Minibugs Nurseries in St Austell today announced that it has received national recognition for going above and beyond the minimum requirements in paediatric first aid. 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.

Minibugs Nursery in St Austell has been awarded Millie’s Mark by National Day Nurseries Association in collaboration with Department for Education and Millie’s Trust. This is the first nursery in the St Austell to obtain this important new quality mark.

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.

Samantha McCarthy, Nursery Manager comments: “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. St Austell now joins our other Minibugs nursery in Liskeard in achieving this award. We are the only nursery provider in these local areas to obtain this award.  Minibugs Nurseries are committed in ensuring all of our settings provide this standard and we are delighted that all our nurseries have achieved the Millie’s Mark Award.”

Purnima Tanuku, Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) adds: “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’.