Health & Safety Training Requirements for Schools
Schools and nurseries have specific health and safety training obligations under multiple pieces of legislation. This guide covers the key requirements for educational settings in the UK.
1. First Aid Training for Schools
Under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 and DfE guidance 'First Aid in Schools':
- Schools must have a first aid needs assessment covering pupils and staff
- At least one First Aid at Work (FAW) trained first aider is recommended
- Paediatric First Aid is required for staff working with Early Years (EYFS)
- First aid provision must be available during school hours, after-school clubs and school trips
2. Paediatric First Aid Requirements (EYFS Framework)
Under the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS):
- At least one person with a Paediatric First Aid certificate must be on the premises at all times
- At least one person with Paediatric First Aid must accompany children on outings
- Paediatric First Aid certificates must be renewed every 3 years
- Childminders must hold a Paediatric First Aid certificate
- Newly qualified staff with Level 2/3 Early Years qualifications must hold Paediatric First Aid within 3 months of starting work
3. Fire Safety Training for Schools
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005:
- Schools must have a designated responsible person for fire safety
- Fire Marshals must be appointed and trained
- Fire evacuation drills must be conducted at least once per term
- Fire risk assessments must be reviewed regularly
- Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) required for staff/pupils needing assistance
4. COSHH Training for Schools
Schools use hazardous substances in science laboratories, art rooms, cleaning and maintenance:
- Science departments: chemicals, reagents, biological agents
- Art departments: solvents, adhesives, ceramic dusts
- Cleaning staff: cleaning chemicals, disinfectants
- Maintenance staff: paints, solvents, adhesives
COSHH training and risk assessments are required under the COSHH Regulations 2002.
5. Manual Handling in Schools
Under the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992:
- Staff who lift equipment, furniture or supplies need manual handling training
- Special educational needs (SEN) staff who assist with pupil mobility require people moving and handling training
- Caretakers and site staff who move heavy equipment need specific training
6. Food Safety in Schools
Schools providing meals or food technology classes need:
- Level 2 Food Safety training for kitchen staff under the Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013
- Food technology teachers need food safety awareness training
- HACCP principles implemented in school kitchens
- Allergen management under Natasha's Law for PPDS foods
Book Training for Your School or Nursery
Livius Training provides all the above courses specifically for schools and nurseries across Yorkshire. We offer on-site training during INSET days and school holidays. Contact us or call 01423 396780 to discuss your training needs.
