The paediatric first aid online theory module supports early years and childcare providers across the United Kingdom in developing the knowledge and understanding required to respond appropriately to medical emergencies involving babies and young children.

The course reflects widely recognised paediatric first aid knowledge and emergency response practices relevant to early years settings across the UK.

While the course content includes references to Ofsted and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework used in England, the learning outcomes and first aid guidance are applicable to early years practice across England, Scotland and Wales. The regulatory references included in the course are intended to support English providers, while the underlying emergency response knowledge remains relevant to all UK childcare settings.

England

Early years provision in England is regulated by Ofsted under the EYFS. The framework requires providers to ensure staff responsible for children hold a valid paediatric first aid qualification, commonly delivered as a 12-hour course covering infant and child emergency care. This module supports the theoretical knowledge component of paediatric first aid training.

Scotland

Early learning and childcare services are regulated by the Care Inspectorate. Scottish regulation is outcome-based and does not prescribe a specific course length or syllabus for paediatric first aid training. Providers must ensure staff have appropriate skills, knowledge and competence to safeguard children’s health and well being.

Wales

Childcare services in Wales are regulated by Care Inspectorate Wales. The National Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare require that a suitably trained paediatric first aider is available when children are present, although a specific course duration is not prescribed.