What First Aid Does the EYFS Require?

First Aid Cover on the Premises, on Outings and at Mealtimes

The September 2026 EYFS framework sets these rules for nurseries, schools and other group settings:

• Whenever children are present: at least one person with a current full PFA certificate must be on the premises and available.
• Outings: a person with current full PFA must accompany the children.
• When children are eating: a member of staff with a valid full PFA certificate should always be in the room.

The framework also asks providers to consider children, staff numbers and the layout so a Paediatric First Aider can respond quickly. Plan cover for absences, not only the ordinary rota.

Which Staff Need a PFA Qualification?

Under paragraph 3.39, staff who obtained relevant Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications since 30 June 2016 must obtain PFA within three months of starting work to count in the relevant staff ratios. Staff completing the experience-based route need PFA before counting at Level 3.

The framework includes specific qualifications and exceptions, including a disability exception to this staff-ratio requirement. This concerns how staff count in ratios; practical First Aid qualifications still have their own assessment requirements.

Check which rules apply to each role. Staff-ratio requirements and the requirement to have someone with full PFA available are separate parts of planning your cover.

What About Childminders?

The separate childminder framework requires a PFA certificate for registration and continuing registration, with current full PFA cover available when children are present and on outings. It also addresses meals, assistants and responding quickly.

Use the childminder guide for practical planning, and the relevant framework for your registration arrangements. PFA training is renewed every three years.

Our Full Paediatric Course

Our full PFA course combines six hours online with six hours in person. You learn baby and child CPR, how to help someone who is choking, and how to use an EpiPen. Practical exercises use CPR manikins, defibrillators, choking jackets, EpiPen trainers and more. The full course also covers a wider range of injuries and illnesses.

Private training is customised to your setting and team while retaining the qualification’s content and assessment. Places on public courses suit individual staff. An optional Ofqual-regulated certificate is available on the full course for a small additional cost.