BG region’s first to achieve Prem Aware Award

Bilton Grange Preparatory School has become the first independent school in the West Midlands to achieve the Prem Aware Award.

The Prem Aware Award is given by the charity The Smallest Things to settings which complete training to gain a better understanding of the learning needs some children born prematurely may have. It helps staff to identify needs earlier and to provide timely and targeted support.

The Smallest Things Prem Aware Award scheme promotes use of the ‘Preterm Birth Information for Educational Professionals’, a free online training resource developed by Prof Samantha Johnson and her colleagues in the Premature Infants’ Skills in Mathematics Study Team.

Research has shown that pupils born extremely prematurely (before 28 weeks’ gestation) are most likely to need extra support, but also highlights that children born just a few weeks early may still face difficulties at school.

Founder and Chair of The Smallest Things, Catriona Ogilvy, congratulated the Bilton Grange and Little Grange teams on their Prem Aware Award.

“We are delighted they have joined our growing list of Prem Aware settings across the UK, and in doing so, they have shown their commitment to meeting the needs some pupils born prematurely may have. With an average of two to three children in every classroom being born prematurely, we know teachers can play a crucial role in supporting and improving the long term outcomes for them.”

Gareth Jones said he was delighted the School and its nursery, Little Grange, has achieved Prem Aware status.

“With the help of The Smallest Things charity, this recognition reflects our commitment to ensure children who are born prematurely are understood and supported, in close partnership with their families. We look forward to continued work with the charity on this important area of child development,” he added

Katie Gedye added: “This valuable training has given key staff a deeper understanding of how premature birth can affect a child’s development, their learning and also emotional wellbeing. Inviting families to share their child’s birth history enables us to build a fuller picture from the outset so we can provide the right support from day one.

“Early identification and genuine partnership with families is essential to giving every child the very best start on their educational journey.”