Working as a nanny

What is a nanny?

Nannies work in a family's home, looking after their child or children and, unlike registered childminders, they are an employee of the family.

What will I be doing?

Duties are typically focused on childcare and any household chores or tasks related to the children. This could include: doing the children's laundry, preparing their meals, cleaning dishes/wiping down kitchen after children's meals, loading/unloading the dishwasher and keeping the children's bedrooms and play areas clean and tidy.

Most nannies consider their job to be looking after every aspect of the child's well-being.

Any childcare qualification is relevant to becoming a nanny and you should look to becoming qualified to at least Level 3. You could decide to study for a Diploma in Home Based Childcare; this is a specific qualification for those people who are looking after children either in their own home or the children’s. You should also complete a First Aid course.

How do I find a job as a nanny?

You may want to contact an agency. You will be required to have an interview, undertake a CRB check and give references.

Name of agency	Contact number
Sunrise Nanny Agency	01202 267768
Family Match	01962 855799
Little Darlings Nanny Agency	0870 777 1936

You could also look on certain websites that advertise on behalf of families looking for a nanny, or in specialist childcare magazines.