The New Approval Body for Paediatric First Aid Training

Why do we need the Paediatric First Aid Association?

For the last few years, training organisations have been able to accredit their paediatric first aid courses with joint approval from the National Childminding Association (NCMA) and the Pre-School Learning Alliance (PLA).

In July 2006, that approval system was withdrawn, which left many first aid training organisations with no credible approval system for paediatric first aid training and the effective de-regulation of the Paediatric first aid training industry. This has opened the door to any training provider, regardless of quality standards, to deliver first aid training to Childminders and Nursery Workers.

Who are the Paediatric First Aid Association?

The PFAA is a non-profit association established to address the current ‘lack of regulation’ in the Paediatric First Aid Training Industry. The PFAA intends to set and maintain a consistently high standard of first aid training to the childcare industry. It aims to ensure that member training providers have an independent identity with the credibility, support and monitoring of a professional trade body.

Who's idea was the PFAA?

Following the NCMA’s decision to end their approval process, discussions took place between Peter Pocock, Ian Irwin, Chris Young, Paul Stedman and Nigel Barraclough. The need for a replacement approval system was quickly recognised. Peter and Ian represent the Association of Independent First Aid at Work Training Organisations (AIFAWTO), who represent around 130 FAW approved first aid training organisations. Chris Young is an Emergency Medical Technician and Chief Exec of Medic First Aid, who have around 250 training centres throughout the UK. Paul Stedman is an Ex-Paramedic, Trainer and owner of Cognet Training & Consultancy. Nigel Barraclough is a Paramedic, Trainer and Author of many first aid books (including a paediatric first aid book).