EYFS Safeguarding Reforms

The Department for Education (DfE) has concluded its consultation on strengthening safeguarding requirements within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework. Following substantial support from the sector, all proposed changes will be implemented nationally from 1 September 2025.

Key Updates Include:

• Enhanced safer recruitment practices, including a new requirement for providers to obtain employment references before hiring staff.

• Clearer whistleblowing procedures to support staff in escalating safeguarding concerns confidently.

• Improved guidance on managing child absences, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.

• Strengthened safeguarding training requirements to ensure all staff are adequately prepared.

• Updated protocols for paediatric first aid training, safer eating practices, toileting, and maintaining children's privacy.

These reforms aim to align EYFS safeguarding practices more closely with current best practices, enhancing the safety and well-being of children in early years settings.

Resources and Support:

To assist providers in adapting to these changes, the DfE is developing a free online safeguarding training package for early years and reception-class educators. This resource will be available ahead of the implementation date. Stay informed and prepare your setting for these upcoming changes.

Access the full government response and detailed information on the reforms here:

🔗 EYFS Safeguarding Consultation Response

For further details and to access supporting documents, visit the consultation page:

🔗 Early Years Foundation Stage Government Consultation

In this podcast, the Safeguarding Conversations podcast take a look at the new Early Years safeguarding reforms & discuss the challenges for practice.