DfE guidance states that allergy is classed as a medical condition and schools have a duty to support pupils at their school with medical diets and should make reasonable adjustments so children can participate fully and safely – and remove barriers to participating in school life. 

Schools could consider becoming water-only schools. This is not only a healthy option, but removes an avoidable risk to children with cow’s milk allergies. 

Schools that do provide milk to pupils, should consider providing alternative options for children with food allergies. 

However, currently, there is no legal requirement for schools to provide alternatives other than lactose-free milk for children with lactose intolerance, which is not the same as an allergy to cow’s milk.