Showcase Magazine Autumn 2025 - Flipbook - Page 27
CHILD
DEVELOPMENT
EYFS Updates
EYFS
Updates September 2025
September
2025
From September 2025, all Early Years settings and providers must follow the updated Early
Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework. The EYFS is the statutory framework in England
that sets the standards for learning, development, and care for children from birth to 5 years
old. The primary focus of the update is to strengthen safeguarding practices.
Safer Recruitment
Early years settings will need to have procedures in place to check the suitability of new staff. This includes obtaining
direct and authoritative references, checking employment history and verifying safeguarding concerns. Safeguarding
policies must outline suitability checks and referencing procedures.
Safeguarding Training
A new Annex, Annex C, will outline criteria for safeguarding training covering areas like recognising abuse, safe practices,
and reporting routes. Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) must receive enhanced training (covering local procedures,
online safety, staff allegations, etc.), with training updated at least every two years.
Child Absence
Early years settings must act promptly on unexplained or prolonged child absences. This includes contacting parents,
emergency contacts or escalating to police and social services if necessary. Every child must have at least two
emergency contact numbers. Attendance policies must clearly outline reporting and follow-up procedures.
Paediatric First Aid
Students and apprentices, aged 16 or over, can be included in ratios at the level below their study if they hold a valid and
current Paediatric First Aid (PFA) qualification and are deemed competent. Settings are required to find trusted and
reputable paediatric first aid training providers.
Meal Times and Safer Eating
During meal times, a qualified paediatric first aider must be present, with strict supervision and seating protocols to
prevent choking. Providers must record details of choking incidents, review them regularly, and take appropriate action.
Detailed dietary, allergy, and intolerance information must be recorded and shared, and staff should be trained to identify
symptoms and administer action plans. Settings must have regard to the updated government nutrition guidance,
balancing meals to be healthy, balanced, and developmentally appropriate.
Toileting
Early years settings must respect privacy and have a discreet area for nappy-changing and toileting.
Whistleblowing
Providers must have clear procedures in place for staff to report concerns about safeguarding without fear of reprisal.
Policies must explain how staff can raise concerns internally, as well as through external channels like the NSPCC
helpline, Ofsted, or government guidance.
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