Bratton, school principal at Lisnagelvin Nursery School said: “We are delighted to have won an Epilepsy Action Edward award.

“It’s fantastic to be recognised for the work we do to ensure that children with epilepsy are able to enjoy all aspects of nursery life regardless of their condition. We’re very grateful to the McMorris family for nominating us.”

The family initially approached Lisnagelvin Nursery School. They met with the principal at the nursery before Andrew started and a plan was put in place.

Staff at the nursery have received extensive and ongoing epilepsy training. He has an individual healthcare plan and the nursery has a medical policy. Andrew takes part in all activities and aspects of nursery life.

The Epilepsy Action ‘Edwards’ were launched in 2010. They aim to recognise educational establishments that demonstrate good practice in supporting pupils and students with epilepsy.

Epilepsy affects an estimated 63,400 children and young people aged under 18 in the UK.

One in every 220 children will have a diagnosis of epilepsy. On average, there will be one child with epilepsy in every primary school and five in every secondary school.

Epilepsy Action works with the education sector so that the correct provision and support can be put in place for children and young people with epilepsy. Epilepsy Action aims to ensure that all individuals with epilepsy are able to reach their full potential.

For more information about Epilepsy Action and the Edward awards, visit www.epilepsy.org.uk.