Reminder: Keeping Our School Allergy-Safe

At St Stephen's, one of our greatest strengths is the way we look out for one another; we want everyone to feel safe, included, and protected.

To help us maintain this environment, we are writing to share a reminder regarding our Food In School Policy. We have a member of our school community with a severe, life-threatening allergy to bell peppers and their derivatives. We are sharing this information to help everyone feel confident in choosing snacks and lunches that keep all of our children safe.

Ingredients to look for - these are prohibited at school:

When checking labels, please look out for these specific ingredients:

• Bell Peppers (any colour)

• Paprika (often used for colour or seasoning in savory snacks)

• Chili and Chili Powder

• Cayenne Pepper

Hidden ingredients in common snacks

It’s easy to miss these ingredients as they often appear in foods we wouldn't expect. Some examples include:

• Barbeque Flavored Snacks: (e.g., 'Real Corn' Barbeque flavour)

• Savory Crackers/Crisps: Many cheese or pizza flavored crackers and crisps use paprika for colour.

• Marinades and Dips: Often contain paprika or chili.

• Seasoned Meats: Some deli meats or sausages contain pepper-based spices.

For some, a severe allergy means that even secondary contact can be dangerous. This happens when a tiny amount of an allergen is transferred from a hand to a shared surface - like a desk, a door handle, or playground equipment.

This contact can trigger anaphylactic shock, a very serious and rapid medical reaction that affects a person’s ability to breathe. By taking a quick moment to check an ingredients list, you are playing a vital role in preventing a medical emergency and ensuring our school remains safe for everyone.

We are so grateful for the care you show when packing your child’s lunch and snacks. This collective effort is what makes our school such a supportive and safe place for all our families.

Thank you for your continued cooperation.

You can view our Food In School Policy on our school website here.

STARS Update:

• PAYMENTS – Please ensure all outstanding balances for all payment items are now settled. Places for next term will be secure for children with cleared balances.

• SPRING 2 SESSIONS - Sessions for STARS Spring 2 will be loaded early February, payments will be due by Sunday 22nd February

• SPACES – We have availability in STARS on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays after school, and Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in Breakfast Club 

• VOUCHERS – If  you are paying using childcare vouchers or tax-free childcare, you must include your child's name and the STARS session as a reference on the transfer/email. Please email the finance mailbox with the transfer details so we can mark your payment as complete

Final Call: We Need Your Voice on School Meals! 

Before the Christmas break, we shared our School Meals Survey to help us improve our lunchtime offerings. While we appreciate those who have shared their thoughts, we need a much larger proportion of our school community to share their views to make any meaningful changes.

Whether your child loves their school meals or there is something you think we could do better, we want to know. Please take 5 minutes to complete the survey by 31st January. 

https://forms.gle/YmPiamtCLX2HaX2i8 

Thank you