EYFS Safeguarding Reform: Implications for September 2025

Practitioners and leaders or owners of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) institutions should be aware of upcoming changes to legislation to improve safeguarding in this setting. These safeguarding reforms have been proposed as part of the government's review of child protection measures in early years settings.

If adopted, these changes are expected to come into force in September 2025, introducing strengthened safeguarding requirements across recruitment, training, workplace protections, and child welfare.

Safer recruitment and employment law implications

One of the key reforms focuses on safer recruitment practices to ensure that only suitably vetted individuals work with young children. Employers in early years settings must obtain references before employment begins, integrating thorough background checks into their hiring process.

Additionally, safeguarding policies must outline clear procedures for vetting new recruits, reinforcing accountability in recruitment decisions.

Education law and safeguarding training enhancements

The framework introduces a safeguarding training criteria annexe, which specifies expectations for delivering effective training. Practitioners must be supported in applying their safeguarding knowledge, with policies ensuring continuous professional development.

Furthermore, a notable update mandates that students and trainees must complete paediatric first aid (PFA) training before being included in staff-to-child ratios, strengthening emergency preparedness across early years settings.

Whistleblowing and workplace protections

Recognising the importance of transparent reporting, the new framework strengthens whistleblowing protections. Early years providers must implement clear whistleblowing policies, encouraging staff to report safeguarding concerns without fear of retaliation. Legal protections have also been reinforced to ensure that whistleblowers are safeguarded from workplace discrimination or dismissal for raising concerns.

Privacy and child welfare considerations

New requirements regarding privacy during nappy changing and toileting seek to balance child protection with dignity. Providers must establish clear protocols to ensure privacy is respected, whilst maintaining safeguarding oversight. Policies should reflect best practices in child welfare, ensuring children feel safe and secure during personal care routines.

Safer eating practices and prolonged absence monitoring

To further enhance child safety, structured mealtime supervision policies will be required to prevent choking incidents. Staff must receive training on age-appropriate food preparation, ensuring meals are correctly cut and served for young children. Additionally, children will be encouraged to adopt safe eating habits, such as sitting upright and avoiding distractions during mealtimes.

The safeguarding reforms also emphasise the importance of monitoring prolonged absences. Early years providers must maintain additional emergency contact details for every child, with clear procedures in place for following up on unexplained absences. Strengthening communication with parents and guardians is a priority, ensuring a child’s well-being is consistently accounted for.

Implications for early years providers

If implemented, these reforms should come into force on 1 September 2025. Early years providers are encouraged to prepare by reviewing their policies and procedures in alignment with the proposed changes. Staying informed on future announcements will be critical in ensuring compliance with any final legislative updates.

It is essential for practitioners to familiarise themselves with the updated framework and integrate these changes into their policies and procedures. If you require any advice or support in relation to these reforms and the actions you need to take, please get in touch with our Education experts or you can learn more about the education services we provide by clicking here.

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