Mon 14 Jul 2025
The new EYFS statutory framework comes into force on 1 September 2025 and while much of it feels familiar, there are some key updates and a few important reminders for nursery managers. To save you time (and stress), we’ve pulled together this checklist-style guide so you know what to focus on.
Whether you’re preparing for Ofsted or just want peace of mind that everything’s covered, here’s what to keep an eye on:
DSL in place: You must have a Designated Safeguarding Lead trained in line with Annex C.
Whistleblowing procedure: All staff (including students/volunteers) must know how and when to raise concerns.
Child absences followed up: You need a clear attendance policy, and must follow up unexplained or prolonged absences.
Updated policies: Ensure your safeguarding, health, and safer eating policies reflect 2025 guidance (including food allergy plans and choking procedures).
Staff suitability checks: Enhanced DBS, references (no open ones!), and overseas checks where needed.
Curriculum aligned: Your curriculum should reflect the seven areas of learning and the educational programmes.
Characteristics of effective teaching are embedded: Playing & exploring, active learning, creating & thinking critically.
Progress check at age two: A short written summary for parents, especially flagging any potential delays or SEND concerns.
Support for EAL children: Check you’re offering support in home language (where appropriate) and assessing English development fairly.
Paediatric First Aid: At least one person on site (and on outings) must have up-to-date full PFA training (Annex A).
Choking risks minimised: Staff must sit with children during mealtimes. Allergy plans, food prep, and weaning conversations should be up to date.
Medication procedures in place: Written permissions, safe storage, and first-aid logs are a must.
Safe sleep practices: Follow NHS SIDS guidance, especially for under 2s.
Parent info updated: Emergency contacts (ideally more than two), dietary needs, and SEND support plans.
Complaints policy: Must include a 28-day turnaround for outcomes.
Changes reported to Ofsted/CMA: New managers, address changes, significant events — within 14 days.
Daily registers: Attendance and key person info kept and available.
Level 2/3 checks: Half of your staff should be Level 2+, and those working with under 2s must have specific training.
Maths qualification for managers: If appointed after Jan 2024, a Level 2 maths qualification is required (or must be achieved within 2 years).
Apprentices in ratio: Only if 16+, suitable, and have a valid PFA certificate.
Correct ratios by age group: Under 2s (1:3), 2-year-olds (1:5), 3+ varies depending on staff qualifications and school status.
Regular staff supervision: Space for 1:1s, support with concerns, and professional development discussions.
Training logs maintained: Induction, safeguarding, food hygiene, PFA, and any refresher training should be logged and monitored.
The EYFS framework isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about helping children thrive and giving your team the structure to do their best work. This new 2025 version is full of helpful clarifications and nudges to improve practice, so keep this checklist close and share it with your leadership team.
As part of our commitment to supporting nurseries, we have a free, bitesize, up to date Safeguarding Children course that includes all the recent changes (including Annex C) that all staff must be aware of. Please view the course here: https://www.hellomums.co.uk/courses/10
If you wish to enroll yourself or anyone from your team for free in this course, please email us at info@hellomums.co.uk.
Download EYFS Framework 2025 checklist here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ge-SZSBxS_SBqvq6a038Kw1x9PwFPM1JHhVNOJFHDYM/edit?usp=sharing