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Introduction In July 2026, the Department for Education published new statutory guidance on Allergy Safety in Schools . The guidance strengthens expectations around how schools identify, manage and respond to allergies and anaphylaxis. It reflects growing awareness of the increasing number of children and young people living with allergies and the potentially life-threatening consequences of allergic reactions. The guidance makes clear that allergy safety is not simply a medical issue. It is also a safeguarding, health and safety, equality and inclusion responsibility. The publication of this statutory guidance follows significant national campaigning by the family of Benedict Blythe following his death from anaphylaxis at school in 2021. Often referred to as 'Benedict's Law', the campaign called for stronger and more consistent allergy safety arrangements within schools. The subsequent Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026 introduced new allergy safety duties, whic...

Prefer a printable version?  Click here to download this briefing as a PDF  for easy circulation and distribution. About this Briefing The Department for Education has published updated EYFS Statutory Frameworks that come into force on 1 September 2026. There are two separate frameworks: one for group and school-based providers and one for childminders. While there are some differences in how certain requirements apply, particularly for those operating on domestic premises, the majority of the safeguarding and welfare changes are consistent across both frameworks. This briefing provides an overview of the key changes affecting early years providers and childminders and highlights any areas where requirements may differ.   Overview The 2026 EYFS Statutory Framework is primarily an evolution rather than a complete rewrite of the 2025 framework. The learning and development requirements, educational programmes, Early Learning Goals, assessment arrangements and most ratio req...