New Paediatric First Aid Requirements Now in Force:

What Early Years Settings Must Know in 2025

Effective from 1 September 2025, major updates to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework are now in place — and one of the most significant changes focuses on Paediatric First Aid (PFA).

These new requirements aim to strengthen child safety, improve safeguarding standards, and ensure that everyone caring for young children is trained and ready to respond in an emergency.

If you run or work in a nursery, preschool, or early years setting, here’s what the new law means for you - and how to stay fully compliant.

What Has Changed in 2025

Under the updated EYFS framework (effective from 1 September 2025), new Paediatric First Aid regulations apply to all early years providers in England.

1. Students, Apprentices and Volunteers Must Be PFA-Trained

Anyone counted in the staff-to-child ratio must now hold a valid Paediatric First Aid certificate. This marks a major change from previous rules, which applied only to qualified Level 2 and Level 3 practitioners.

“This change ensures every adult directly responsible for children’s care can respond swiftly and effectively in an emergency.” – Department for Education (EYFS 2025)

2. A PFA-Trained Staff Member Must Be Present During All Mealtimes

A new statutory requirement states that at least one PFA-qualified staff member must be present in the room during mealtimes. This rule addresses common emergencies such as choking and severe allergic reactions, ensuring immediate help is always available.

3. Recognised Training Providers Only

The EYFS 2025 now requires that PFA training be delivered by a recognised or accredited provider. While course length remains the same (12 hours for the full course and 6 hours for the emergency version), the provider must meet Annex A standards under the EYFS framework to ensure Ofsted-compliant training.

Why These Updates Matter

The EYFS 2025 reforms were introduced to strengthen safeguarding practices and workforce competence across the early years sector.

They aim to:

• Increase the number of adults trained to respond in emergencies.

• Create safer environments in nurseries and preschools.

• Reduce risks during high-risk activities such as mealtimes and outdoor play.

• Improve confidence, competence, and compliance across the workforce.

  
  

These reforms align with the Government’s Safeguarding and Welfare Review, modernising policies on recruitment, supervision, and incident reporting.

What Early Years Providers Should Do Now

If you haven’t yet reviewed your compliance, now’s the time to act.

1. Audit Your Staff Training

Ensure every practitioner, student, and volunteer counted in ratios holds a current PFA certificate.

2. Verify Your Training Provider

Only use recognised providers that meet EYFS 2025 standards.

3. Update Policies and Risk Assessments

Revise safeguarding, health and safety, and mealtime supervision policies to reflect new regulations.

4. Plan for Coverage

Ensure at least one PFA-trained staff member is present during every mealtime and throughout operating hours.

5. Keep Certificates Up to Date

PFA certificates remain valid for three years — schedule refreshers in advance.

How Care2Succeed Can Help

At Care2Succeed, we’re proud to support early years professionals with Paediatric First Aid training that meets the EYFS 2025 requirements.

👉 Book your PFA course today and keep your team compliant, confident, and ready to protect the children in your care.

Book Your Course Now