AN Addingham nursery has received national recognition for the way it keeps children safe.

Nursery Rhymes has been awarded Millie’s Mark by the National Day Nurseries Association in collaboration with Department for Education and Millie’s Trust. The award is given to nurseries who go above and beyond the minimum requirements in paediatric first aid. With its robust processes and documentation, Nursery Rhymes staff strive to keep children safe by minimising risks and accidents and giving parents that greater reassurance.

Millie’s Mark is named after Millie Thompson, who tragically 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.

Paralympic cyclist and triple gold medallist David Stone MBE visited the nursery in Addingham to unveil the official plaque and make a speech about the nursery’s achievement at a fun day celebration. Staff, parents and children enjoyed a range of fundraising activities including raffles and bake sales and raised an impressive £115.45 which will be donated to Millie’s Trust.

Deputy manager of the nursery, Leoni Sowerbutts 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.”

Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) added: “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."