24 Aug First Aid Training is now mandatory for all newly qualified staff working in childcare
(Article from The telegraph, 12 March 2015) In the wake of the death of Millie Thompson who choked to death in a nursery in 2012, the government has passed a new law that all newly qualified staff with a childcare Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, must have an emergency first aid, or paediatric first aid certificate.
Nurseries with 100% of their staff first aid trained, will be able to display a new kitemark scheme, dubbed Millie’s Mark, from next year so that parents are aware. The certificate will help to give parents assurance that their child is being cared for by knowledgeable first aid trained staff.
Ofsted have said that first aid will form part of their inspections of nurseries.
Sam Gyimah, the childcare minister said,”As a parent myself, I know that every single mum and dad wants the confidence that those tasked with caring for their child have the right training should the absolute worst happen.Today’s proposals will mean that thousands more staff will be able to respond to emergencies more quickly, making sure parents really can access the very best possible childcare choices for their families.Not only will this help ensure children are safe while they learn, grow and develop but it will also raise the quality and skills of the Early Years workforce to help them deal with day to day first aid issues such allergies and knowing when to call parents.”
The findings have come from a review of nursery first aid after the death of nine month old Millie Thompson at a nursery in October 2012.
Millie choked on shepherd’s pie during her mashed lunchtime feed from a supervisor at Ramillies Hall private school in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester.The supervisor’s first aid certificate had expired and a colleague who did have training could not save Millie.
Millie’s parents Joanne and Dan Thompson said: “We are both extremely pleased that the government have listened to our awareness campaign and changes are being made that could ultimately save a child’s life.
Do you or your staff need First Aid Training? QA Associates have 2 First Aid courses with qualifications, taking place in the next month:
- Saturday 12th September Level 2 Emergency First Aid at Work Online Booking Form
- Saturday 26th September and Saturday 3rd October (2 day course) Level 3 Paediatric First Aid Book Online Here
QA Associates also deliver training in your place of work, based on a minimum of 6 staff. If you would like more information please get in touch by,
Email: cherylstapleton@qa-associates.co.uk
Call: 01773 300296