Asthma Friendly Schools Programme

Asthma is the most common long-term medical condition affecting children. It is an inflammatory condition that affects the airways and can make breathing difficult. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed, allowing children and young people to live healthy, active lives.

Asthma can affect a child’s attendance, learning and participation in school activities. For many children, particularly younger pupils, those newly diagnosed or those with additional needs, support from school staff is essential to help them manage their condition during the school day.

Schools have a legal duty to support pupils with medical conditions, including asthma, under the Children and Families Act 2014. This means it is important that staff in schools and early years settings understand asthma and know how to respond if a child experiences symptoms or an asthma attack.

The Asthma Friendly Schools Programme was developed following several asthma-related deaths in schools in England. The programme helps schools create safer environments for pupils with asthma by promoting clear policies, staff training and strong partnership working between the NHS, schools and local authorities.