First Aid Training For Nurseries: Everything You Need To Know.

When it comes to childcare, ensuring children’s safety is a top priority, which is why first aid training for nurseries is essential.

Accidents can happen anytime, and having trained nursery staff who can respond effectively can make a significant difference to a child’s health and well-being.

Training for nursery staff is not just a recommendation; it’s a legal requirement in the UK.

This blog explains the first aid training requirements and rules that UK nurseries must follow to ensure compliance and child safety and all you need to know if you’re running a childcare business.

Legal Requirements for First Aid Training in UK Nurseries:

Nurseries in the UK must comply with:

• The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
• Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981.

These regulations ensure that every nursery has a well-trained team that can respond to emergencies appropriately.

Paediatric First Aid (PFA) Certification:

Who Needs Paediatric First Aid Certification?

The EYFS framework mandates that at least one member of nursery staff with a full Paediatric First Aid (PFA) certification must be present on the premises at all times when children are present.

Our training will provide an FAIB (First Aid Industry Body) accredited certificate that is valid for three years, nationally recognised by, and compliant with the Department of Education /Ofsted’s guidelines.

How Long is PFA Certification Valid For:

Paediatric First Aid certification is valid for three years, after which staff must complete a refresher course.

Emergency First Aid vs. Paediatric First Aid:

Our emergency paediatric first aid training is a one-day course. It covers the first procedures in an emergency in line with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines for First Aid at Work. This course is focused on treating adults, including staff and visitors to the nursery. Attendees will earn a nationally recognised FAIB certificate, valid for 3 years.

Combined Paediatric First Aid & Emergency First Aid at Work Course

You can save time & money by streamlining training and consolidating both courses into one convenient session. This comprehensive course meets Ofsted requirements for Paediatric First Aid and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) standards for Emergency First Aid at Work. Extensive hands-on practice covers CPR, choking, anaphylaxis, wound management, burns, and scenario-based exercises for real-world nursery application.

Learn More: www.safeandsound.uk.net/combined-paediatric-and-efaw

The Role of Ofsted in First Aid Compliance

Ofsted’s Inspection and Regulations

Ofsted ensures that nurseries comply with first aid training requirements during their inspections. A lack of compliance can affect the nursery’s rating.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply may result in penalties, warnings, or even closure of the nursery in extreme cases.

First Aid Equipment and Facilities in Nurseries:

Essential First-Aid Kit Contents For Early Years’ Settings

A nursery’s first-aid kit must include:

• Sterile dressings
• Bandages
• Disposable gloves
• Cold packs
• Scissors and tweezers

Common First Aid Emergencies in Nurseries

Some of the most common first-aid incidents in nurseries include:

• Choking – Especially from small objects or food.
• Allergic Reactions – Due to common allergens like nuts.
• Falls and Head Injuries – A major concern in active play areas.

We understand that children will always have accidents, and knowing how to respond when they occur by keeping a calm head and administering first aid is essential.

First Aid Training Costs and Locations

Training costs at our Open courses start from as little as £80 + VAT per person for Emergency Paediatric First Aid.

Please get in touch for a free quote for group bookings, which can accommodate up to 12 people and are available at locations across the UK. Prices start from as little as £50 + VAT per person.

Call us today on 020 8445 8998 or email office@safeandsound.uk.net

TLDR:

First aid training in UK nurseries is a crucial legal requirement designed to protect children.

Ensuring that all nursery staff are adequately trained in paediatric first aid not only meets regulations but also provides peace of mind to parents and guardians.

Compliance with these regulations can save lives, making it an essential investment for any nursery.

• Nursery staff must renew their Paediatric First Aid certification every three years.
• Not all staff need to be trained, but at least one fully certified Paediatric First Aider must be on-site at all times.
• Non-compliance can result in Ofsted penalties, lower ratings, or even nursery closure in severe cases.
• Practical training must be done in person, but we do offer a Blended Paediatric First Aid Course, which combines 1 day of flexible e-learning and 1 day of practical learning within a classroom setting.
• The Blended Learning Option will result in a nationally-recognised FIAB certificate, valid for three years.

We hope this information has been useful, and welcome any questions you may have.

If you’re unsure about any element of first aid training within an early years setting, you are welcome to contact the Safe and Sound Training team who will assist with everything, including booking you and your team in for our courses.