If you think that becoming a nanny is an easy task in England or abroad, let’s go through this text, it might convince you otherwise.
Being a nanny is one of the loveliest jobs in the world if you like children – but applying for a professional nanny position in England or abroad is itself a demanding job. This is justified since you are the ones who need to take care of, raise, and educate someone else’s children.
What do you need in order to be an effective nanny to English and international clients?
- A clean criminal record check (DBS)
- To be Ofsted registered (preferably)
- Childcare experience
- Education – many parents want their nanny to be educated, with language teaching skills, to be IT literate, and to have a lot of hobbies and interests
- To be kind, friendly, and patient
- To be professional and committed
Why DBS check and what is it?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) Check is a comprehensive check required by law which includes:
- A children’s barred list check that confirms whether the candidate is listed on a confidential register of people barred from working with children.
- Police Check – to ensure there is no information about the candidate that might make them unsuitable for work with children. This also includes information subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 – showing any criminal convictions or cautions which the candidate has received, including those that are classed as “spent”, which would not show up on a standard disclosure.
Register within an agency
The best way to find a good and safe nanny job is to register with a childcare agency, which is usually free of charge. They will require from you the items stated above: Proof of DBS check, passport or other ID, education diplomas or certificates, previous experience, and your CV.
What is important for a nanny in the UK?
As well as the requirements stated above, a nanny in England should be punctual and well presented. Also, it is expected that she or he takes responsibility for the development and safety of a child. Nannies’ duties are usually children’s laundry, cleaning their room and toys, and frequently, preparation of meals for children. You should be aware that your duties will include visits to a doctor, accompanying children to and from school, and to music or dance lessons. If you know how to play an instrument or do certain sports, you will be looked on favourably by your future employer.
Even though you are not a native Brit, your nanny services are just as in demand since, in the UK there are many families who want their children to have a nanny from their country. Just make sure that your level of English is good.
What is important for a British nanny abroad?
It is always advisable to be very cautious when applying for a position abroad. Before accepting any job offer, you should do some research on your potential employer.
- You should have at least two video interviews.
- You should check the references of the family. If you go through a childcare agency, it will be safer. If possible, find out the phone numbers of their previous nannies or other staff and see if you can ask them for info.
- Before agreeing to a long-term position, see if you can work a probation period.
- Make a Plan B – have a contingency plan in case the employer does not fulfill their promises; what would you do if you had this problem in a foreign country?
- Do some research on the country you are going to, check the experiences of nannies who are already there, and learn more about the culture and how it differs from yours. There could be customs and laws you never anticipated.
A nanny is more than just a babysitter
General guidelines for choosing a nanny in England or abroad are the following:
- English language skill – You should be a fluent English speaker, many international families want their children to know the English language besides their mother tongue, both in the UK and abroad.
- Education and work experience – You should have respected, relevant qualifications supported by experience in childcare.
- Reliability – You should be a hardworking, dedicated nanny with great love for your work and a strong sense of responsibility for the families you work for.
- A caring and outgoing personality – You should be pleasant, with a genuine interest in children and their well-being.
What kind of nanny positions can you opt for?
Before registering for a nanny position, first think how many hours you would like to work during the week. These positions are applicable to nannies both in the UK and internationally. Depending on the hours you prefer, you can be:
- A live-in nanny, who is responsible for the complete care of a family’s children, for example, getting the children up, keeping them amused and active, and taking them to various places.
- A live-out nanny, who provides childcare in a private home but in this case for set hours of the day.
- A night nanny, who is there to help parents out with their newborn baby. This nanny is usually required to work during the night and help establish good sleeping patterns both for the child and the new parents.
- A temporary nanny, who will assist a family for a few days, weeks, or months. If parents need to attend an important event, or their permanent nanny is taking a vacation, whatever the reason be, our temporary nannies will be there to provide the best childcare for the time required.
Attend some childcare related courses
Attending a course will improve your chances of being chosen by parents. It is well known that families prefer candidates who have completed a course. Whether the courses are online or live, it is a great way to become a professional nanny. Certified childcare training and education will be welcomed by parents and your CV will be considered ahead of others.
Also, early childhood education and care diplomas are in high demand, so don’t think that participating in a college course is a waste of time. Education plus experience are the winning combination.
Final thoughts
If you want to work with children as a nanny, be ready to put a lot of effort into becoming a professional and certified one. In the end, your work will be worth it!
