There are 2 statutory EYFS frameworks:
- EYFS statutory framework for childminders
- EYFS statutory framework for group and school-based providers
Providers are responsible for ensuring they follow the current version of the framework for their provider type.
The EYFS framework:
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory Framework, issued by the UK Department for Education and effective from 1 September 2025, sets the mandatory standards for:
- Learning and development
- Assessment
- Safeguarding and welfare
for children from birth to age five in early years settings across England.
The main first aid content is located in:
Section 3 – Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements
Paediatric First Aid
Pages 29–30, paragraphs 3.36 to 3.39.
There is also:
Annex A – Criteria for Effective Paediatric First Aid (PFA) Training
Beginning on page 46.
Summary of the Paediatric First Aid Section
EYFS Paediatric First Aid Requirements (2025)
Under the EYFS statutory framework, all early years providers in England must ensure that paediatric first aid (PFA) provision is in place to safeguard children at all times.
Core Legal Requirements
The framework states that:
At least one person with a current Paediatric First Aid certificate must:
- Be on the premises at all times when children are present
- Be available to respond immediately
- Accompany children on outings.
Training Standards
PFA certificates must:
- Be obtained through a full paediatric first aid course
- Meet the standards set out in Annex A
- Be specifically relevant to babies and young children
- Be renewed every three years.
Staffing and Ratios
The EYFS requires that:
- Staff with Level 2 or Level 3 childcare qualifications gained since 30 June 2016 must complete PFA training within three months of starting work if they are to be counted in statutory staff-to-child ratios.
- Staff using the experience-based route to qualification must also hold a valid PFA certificate before being included in ratios.
Operational Expectations for Settings
Providers should:
- Assess staffing levels, child numbers, and building layout to ensure first aiders can respond rapidly in emergencies.
- Display staff PFA certificates or provide parents with a list of qualified first aiders.
Implications for First Aid Instructors
First aid instructors delivering EYFS-compliant courses should ensure training:
- Covers emergency treatment for infants and young children
- Meets the statutory criteria in Annex A
- Supports early years practitioners in maintaining compliance with Ofsted and safeguarding requirements
- Includes practical emergency response capability for nursery and school settings
Training providers should also be aware that the EYFS framework expects providers to choose a competent training organisation, potentially including:
- Awarding organisations
- Voluntary aid societies
- Trade body approved providers.
