From September 2025, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework will introduce key changes designed to strengthen safeguarding requirements in early years settings. These updates aim to improve child safety while ensuring a supportive and secure environment for both children and staff.

Key Changes to Safeguarding Requirements:

1. Safer Recruitment Practices: New amendments will require providers to obtain references for all new staff and ensure that safeguarding policies include procedures to verify that only suitable individuals are recruited.

2. Monitoring Absences and Emergency Contacts: Providers will now need to follow up if a child is absent for an extended period and ensure that updated emergency contact details are collected for every child.

3. Safer Eating Practices: New guidelines will ensure that eating environments are safe, preventing choking hazards and ensuring that food is appropriate for children.

4. Safeguarding Training: A new safeguarding training annex will require providers to outline how training is delivered and how practitioners are supported to implement it in practice.

5. Paediatric First Aid for Students: Early years students and trainees will be required to hold paediatric first aid (PFA) training if they are included in staff-to-child ratios below their study level.

6. Whistleblowing Support: The new amendments will clarify procedures for whistleblowing, encouraging staff to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

7. Children’s Privacy in Toileting and Nappy Changing: Changes will balance children’s privacy with safeguarding practices during toileting and nappy changing.

8. Other Clarifications: Minor adjustments to the wording and structure of safeguarding requirements will be made for clarity.

Building a Culture of Safeguarding:

Building a culture of safeguarding means embedding safety and child welfare into all aspects of nursery life. It goes beyond policies, creating an environment where everyone from staff to parents understands that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Key elements of this culture include:

1. Ongoing Training: The Staff should receive regular safeguarding training to stay informed and confident in handling concerns.

2. Clear Reporting Systems: There must be accessible and transparent channels for staff to report any safeguarding issues.

3. Positive Role Models: Staff should model safe, respectful behaviour, fostering trust and security for children.

4. Engagement with Parents: Safeguarding is most effective when families are engaged and informed about policies and procedures.

5. Child-Centred Practices: Safeguarding policies should prioritise children’s safety, listening to their voices and ensuring their environment is secure and supportive.

By adopting these types of practices, early years settings can create a strong, proactive safeguarding culture that ensures children’s well-being is always a top priority.