First aid in schools: risk assessments

Read a summary of the guidance on what you should consider when assessing first aid needs, and see how different schools are carrying out their risk assessments in practice.

Last reviewed on 4 March 2022
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 632
Contents
  1. Review your first aid needs regularly
  2. Risk assessments: examples from schools

Review your first aid needs regularly

The governing board and/or headteacher should do this, to ensure the first aid provision is adequate. 

When reviewing your first aid needs, consider factors such as:

  • The size of your school and whether it is on split sites and/or levels
  • Your school's location
  • Your school's layout
  • Any specific hazards or risks on site
  • The specific needs or disabilities of your pupils and staff
  • The age range of your pupils
  • The number of first aid personnel required

The review should happen at least annually, and particularly after any changes in circumstances, such as new premises or staff changes.

You can read more details on reviewing your first aid needs in the DfE's first aid in schools guidance.

See examples of risk assessment templates you can download in this article.

Risk assessments: examples from schools

Primary schools

Significant

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Also in "Pupils: risk assessments"