The Importance of Paediatric Training on Site: Why Every Early Years Setting Needs It
When it comes to the care of children, safety is paramount. We really want you to understand – What does the new EYFS-mandated paediatric first aid training mean?
As childcare professionals, the responsibility to protect the children in our care is not just a duty but a commitment. One of the most essential ways to ensure the safety and well-being of children in early years settings is by having staff trained in paediatric first aid. Paediatric first aid training, however, is only part of the broader need for thorough and comprehensive paediatric care qualifications in your setting.
Whether in a nursery, school, or any other childcare environment, accidents and medical emergencies can happen at any time. From a simple fall to more complex medical situations, having staff members on-site who are fully qualified in paediatric first aid can make a huge difference in the outcome of a situation.
However, it’s not just about knowing what to do in an emergency; paediatric training encompasses much more, ensuring that childcare professionals are not only equipped to handle accidents but are also well-versed in understanding children’s developmental needs, creating a safe environment, and responding appropriately to medical concerns unique to children.
Why Paediatric Training is Essential in Every Setting
The importance of paediatric training cannot be overstated. It is the foundation for ensuring that children are cared for in an environment that prioritises safety, health, and well-being. Training should cover a wide range of skills, not only focusing on first aid but also on understanding how to care for children with different needs.
One of the key benefits of paediatric training is the ability to deal with a wide range of medical emergencies. Children are naturally curious, and this curiosity can lead to accidents. Whether it’s a child choking, having an allergic reaction, or experiencing a seizure, staff trained in paediatric first aid are prepared to act immediately and appropriately, reducing the risk of serious injury or even death.
Paediatric courses also help staff to understand the emotional and behavioural needs of children, which is especially important in early years settings where children may be dealing with separation anxiety or have neurodivergent traits. These courses ensure that staff are not only trained to manage medical emergencies but also understand the best approaches for nurturing a child’s mental and emotional well-being. Training staff in paediatric first aid means they also become better equipped to respond to any emotional crisis that may occur, which, in turn, creates a calm and supportive environment for children.
In the current landscape of early years education and childcare, paediatric training is also a legal and regulatory requirement. The safety of children is paramount, and legal frameworks such as the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidance require that childcare providers meet specific standards. Having staff qualified in paediatric first aid is one of the key elements that ensures compliance with these regulations. In many cases, it is also a requirement for obtaining insurance, licensing, or other accreditations.
EYFS Guidance: A Requirement for Safety and Compliance
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework outlines the requirements for all childcare providers in the UK. It ensures that early years providers create environments that are safe, nurturing, and supportive of children’s development. Part of this guidance includes the critical requirement that all early years providers have staff members trained in paediatric first aid.
The current EYFS framework specifies that:
-
At least one member of staff with a current paediatric first aid qualification must be on-site at all times when children are being cared for.
-
Paediatric first aid training must be taken by staff members who will be working with children aged 0-5 years, ensuring that they are fully prepared for any potential emergency.
EYFS Statutory Framework, Mandatory Paediatric First Aid from 1st September 2025
Under the upcoming revision of the EYFS Statutory Framework, which takes effect on 1 September 2025, amendments to ensure that early years students and trainees are required to have paediatric first aid (PFA) training for them to be included in ratios at the level below their level of study.
Further reading from 3.36 – All staff who obtained a level 2 and/or level 3 qualification since 30 June 2016 must obtain a PFA qualification within three months of starting work in order to be included in the required staff: child ratios at level 2 or level 3 in an early years setting. To continue to be included in the ratio requirement, the certificate must be renewed every 3 years.
Read More – EYFS Framework
Be ready to have sufficient trained staff from 1st September.
You can read the updates linked here: Early Years Foundation Stage statutory framework for group and school‑based providers
These guidelines aren’t just there for compliance purposes; they are designed to protect children and provide reassurance to parents and caregivers that their children are in capable hands. Staff who are trained in paediatric first aid have the knowledge and skills necessary to assess a child’s condition, make quick decisions, and deliver appropriate interventions. With the right qualifications in place, early years settings are better equipped to ensure children’s safety and respond to any medical issues or emergencies that arise.
The Importance of Paediatric First Aid Qualifications
Since 2016, the regulations surrounding paediatric first aid training have been updated to require staff to hold a Level 3 paediatric first aid qualification. The qualification is more comprehensive than basic first aid training, ensuring that staff are specifically trained to handle emergencies involving children.
Level 3 Paediatric First Aid Qualification is more advanced and designed for those who are in positions of responsibility, such as room leaders, managers, or senior staff members. This qualification expands upon the skills learned in emergency paediatric first aid training and delves deeper into the medical conditions that are more common in children. It covers topics such as asthma management, the recognition of serious medical conditions like meningitis, and more in-depth coverage of how to provide care for babies and children under 12 years of age.
The Level 3 qualification is often required for those working directly with children in more involved or specialist roles, such as nursery nurses, teachers, or childminders. This qualification ensures that staff are not only able to handle first aid emergencies but are also equipped to understand the nuances of paediatric health and medical care.
Holding a Paediatric first aid qualifications is designed to meet the needs of early years providers and ensure that their staff are equipped with the most up-to-date and comprehensive knowledge of paediatric first aid. By having these trained professionals on-site, early years settings can help ensure that they are fully compliant with EYFS requirements while also providing the highest level of care for the children in their care.
Why Paediatric First Aid is About More Than Just Emergencies
While paediatric first aid qualifications certainly prepare staff to act in emergencies, they also offer valuable insights into preventative care. These qualifications cover a range of topics that can help staff create safer environments for children, reducing the likelihood of accidents occurring in the first place.
For example, paediatric first aid courses teach staff how to spot early signs of illness or injury in children, ensuring that they can take preventive measures to avoid complications. Staff also learn how to promote child safety through safe play, the proper handling of equipment, and maintaining a clean and safe environment for children to explore and grow.
Furthermore, paediatric courses teach staff how to assess a child’s developmental milestones and how to adjust their caregiving practices to accommodate specific needs, such as helping children with mobility issues, sensory processing challenges, or neurodivergent children who may experience heightened anxiety in certain situations.
Paediatric first aid training, therefore, goes beyond the basics of emergency response. It equips staff with a wide range of skills to prevent accidents, provide a safe and nurturing environment, and ensure that every child receives the best care possible.
Why Choose a Paediatric First Aid Courses? What does the new EYFS-mandated paediatric first aid training mean?
As a provider of paediatric first aid and health and safety training, we offer courses that meet the highest standards of
education and compliance. Our courses are designed to be practical, hands-on, and relevant to the real-world challenges faced by childcare providers. When you choose a course with HMB Training you’re choosing a comprehensive approach to paediatric care that ensures your staff members are fully prepared to handle emergencies and deliver quality care to the children they look after.
We focus on providing a learning environment that is supportive and engaging, with plenty of opportunities for staff to practice the skills they’ll use in real-life situations. The course materials are up-to-date with the latest regulations and recommendations, so you can be sure that your staff are getting the most current and relevant training.
In addition to meeting legal requirements and EYFS guidelines, Our courses also offer a personalised approach. We understand that every childcare setting is unique, and we tailor the training to meet the specific needs of your staff and the children in your care.
A Commitment to Safety and Excellence
In conclusion, ensuring that your staff are qualified in paediatric first aid is essential not only for meeting legal requirements but also for creating a safe, nurturing environment for children. Paediatric training ensures that your team is prepared for any emergency, has the skills to prevent accidents, and understands how to care for children’s unique needs. It provides peace of mind to both parents and staff, knowing that in the event of an emergency, your team will be able to respond quickly, confidently, and effectively.
Investing in paediatric first aid training is an investment in the future of the children you care for. By providing your staff with the highest level of training, you are helping to create a safer, more supportive environment that fosters the well-being and development of every child.
Paediatric First Aid Training More Accessible to You – What does the new EYFS-mandated paediatric first aid training mean?
Course Options & Pricing:
Option 1: Attend Our Course in Brownhills
📍 Venue: Brownhills Community Centre, WS8 7JA
📅 Date: See our website here for dates
💷 Cost: £75 per person
Maximum 12 learners
Option 2: Host a Course at Your Nursery or School
👥 Minimum of 3-4 participants
💷 Cost: £60 per person
🎁 Bonus: Host the training and get 1 FREE space. If you help fill the course further, we’ll give you an extra free place to use on a future course, even if it’s at another nursery or school.
Maximum 12 learners
How It Works:
- Each Learner will receive a link to register at the time of booking the course. The online blended learning needs to be completed before the in person course commences. This covers all learning outcomes and ensures your team is well-prepared.
- The training day will include practical elements and a short written assessment (FAIB standard).
- Upon completion, you’ll receive your FAIB-accredited certificate, valid for 3 years.
Flexible Booking & Support
We’re building a local network of nurseries and schools for smaller bookings, so even if you only have one or two staff who need training, we can often match them onto another local course. Just get in touch!
Alternatively, we can hold the course at your venue, and we can fill the spaces by offering your venue to other nurseries and schools.
To reserve your space or organise training at your setting, please email us on info@hmbtrainingservices.co.uk or call us
on 01543 453338 or 07506 906641.
We have a Facebook page to keep you updated on the upcoming courses.
Join the EYFS first aid community page here.
Look forward to supporting your team with flexible, practical first aid training. To teach you – what does the new EYFS-mandated paediatric first aid training mean?
