CHILDREN and staff at a Tottington nursery are celebrating receiving a national education award.

Mulberry Bush Nursery was crowned winner of an Epilepsy Action education award for its work in supporting pupils with epilepsy.

As part of National Epilepsy Week, which ran from May 17 to 23, the nursery was presented with its ‘Edward’ award by Hattie Hodgson-Crome, media officer at Epilepsy Action.

The Epilepsy Action ‘Edwards’ aim to recognise educational establishments that demonstrate good practice in supporting pupils with epilepsy.

Mulberry Bush Nursery received the accolade because of its work in supporting four-year-old Joseph Beaumont.

Joseph’s epilepsy causes him to have a wide variety of seizures and the nursery has worked with his parents and doctors to draw up a detailed care plan.

Staff have worked hard to learn how to recognise Joseph’s seizures, by reading books and watching videos to teach them what to do if a seizure happens.

The nursery, based in Kirklees Street, was judged to have fully embraced supporting Joseph, allowing him to take part in all aspects of nursery life.

Sarah Beaumont, Joseph’s mum, nominated the school and said: “The staff at Mulberry Bush could not have been more supportive of us and Joseph.

“They have been clear and consistent when dealing with Joseph’s epilepsy, and shown a lot of empathy. I am so pleased that they have been recognised with this award.”

Gemma Duckworth, nursery manager, said: “We are really proud to receive an Edward award. It’s fantastic to have recognition that we are doing the right things for children with epilepsy.

“We love having Joseph as a part of our nursery community and look forward to supporting him in the future.”