How We Have Put the New EYFS Changes into Practice

✅ How We Have Put the New EYFS Changes into Practice (September Update)

As many of you may know, the Department for Education introduced updates to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework in September. Here's how we, as a nursery, have taken practical steps to ensure we are meeting these new requirements:

🔐 Safeguarding and Recruitment

1. Verified References:
We ensure that two authoritative references are obtained for all new staff as part of our recruitment process. These are followed up with phone calls to verify authenticity.

2. Child Absence Tracking:
Our attendance policy is clearly outlined in the welcome pack and parent agreement. Parents are required to inform the nursery if their child will be absent. We monitor attendance daily and follow up on any unexplained or prolonged absences promptly.

3. Emergency Contacts:
We require a minimum of two emergency contact numbers for each child upon registration to ensure we can always reach someone in case of an emergency.

4. Safeguarding Training:
All staff undergo safeguarding training in line with the new Annex C requirements. Training is renewed every two years to stay up to date with best practices.

5. Whistleblowing:
We have a robust whistleblowing policy in place. All staff are made aware of this during their induction and are encouraged to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

🍎 Health, Food, and Welfare

6. Safer Eating Practices:
We are proud to have fully trained in-house chefs at all our nursery sites. They are trained in allergen management.

  • Children with allergies have personalised Allergy Action Plans.

  • We use daily allergen checklists and separate placemats for children with allergies.

  • We take all dietary needs seriously and follow updated guidance to prevent choking.

7. Paediatric First Aid (PFA):
All staff hold up-to-date Paediatric First Aid certificates as standard. This includes students and trainees, ensuring they can be counted in staff-to-child ratios.

8. Intimate Care:
We have reviewed and updated our intimate care procedures to ensure children's privacy and dignity are respected at all times. We have also introduced privacy screens during nappy changing and toileting routines.

By making these updates, we are committed to delivering the highest standards of care and education in line with the latest EYFS requirements.

Jessica Baxter