Safeguarding in Early Years

This module introduces the course, its learning outcomes and how to work through the training at your own pace. It also explains the available accessibility tools and how to pause and resume your progress.

This module summarises the September 2026 amendments to the EYFS statutory framework and what they mean for early years settings. It covers safer sleep, enhanced DBS checks for volunteers, Ofsted or childminder-agency notifications, children’s screen use and keeping children safe on outings.

This module explains safeguarding and child protection, including significant harm and factors that can increase a child’s vulnerability. It outlines the responsibilities of the Safeguarding Lead and the legislation and guidance relevant across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

This module uses Finkelhor’s Four Factor Model to explore how early years settings can reduce safeguarding risks through appropriate conduct, effective policies and suitable risk assessments. It also covers positions of trust, safer eating and sleeping, child-centred practice and staff wellbeing.

This module covers contextual safeguarding, the four categories of abuse and neglect and indicators of physical abuse. It also introduces child exploitation, fabricated or induced illness, FGM, honour-based abuse and faith abuse.

This module looks at the ways children may disclose abuse and the barriers that can prevent them from speaking out. It explains how to listen, respond appropriately and avoid actions that could compromise the safeguarding process.

This module explains when, how and to whom safeguarding concerns should be reported and accurately recorded. It covers levels of need, early help, statutory intervention, low-level concerns and multi-agency arrangements, including MASH where applicable.

This module introduces online safeguarding and the digital risks that may affect young children at home or in an early years setting. It considers how practitioners can recognise concerns and help create safer online experiences.

This module explains the Prevent duty and the responsibilities of early years practitioners in relation to radicalisation and extremism. It covers relevant agencies, safeguarding procedures and signs that a child may be at risk.

This module uses case studies to help you apply safeguarding knowledge to realistic situations. It reinforces how to identify poor practice, recognise possible abuse and decide what action to take.

The final assessment contains 12 questions selected from the course question bank. You need a score of at least 80% to pass, and you can retake the assessment if required.

This module provides practical resources to keep after the course, including a body map template. It also signposts inspection handbooks and safeguarding information for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The course ends with a short evaluation questionnaire. Your feedback helps improve the training and future learner experience.