ALDERLEY Edge School for Girls is celebrating a major achievement after receiving a first aid accolade.

The nursery at the school has received national recognition for going above and beyond the minimum requirements in paediatric first aid.

The school is the only school in the local area which has achieved this award.

Alderley Edge School for Girls Nursery has been awarded Millie’s Mark by National Day Nurseries Association in collaboration with Department for Education and Millie’s Trust.

Millie’s Mark is named after Millie Thompson, who died as a result of choking in a nursery in 2012.

Her parents Dan and Joanne Thompson have campaigned for all staff to have paediatric first aid training, and having Millie’s Mark demonstrates that nurseries have met this.

In addition it shows they work 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.

Bridget Howard, Junior School headmistress said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been awarded Millie’s Mark.

“This is a special achievement and shows how serious we are about ensuring children are safe when they are in our care.

“I would like to thank everyone who has supported us during this process, and we are all very much looking forward to celebrating our success.

“With its robust processes and documentation, the nursery staff strive to keep children safe by minimising risks and accidents and giving parents that greater reassurance.

“We are the first independent school in the area to achieve this award.”

Staff, children and parents will mark their achievement and unveil the official certificate at a celebration on Friday, September 22.

Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of the National Day Nurseries Association 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.”