EYFS 2025: What’s Changing and How Tigerlily Training Can Help
From the 1st of September 2025, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework will introduce important updates to bolster child safety and wellbeing. Below is an overview of the key changes - and practical ways Tigerlily Training can support early years and school-based providers through this transition.
- Stronger Safeguarding & Safeguarding Training (Annex C)
Safeguarding remains paramount. Providers must now strengthen recruitment procedures - securing references, detailing them in policies, and replacing the term “lead practitioner” with Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). A new Annex C outlines mandatory training for all staff, with renewal required every two years. DSLs also require enhanced training, especially around online safety and handling allegations.
Our 3-hour Advanced Safeguarding Infants & Children L2 course is suitable for anyone who works with infants and children and has individual or team safeguarding responsibilities. This advanced course will help you to build on your existing knowledge and remind you how to identify abuse and report concerns.
- Attendance & Emergency Contact Protocols
Providers must update their attendance policies to address unexplained or prolonged absences, with follow-up protocols clearly communicated. Settings are also required to collect at least two emergency contacts per child to safeguard against late pickups or emergencies.
- Safer Eating & Nutrition (Paediatric First Aid Included)
There’s a new, dedicated Safer Eating section within EYFS to address choking risks, allergies, appropriate weaning practices, and supervision. Key points include:
- A staff member with a valid Paediatric First Aid (PFA) certificate must be present during mealtimes.
- Children must be within sight and hearing of staff, ideally with adults facing them.
- Obtain and record detailed dietary preferences, allergies, and developmental food stages for each child.
- Prepare food suitably to reduce choking risk.
- Log and review any choking incidents systematically.
- Providers must have regard to the updated DfE nutrition guidance - unless there’s a valid reason not to - covering healthy, balanced, and nutritious meals.
Our Food Hygiene & Feeding Safely for EYFS course covers meal prep, allergy awareness, and safer feeding - perfect for these new requirements. We also deliver a FREE webinar on Safer Feeding & Choking First Aid Training (in partnership with The Oliver Steeper Foundation), offering practical guidance in line with the framework.
- Paediatric First Aid for Trainees and Apprentices
Trainees, students, or apprentices aged 16+ now must hold a valid PFA certificate before being included in staff-to-child ratios.
Our Full Paediatric First Aid Course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to emergencies involving infants and young children. This comprehensive course meets the requirements of the EYFS statutory framework, ensuring you are fully prepared to handle various situations with confidence.
- Toileting, Nappy‑Changing & Privacy
Providers must balance children’s privacy and dignity with necessary supervision during intimate care routines. In some settings, this may require privacy screens or adjusted practices to maintain both safety and respect.
- Clear Whistleblowing Procedures
New provisions demand explicit whistleblowing policies so staff can safely raise concerns - internally or externally (e.g., via NSPCC, Ofsted) without fear of reprisal.
The EYFS updates coming into force on 1st of September 2025 reflect a commitment to elevated standards of safety, nutrition, and safeguarding. The full framework can be found on the GOV website here.
At Tigerlily Training, we’re here to support you with relevant, practical learning opportunities that align with your compliance needs and commitment to children’s wellbeing.
…Stay tuned for details of our upcoming webinar on the EYFS changes - coming soon on the 17th of September. Keep an eye out for how you can join!
If you would like to find out more about our courses or book your place on any of the courses mentioned in this article, explore our website or get in touch with our friendly team today. Let’s ensure the safety of our little ones – together!