OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA)

OSHAA Certified 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA)

The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA) is a comprehensive training programme designed to equip learners with essential first aid skills for infants and children. This course focuses on recognising, assessing, and responding to medical emergencies in childcare and child-focused environments. Learners develop confidence in handling injuries, sudden illnesses, and critical situations while maintaining a calm and responsible approach. The programme is not Ofqual regulated and is structured to emphasize practical knowledge, real-life application, and a strong sense of duty of care when managing paediatric emergencies.

This professional diploma provides in-depth understanding of paediatric first aid principles relevant to everyday and professional settings. Learners gain awareness of child-specific risks, emergency response techniques, and safe care practices suitable for nurseries, schools, homes, and community environments. The course content aligns well with individuals holding or working alongside safety-related certifications and professional diplomas in areas such as childcare safety, health and safety, emergency response, and care support. Emphasis is placed on preparedness, effective decision-making, and maintaining child wellbeing during emergency situations.

OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA) offers a valuable foundation for those responsible for the safety and welfare of children. The training enhances professional credibility and complements a wide range of certifications and diplomas by strengthening paediatric first aid competence. Learners benefit from structured modules, scenario-based learning, and clear guidance on managing emergencies effectively until further assistance is available. This diploma is ideal for individuals seeking to improve confidence, practical skills, and readiness when responding to paediatric emergencies in both professional and personal settings.

Program Highlights

Mandatory Unit

  1. Introduction to Paediatric First Aid and Legal Responsibilities (2 Hours)
  2. Understanding Child Physiology and Emergency Response Principles (3 Hours)
  3. Primary Survey, Casualty Assessment, and Recovery Position for Infants and Children (3 Hours)
  4. Paediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and AED Operation (5 Hours)
  5. Management of Unconscious Infants and Children (4 Hours)
  6. Control of Bleeding, Wound Care, and Shock Management in Children (4 Hours)
  7. First Aid for Burns, Scalds, and Thermal Injuries in Paediatric Cases (4 Hours)
  8. Managing Fractures, Sprains, and Soft Tissue Injuries in Children (3 Hours)
  9. Response to Common Paediatric Medical Emergencies: Asthma, Seizures, and Allergic Reactions (2 Hours)

The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA) is open to learners who meet basic eligibility criteria.

  • Age Requirement: Minimum 18 years old
  • Educational Requirements: Secondary education recommended; related diplomas or certificates in first aid, childcare safety, health and safety, or emergency response are beneficial
  • Language Proficiency: Basic English reading and communication skills required
  • Work Experience: Childcare or safety-related experience is an advantage but not essential

Learning Outcomes

Introduction to Paediatric First Aid and Legal Responsibilities (2 Hours)

  • Understand the principles and scope of paediatric first aid.
  • Recognise the legal and ethical responsibilities of providing first aid to children.
  • Identify the importance of accurate record-keeping and incident reporting.

Understanding Child Physiology and Emergency Response Principles (3 Hours)

  • Understand key differences between adult and child anatomy and physiology.
  • Recognise signs of medical distress in infants and children.
  • Apply basic emergency response protocols tailored to paediatric needs.

Primary Survey, Casualty Assessment, and Recovery Position for Infants and Children (3 Hours)

  • Conduct a structured primary survey for paediatric emergencies.
  • Perform an effective casualty assessment to identify priorities for care.
  • Demonstrate correct techniques for placing infants and children in the recovery position.

Paediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and AED Operation (5 Hours)

  • Demonstrate paediatric-specific CPR techniques for infants and children.
  • Safely operate an Automated External Defibrillator in paediatric emergencies.
  • Integrate CPR and AED use into an effective resuscitation sequence.

Management of Unconscious Infants and Children (4 Hours)

  • Identify causes of unconsciousness in paediatric cases.
  • Apply safe handling techniques to maintain airway and breathing.
  • Implement appropriate care while awaiting advanced medical support.

Control of Bleeding, Wound Care, and Shock Management in Children (4 Hours)

  • Identify different types of bleeding in paediatric patients.
  • Apply correct first aid techniques for wound cleaning and dressing.
  • Recognise and manage signs of shock in children effectively.

First Aid for Burns, Scalds, and Thermal Injuries in Paediatric Cases (4 Hours)

  • Distinguish between different degrees of burns in children.
  • Apply immediate and effective treatment for burns and scalds.
  • Understand when to seek urgent medical care for burn injuries.

Managing Fractures, Sprains, and Soft Tissue Injuries in Children (3 Hours)

  • Identify common musculoskeletal injuries in paediatric patients.
  • Apply safe immobilisation techniques for fractures and sprains.
  • Provide appropriate first aid to minimise further injury.

Response to Common Paediatric Medical Emergencies: Asthma, Seizures, and Allergic Reactions (2 Hours)

  • Recognise symptoms of asthma attacks, seizures, and severe allergic reactions.
  • Apply correct first aid techniques for each medical emergency.
  • Understand the importance of rapid response and escalation of care.

The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA) is designed for individuals who are responsible for the safety, care, and wellbeing of infants and children in professional or everyday environments.

Childcare and Early Years Professionals

  • Nursery and preschool staff
  • Childminders and daycare providers
  • Teaching assistants and school support staff
  • Early years practitioners
  • After-school and activity club workers

Education and Learning Support Staff

  • Primary school teachers
  • Classroom assistants
  • Special education support workers
  • School activity coordinators
  • Learning support professionals

Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers

  • Parents responsible for child safety
  • Guardians and foster carers
  • Family support carers
  • Individuals caring for infants and young children
  • Home-based caregivers

Healthcare and Care Support Workers

  • Care assistants and support workers
  • Community care staff
  • Residential care personnel
  • Volunteers in child-focused care settings
  • Health support staff working with children

Sports, Leisure, and Community Workers

  • Children’s sports coaches
  • Leisure and play centre staff
  • Youth group leaders
  • Community activity supervisors
  • Recreational programme coordinators

Organizations Focused on Child Safety

  • Childcare providers improving safety standards
  • Schools and educational institutions
  • Community and voluntary organizations
  • Training centres supporting child welfare
  • Employers prioritizing child safety awareness

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary aim of this diploma is to equip learners with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to medical emergencies involving infants and children. The course focuses on practical first aid actions, early assessment, and safe care techniques that can be applied in childcare, education, and home environments.

Yes, the course highlights the differences between adult and paediatric first aid. Learners are introduced to child- and infant-specific response methods, ensuring they understand how to manage emergencies appropriately for different age groups.

This course is ideal for childcare professionals, teachers, parents, guardians, and individuals working with children in community or recreational settings. It is also valuable for anyone who has a duty of care toward children and wants to be prepared to handle emergency situations responsibly.

The diploma emphasizes real-life application and scenario-based understanding. Learners gain practical insight into managing emergencies calmly and effectively, helping them build confidence and decision-making skills in critical situations.


After completing the course, learners can expect increased confidence, improved emergency awareness, and stronger paediatric first aid skills. These outcomes help create safer environments for children and support responsible care in both professional and personal settings.

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