If you are considering your childcare options, you may be thinking about having a nanny. To help you make up your mind, read our guide...
Posted: 19 November 2011
What can and can't you expect from a nanny?
A trained nanny is a professional. She will have in mind exactly what she will and will not do in your household. Normally, she will consider her duties to be: laundry (children only), cleaning (children’s bedrooms and playroom only), cooking (children only). Of course there are qualified nannies who are willing to be flexible as well as au pairs and untrained nannies who offer housework plus childcare.
You can expect your live-in nanny to babysit for you two nights a week at no extra cost. Most nannies now offer weekly or fortnightly menus and some will do development profiles on your children for you.
What training does a nanny have?
CACHE level three (Diploma in Childcare Education) is a two year training which provides a nanny who understands the development of children up to eight years and works with children and their families to promote the care and education of the child.
Some nannies such as the prestigious Norland nannies are highly trained while others have no formal training at all but may have years of experience.
When deciding what’s best for you it may help to consider the age of your baby or child. Look at what experience the nanny has and what age charges she has previously cared for. Be sure to check over her references and ask if she has current first aid training.
Does a nanny have to be registered?
Usually families will pay the cost of their nannies becoming registered with Ofsted as they will benefit from tax relief, but it is not essential.
What should I check?
Talk to at least two former employers and, if possible, check references going back over the last five years. If they're qualified ask to see their certificates as well as a current first aid certificate. You should also make sure that they have had a criminal records bureau, or CRB check, and ask to see proof of this along with the childcare register paperwork if applicable. If they are not from the UK ask to see their passport.
How do I draw up a contract?
You should always have a contract so that both parties know exactly where they stand as far as salary (and salary review), job description including hours/days, duties, time off (bank holidays), sick pay, holiday pay, allowance, disciplinary action, notice on both sides.
