All early years providers must ensure that staff hold appropriate qualifications for their role. This includes ensuring that practitioners who are required to hold paediatric first aid certification have a valid and current qualification in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements.

Guidance and resources

Check early years qualifications

Use the Department for Education's Check an early years qualification service to confirm whether a qualification meets the requirements for inclusion in EYFS staff-to-child ratios.

Qualification requirements for ratios

The Department for Education provides guidance on qualifications that are recognised for use within EYFS staff-to-child ratios in England.

EYFS Framework requirements

Providers should regularly review the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework to ensure that:

• Mandatory training requirements are met
• Training is renewed within required timescales
• Staff in designated roles access appropriate professional development
• Qualification and welfare requirements remain compliant

Qualifications gained outside the UK

Guidance is available to help employers determine whether overseas qualifications meet EYFS requirements for working in early years settings.

Recruitment and workforce management

Further support is available to assist providers with the recruitment, deployment and management of early years staff.

Early Years Educator Level 3 Apprenticeship

The Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprenticeship is a fully funded, work-based programme that enables practitioners working with children aged 0–5 to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for effective early years practice. The programme supports staff to learn while working and contribute directly to the quality of provision within their setting.

The apprenticeship helps practitioners develop confidence and skills in:

• Delivering high-quality early education and care
• Organisational management and staff development
• Working in partnership with parents and carers
• Supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
• Implementing and sustaining improvements in practice

The programme has been designed with input from early years professionals and is structured to fit around the demands of working in a busy setting.

Further information is available from:

• Childcare - Early Years Educator - HLNSC
• Apprenticeships and Training Provider - Paragon Skills

Additional support

Further information on qualification funding and workforce development support is available through:

• Additional funding for qualifications and the Early Years Education Recovery Programme