Emergency Paediatric First Aid is a valuable one-day course - but it is not always enough on its own for EYFS “full PFA on site” rules.
EPFA (typically around 6 hours) builds emergency skills for babies and children. Many settings use it for additional staff while ensuring at least one full PFA holder remains available at all times.
What is Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA)?
A shorter paediatric emergency syllabus focusing on life-threatening situations and immediate care for infants and children.
Typical duration: Usually 1 day (around 6 hours minimum)
Certificate life: Typically 3 years; check whether your setting still requires full PFA cover
Who usually needs this training?
- Extra early years staff building emergency skills
- Settings layering cover around a full PFA holder
- Activity providers needing a shorter paediatric emergency course
Your options when arranging EPFA training
Booking patterns:
- One-day closed course for a staff cohort
- Open EPFA places for new joiners
- Pathway planning from EPFA toward full PFA
What to look for in a EPFA trainer or training company
- Clear explanation of EPFA vs full PFA for compliance
- Infant and child CPR practice
- Flexible dates around term-time staffing
For the person who must be present whenever children are on site, prioritise full PFA that meets EYFS Annex A.
Authoritative guidance
Check primary sources before you buy - FlexMed helps you hire trainers, but course requirements come from regulators, statutory frameworks and professional bodies:
How FlexMed helps you find the right trainer
FlexMed is a UK marketplace that connects organisations with freelance trainers and training companies. Instead of cold-calling providers or waiting on generic quote forms, you can post what you need once and compare responses from people who already deliver EPFA.
- Create a free organisation account - register as a client organisation if you need training delivered for your staff, or as a training company if you need freelance trainer cover for a course you already run.
- Post a clear request or job - include the course type (Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA)), date(s), postcode area, headcount, venue type, and whether you need equipment supplied.
- Review profiles and credentials - check bios, verification documents, equipment flags, and ratings before you award.
- Compare quotes and message - ask about awarding organisation, assessment method, blended learning options, and what is included in the price.
Trainers and providers looking for work can also browse open jobs on FlexMed.
Practical tips before you book
- Complete a first-aid / training needs assessment so you book the right level - not just the cheapest day course. The HSE first aid needs assessment guidance is the usual starting point for workplaces.
- Confirm whether you need regulated qualifications, in-date certificates, or specific awarding bodies for your sector.
- Share access details, parking, and any learner needs early so the session runs smoothly.
- Ask who issues the certificates and how quickly learners receive them after assessment.
Need EPFA for your team? Publish the request on FlexMed and compare paediatric-experienced trainers.