When choosing the right first aid training, it’s easy to feel unsure about whether you need Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) or Paediatric First Aid. Both courses teach essential life‑saving skills, but they are designed for very different environments. At Flowers Training, we deliver accredited first aid courses across Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, so we’re often asked which course is the right fit. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you make the best choice for your workplace or childcare setting.
What Is Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)?
Emergency First Aid at Work is the standard one‑day first aid course required in many workplaces. It is ideal for low‑risk environments such as offices, shops, small businesses, community organisations and anyone who needs to meet HSE first aid requirements.
What the EFAW course covers:
- Managing an unresponsive adult
- CPR and use of an AED
- Seizures
- Choking in adults
- Bleeding and shock
- Minor injuries
This course focuses on adult first aid, workplace risks and the immediate actions needed to keep someone safe until emergency services arrive. If your business employs staff or welcomes members of the public, EFAW is often the minimum legal requirement.
What Is Paediatric First Aid?
Paediatric First Aid is designed specifically for those who work with babies and children. This includes nursery staff, childminders, teachers, early years practitioners, after‑school clubs, sports coaches and parents. It meets Ofsted and EYFS requirements, making it essential for anyone in a childcare setting.
What the Paediatric First Aid course covers:
- CPR for babies and children
- Choking in infants
- Childhood illnesses
- Allergic reactions and anaphylaxis
- Asthma and breathing difficulties
- Head injuries
- Burns, bleeding and fractures
- Managing emergencies in childcare environments
The focus is on recognising and responding to the unique needs of babies and young children, whose symptoms and risks differ significantly from adults.
Key Differences Between EFAW and Paediatric First Aid
Although both courses teach vital life‑saving skills, the target audience, legal requirements and practical content are very different.
If you work with children, Paediatric First Aid is essential. If you work with adults, EFAW is usually the correct choice. Some people choose to complete both courses to broaden their skills.
Which First Aid Course Do You Need?
If you’re unsure, we’re here to help. At Flowers Training, we offer friendly, accredited first aid courses across Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, including Emergency First Aid at Work, Paediatric First Aid, Fire Safety, Manual Handling and more. Our goal is simple: to help you train with confidence and act with purpose.
Get in touch today to book your course or ask for guidance — we’re always happy to support you.
