Health training offer for education providers

Sheffield Children’s health training offer, September 2026 to July 2027

This training program is designed for individuals without medical knowledge or healthcare experience who care for children with various medical needs. Participants will learn to build supportive relationships with children and encourage their engagement in daily activities. The program is particularly beneficial for those needing regular updates on healthcare procedures for children in schools.

Training sessions will be held throughout the academic year in September, November, January, March, May, and July. This schedule allows schools to arrange for staff to attend on different dates, ensuring uninterrupted services. Staff can also select specific courses as needed.

This coordinated effort aims to enhance training programs while ensuring efficient and equitable use of time across schools. By providing a structured approach, educational staff can attend sessions on various days, maintaining consistent services and minimising disruptions in education and care delivery. Staff may also enrol in individual courses if necessary.

The Health Needs in Education Team is responsible for managing the training plan to ensure equal access for all interested staff members. Schools and educational services must register for this training opportunity.

Please be aware that this free training is only available on scheduled days. While we recognise these times may not be ideal, they are the only free options provided by Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust for the specified courses. Additional health courses not included in these training days may be accessed by staff based on their needs through the nurse specialist. For any questions, please contact our team.

If the scheduled times do not meet your needs and you prefer a customised option, the school can arrange training through private providers. However, it is your responsibility to ensure the training is accredited and meets your needs, and to cover any associated costs. We advise confirming the accreditation of any private training to comply with your school’s insurance requirements.

Adrenal Insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency (AI) occurs when the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient cortisol, which can result from primary adrenal disease or from insufficient adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) caused by medications. In children, symptoms may include slow growth, fatigue, feeding difficulties, stomach aches, vomiting, and prolonged illnesses.

AI is treated by administering hydrocortisone to replace cortisol. During physical stress, such as illness, injury, or surgery, additional glucocorticoids are necessary to prevent a life-threatening adrenal crisis.

This course provides a thorough understanding of emergency care for children with adrenal insufficiency, including annual training updates to boost staff confidence and competence.

Topics covered will include:

• Definition of adrenal insufficiency and Addison’s disease
• Signs, symptoms, daily care, and treatment options
• Recognition and management of adrenal crises
• Emergency prevention and preparation
• Development of an escalation plan
• Storage and preparation of emergency medication, particularly intramuscular hydrocortisone.

Book now via Teams

Date, Time and Location

Wednesday 4 November 2026
1.30 to 2.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams

Thursday 25 March 2027
1.30 to 2.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams

Tuesday 20 July 2026
10.30 to 11.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Allergy, Anaphylaxis and AAI

In the UK, about 50% of children have some form of allergic condition, with 6 to 8% having a confirmed food allergy. This increases their risk of anaphylactic shock, underscoring the importance of taking all allergies seriously, especially in schools. To address this growing concern, education and childcare providers must undergo practical training in allergy management and anaphylaxis. This training equips caregivers with the skills needed to support children with allergies and comply with relevant laws.

The Anaphylaxis and Allergy Training includes:

• Awareness and understanding of various allergic reactions
• Knowledge of allergy action plans
• Recognising the severity of allergies and appropriate treatments
• Proper use of an Adrenaline Auto-Injector (AAI)
• Guidance on caring for students with allergies in school settings

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 2 September 2026
3 to 4 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 3 November 2026
3.30 to 4.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 5 January 2027
3.30 to 4.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Chronic Fatigue Awareness

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating condition characterised by persistent, unexplained fatigue lasting at least 6 months that does not improve with rest. This severe fatigue impacts daily activities and is often accompanied by symptoms such as muscle pain, headaches, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties (often referred to as “brain fog”), malaise, dizziness, and nausea. CFS affects about 1% of teenagers and is a leading cause of long-term school absence.

Children and adolescents with ME/CFS experience limited energy and may enter a “Boom and Bust” cycle, where exceeding their energy limits leads to flu-like symptoms and exhaustion. They also face higher rates of anxiety and low mood, significantly affecting their academic performance and social interactions. Effective management involves understanding daily energy limits (baseline) to prevent symptom exacerbation.

Schools and educators play a crucial role in providing tailored support to these students. Key course topics include:

• Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Prevalence
• Common symptoms
• How schools can provide assistance
• Services offered by Sheffield Children’s

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 4 November 2026
10.30 to 11.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 24 March 2027
12 to 1 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 20 July 2027
1.30 to 2.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Health and Communication Passport

A Communication and Health Passport is a user-friendly document designed to help individuals, particularly those with learning disabilities and autism, communicate their healthcare needs to professionals such as doctors and nurses. It can also help other services understand these needs.

The passport should be regularly updated to reflect changes in an individual’s health and interactions with care services. It can be completed by the individual or their caregivers.

This course provides an overview of the key elements local services, including educational providers, which should be considered regarding Health Communication Passports. It covers:

• The definition of a Health Communication Passport
• The intended audience
• The development process, including essential information about support needs, healthcare requirements, communication preferences, and strategies for easier hospital visits
• The vital role of parents and caregivers in maintaining and updating the document

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 6 January 2027
11 am to 12 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 27 May 2027
12 to 1 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Diabetes – Type 1 Update

This Diabetes Training Update Course is designed for individuals who have previously completed the initial face-to-face training and need their annual update or seek additional support. It is aimed at staff caring for children with diabetes, including school staff, parents, guardians, youth workers, and childminders.

The course provides an update on the essential skills for effectively monitoring and managing diabetes in school settings. In the UK, approximately 35,000 children and young people under the age of 19 are diagnosed with diabetes—96% with type 1 diabetes, 2% with type 2, and 2% with rare forms of the condition. With the number of diagnoses having doubled since 1996, the need for awareness and support is critical.

This update equips teachers and caregivers with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage diabetes, ensuring that children with this condition receive the support they need in their school environment.

• What is diabetes
• Management in school
• Equipment CGM, pump and pen therapy
• Snack and lunchtime
• Hypoglycaemia
• Hyperglycaemia
• Sports and exercise
• Residentials
• Workshops:
  • hands-on pumps and pens
  • Blood testing equipment
  • glucagon or ogluodemonstration

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 2 September 2026
10.30 am to 12 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 3 November 2026
10.30 am to 12 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Epilepsy and Emergency Buccal Medication Awareness

In the UK, around 64,000 children have epilepsy, which is roughly 1 in every 220 children. This indicates there is typically one child with epilepsy in each primary school and about five in secondary schools, highlighting the need for adequate support.

This training equips school staff with essential knowledge and skills to assist children with epilepsy. It covers various types of seizures, their symptoms, and critical actions to take during a seizure.

The course also addresses responsibilities, policies, and procedures for supporting children with epilepsy.

• Describe what epilepsy is
• The different types of seizures
• The signs and symptoms of seizures
• Common triggers
• How to administer first aid for a seizure
• Basic information on treatments, including VNS and a ketogenic diet
• Administration of buccal midazolam rescue medication and protocols (please note this does not cover any rectal medication delivery- training for this can be obtained separately from the Epilepsy nurse specialists.)
• How Epilepsy Affects Education and Well-being

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 2 September 2026
9 to 10.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 3 November 2026
9 to 10.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 5 January 2027
9 to 10.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 25 March 2027
3 to 4.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 27 May 2027
3 to 4.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 20 July 2027
9 to 10.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Hydrocephalus

Living with hydrocephalus can be challenging due to a lack of understanding about the condition. Hydrocephalus involves the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, leading to increased pressure inside the skull. It’s crucial for schools to recognise this condition and learn how to support affected students, including those who may require a shunt system.

This training will cover the signs of shunt malfunction, which can be life-threatening.

Course topics include:

• Understanding hydrocephalus
• The function of a shunt
• Key considerations for schools
• Necessary adaptations for students
• Sharing resources and information

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 3 November 2026
2 to 3 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 25 March 2027
1.30 to 2.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 20 July 2027
2.30 to 3.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Individual Healthcare Planning

The primary goal of an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHP) for a child with medical needs is to clearly outline the required support. This plan details the assistance needed from school staff, parents or guardians, and the child.

Staff training is essential for creating, maintaining, and coordinating these plans. It ensures compliance with regulations, guides the safeguarding of children in education, and provides timely information. The program also includes annual updates to maintain staff confidence and competency.

The course covers:

• Understanding the Law and Duties around IHP’s
• Recognising the necessity and significance of a care plan when a child enters school
• Roles and Responsibilities of Care Planning
• Associated Risk Assessments
• Reasonable Adjustments
• Building confidence in creating care plans through a multi-disciplinary approach

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 2 September 2026
12 to 1.15 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 5 January 2027
12 to 1.15 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 26 May 2027
11 am to 12.15 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Monday 19 July 2027
11 am to 12.15 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Medicine Management

Schools and early years settings must have policies for administering medication to children and young people. This course offers essential guidance on implementing and managing these policies, detailing the responsibilities of both staff and parents.

In line with the Department for Education’s statutory guidance, “Supporting Pupils with Medical Conditions,” all education personnel must receive training in medication management. This course ensures staff gain the knowledge and skills to confidently administer medications in school and during trips.

Key topics include caring for children with medical needs, understanding legal responsibilities, and safely handling, storing, and disposing of medications.

The course also emphasises the importance of annual update training for staff to maintain their confidence and competence.

• The Law and School Policy
• Understanding the need for medications
• Types of medications
• Risks and adverse effects
• Administration and escalation of concerns
• Roles and responsibilities in safe practice
• Safe Storage
• Documentation and training competency

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 2 September 2026
1.30 to 2.45 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 3 November 2026
1 to 2.15 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 5 January 2027
1.30 to 2.45 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 24 March 2027
1.30 to 2.45 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 26 May 2027
1 to 2.15 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Monday 19 July 2027
1.30 to 2.45 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Oxygen

Children and young people who require oxygen therapy often receive training from their healthcare team. However, their admission to educational settings may be delayed or denied due to concerns about anxiety and safety related to oxygen therapy.

Supplemental oxygen therapy treats low oxygen levels in the bloodstream (hypoxemia) by providing a higher concentration of oxygen than normal air (21%). As a medicinal product, it requires adherence to medication management protocols and health and safety regulations. It’s important for staff to be well-informed about the child’s condition and prepared to respond to any changes.

When children bring oxygen supplies from home, they may encounter issues such as administration errors, failure to alert the Fire Rescue Service (FRS) about oxygen, inadequate training for non-clinical staff, lack of a formal risk assessment, and uncertainty about safe storage.

This course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of caring for a child requiring oxygen therapy and includes recommended annual staff training to ensure confidence and competency.

The aims are:

• Guidance about safe administration of oxygen
• Guidance on Risk Assessments
• Ensuring safety when using and storing oxygen

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 3 November 2026
11 am to 12 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 24 March 2027
10.30 to 11.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Tuesday 20 July 2027
12 to 1 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Paediatric Palliative Care, Advanced Care Plans and ReSPECT

Educational settings play a crucial role in developing a comprehensive palliative care approach that enhances the quality of life for children and supports their families. This approach includes managing distressing symptoms, providing short breaks, delivering end-of-life care, and offering bereavement support.

Advance care planning is vital for individuals nearing the end of their lives, involving the creation of Advance Care Plans (ACPs) that outline patients’ preferences for medical interventions. The ReSPECT (Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment) process facilitates effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients about their conditions and treatment values.

Specialised support is necessary for planning for children and young adults. Effective end-of-life care requires collaboration among health authorities and local organisations, including schools, faith groups, funeral directors, care homes, hospices, and other service providers.

The course will cover:

• An introduction to palliative care
• An overview of the ReSPECT process
• Information on Advance Care Plans (ACPs)
• Implications for schools
• Roles and responsibilities in the process
• Sheffield Children’s Palliative Care Services

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 4 November 2026
9 to 10 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 27 May 2027
9 to 10 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Good Sleep and Sleep Disorder Awareness

Quality sleep is crucial for children’s growth and development. Getting a good night’s sleep can help them perform better at school, respond more quickly to situations, retain information more effectively, and solve problems. It also reduces their susceptibility to colds and other minor illnesses, making them less irritable and better behaved.

Young people are particularly at risk of experiencing sleep issues. There are various reasons why people may struggle to sleep. Some, like changes in their brain that make them want to sleep later, cannot be helped, while others, such as their use of social media and homework schedule, can be managed.

The course covers:

• Importance of sleep
• Why we sleep
• Importance for education
• What is narcolepsy?
• Signs and symptoms with tools and signposting

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 4 November 2026
12 to 1.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 27 May 2027
9 to 10 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Personal care, Continence and toileting

Most children start school toilet-trained and can manage personal care independently. However, some may need assistance due to developmental delays, medical conditions, behavioural issues, or disabilities, even if they are continent.

Personal care involves washing and helping with agreed-upon procedures in sensitive areas, which may be necessary based on a child’s age or special needs. It’s important to recognise that all children have the right to an education, regardless of their toileting challenges.

Tasks should be approached with professionalism, dignity, and respect, ensuring high health and safety standards for everyone involved. A consistent approach should be maintained to uphold the rights and responsibilities of all parties.

The course covers:

• Definitions and Principles of Intimate and Personal Care
• Promoting Bladder and Bowel Health
• Managing Incontinence
• Safeguarding Measures
• Dignity and Respect
• Infection Control Practices
• Care Planning and Documentation
• Legislation and Local Policies
• Best Practice Guidelines

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 4 November 2026
2 to 3.30 pm
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Wednesday 6 January 2027
9.30 to 11 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 25 March 2027
10 to 11.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Book now via Teams
Thursday 27 May 2027
10 to 11.30 am
Microsoft Teams Webinar

Suction (Oral and Nasal)

Suctioning is a safe procedure used to remove fluids such as saliva, mucus, or vomit from a person’s airway. It must be prescribed and assessed by a healthcare professional based on the child’s specific needs, who will also develop a care plan. Only certified individuals should perform suctioning to ensure safety.

This course covers the following types of suctioning:

• Oral: A rigid plastic “Yankauer” catheter is used in the mouth, making sure it does not extend beyond the back of the teeth
• Nasal: A soft, flexible catheter is gently inserted into the nasal cavity
• Nasopharyngeal: A soft, flexible catheter is directed through the nostril toward the pharynx
• Oropharyngeal: A soft, flexible catheter is positioned along the roof of the mouth and down the throat

This course will cover:

• Reasons and timing for suctioning
• Anatomy and suctioning sites
• Risks associated with suctioning
• Infection control procedures
• Documentation and care plan
• Practice suctioning techniques on a mannequin using suction machines

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Thursday 3 September 2026
9 to 11.30 am
Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, 100 Napier Street, Sheffield, S11 8HD

Tracheostomy

A tracheostomy is an artificial opening in the windpipe (trachea) created by a tracheostomy tube, facilitating easier breathing for children. Air passes directly through the tube, bypassing the nose and mouth, which means it isn’t warmed, moistened, or filtered. Due to potential difficulties in clearing secretions, proper care is vital to prevent blockages. Tubes should be replaced weekly or monthly, and securing tapes should be changed daily or when soiled.

Effective tracheostomy care helps prevent infections, promotes healing, and keeps the airway safe. A qualified caregiver must perform suctioning, change tapes, and manage emergencies. It’s important to have multiple trained staff members available for consistent care and support.

This course will cover the following topics:

• Reasons for needing tracheostomies
• Caring for a child or young person with a tracheostomy
• Preparation of equipment
• Tracheostomy suction
• Changing a tracheostomy tube
• Basic life support to a child with a tracheostomy
• Documentation, care plans, and risk assessment
• The course will also include a manikin assessment

Date, Time and Location

Book now via Teams
Thursday 3 September 2026
12 to 3.30 pm
Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, 100 Napier Street, Sheffield, S11 8HD

Become an Asthma-Friendly School

Asthma is the most common long-term condition among children in the UK, affecting about 1 in 11 young people.

The South Yorkshire Asthma Friendly Schools Initiative aims to enhance asthma care by raising awareness and providing training for school staff, students, parents, and caregivers.

• Improved awareness and management of asthma
• Enhanced support for pupils with asthma
• Increased focus on health and wellbeing
• Adoption of best practices in asthma management

Contact: scn-tr.respiratorynurses@nhs.net
Asthma Friendly Schools resource

Future training

The program offers free health training for educational providers in Sheffield, aimed at improving accessibility and effectiveness for all education staff.

For any questions, please contact: scn-tr.healthinschoolnurses@nhs.net