§ Mrs. BrookeTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what guidance he issues to(a) primary care trusts and (b) local education authorities on the employment of school nurses. [170372]
§ Mr. MilibandThe Department for Education and Skills has not issued specific guidance to primary care trusts or local education authorities on the employment of school nurses, as school nurses come within the remit of the Secretary of State for Health. We do, however, recognise that school nurses play an important role in offering health and nursing advice and support to schools, such as in advising and training staff on managing pupils' medical conditions. This is acknowledged in the joint DfES and Department of Health good practice guide 'Supporting pupils with medical needs'.