Enhancing Nursery Safety: The Importance of Paediatric Refresher First Aid Training

One incident which occurred in recent years has brought this to the forefront. If any good can come of his tragic story, we can at the very least let it be to ensure nothing like this happens again.

Let’s explore the absolute worst way we can all learn the importance of keeping first aid skills sharp, and what we can do to be better at providing the highest quality care and protection from harm.

The incident in question

In September 2021, 9-month-old Oliver Steeper tragically lost his life after choking on food at Jelly Beans Nursery in Ashford, Kent. Oliver’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves throughout childcare industry, bringing to light significant concerns regarding the critical need for regular first aid training and refresher courses in nurseries across the country.

The report from coroner, Katina Hepburn, revealed that, astonishingly, staff in early years settings are only required to renew their Paediatric First Aid (PFA) training every 3 years, with no mandatory refresher courses in between. Additionally, the current framework only mandates that one PFA-certified staff member needs to be present on site at any given time.

A need for real and immediate change

Ms. Hepburn's Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) report to the Department for Education (DfE) expressed serious concerns about these minimal requirements. She underscored the high risks posed if the sole trained staff member is unavailable, or unable to provide the necessary aid during an urgent situation. This scenario leaves other staff members, who may have either outdated, or no PFA training whatsoever, to handle critical incidents - potentially leading to dire consequences.

Oliver’s death is a prime example that the current standards need an overhaul. They are only a guideline of the minimum requirements. Businesses and care providers can do more and be better.

Paediatric First Aid Refresher Training: FRFA can help you

First Response First Aid (FRFA) recognises the urgent need to go beyond these minimal efforts to ensure the highest safety standards in nurseries. We offer comprehensive first aid training and regular refresher courses designed to keep your teams up-to-date. Our expert-led, first aid tutors cover essential topics, including; the stages of baby weaning, unresponsiveness, and choking hazards – all of which were areas of concern highlighted in the coroner’s report of Oliver’s case.

By investing in regular, rigorous, first aid training, nursery staff can be better prepared to respond effectively in emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children in their care.

FRFA is dedicated to making childcare settings safer and advocates for stronger first aid training regulations.

Join us at FRFA in enhancing nursery safety. Contact us today to learn more about our first aid training and refresher courses. Let’s work together to create a safer environment for our youngest, and most vulnerable children.