Allergies and anaphylaxis for school staff
Learn how to support pupils with allergies as part of your new statutory duty (known as Benedict's Law) from September 2026.
Who it's for
All school staff
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
- Identify the common allergens and protect pupils from them
- Recognise the symptoms of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Respond quickly to allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Know when to report serious incidents and 'near misses' involving allergies
The DfE's statutory guidance on allergy safety in schools requires all school staff who are present on the school site at the same time as pupils to receive regular allergy awareness training. This includes:
- Teaching staff
- Support staff
- Catering staff
- Others who may supervise pupils at breakfast or after-school club
Please note: this course is not intended for allergy safety leads who are required to implement and review their school's allergy safety policy.
Course updates
We've updated this course to include videos on how to administer ADs.
We've updated this course so it's fully in line with DfE's statutory guidance on allergy safety in schools and Benedict's Law.
Additional resources
Training to meet your statutory requirements
Adrenaline devices (ADs) in school: guidance
Find advice on keeping spare adrenaline devices in school, including how to buy, store and dispose of adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs).