Thu 31 Jul 2025
If you’re managing a nursery or early years setting, staying up to date with Paediatric First Aid (PFA) rules under the EYFS 2025 framework is crucial, not just for compliance, but to keep your team and the children safe. Here’s what you need to know.
According to the EYFS 2025:
At least one person with a valid PFA certificate must always be on site, present during meals, and accompany children on outings.
Staff with Level 2 or 3 qualifications awarded after 30 June 2016 must hold a PFA certificate within three months of starting, to be counted in staff:child ratios.
Unqualified but experienced staff can be included in ratios without a PFA certificate.
Staff with qualifications awarded before 30 June 2016 are not required to have PFA for ratio purposes, though it is good practice.
Volunteers and students can only be included in ratios with a valid PFA and must always be supervised.
You must ensure a certified person is:
On the premises at all times when children are present
In the room while children are eating
Accompanying children on all outings
Think practically: if you have multiple rooms or outdoor areas, you may need more than one PFA-trained staff member to ensure quick emergency response.
The EYFS accepts two types of PFA, as long as they meet the criteria in Annex A of the framework:
Emergency PFA:
6 hours, face-to-face only
Covers key emergency response (CPR, choking, shock, seizures, etc.)
Suitable for meeting staff:child ratio requirements
Full PFA:
All PFA training:
Must be face-to-face (not online-only)
Must be renewed every 3 years
Must include an assessment of competence
Must be specific to babies and young children
Make sure you:
Display certificates or maintain a clear list of current PFA holders
Schedule renewals early to stay compliant
Double-check that PFA coverage aligns with your room layout and daily routines