Faced with choosing a nanny there are a few strategies that can be used to narrow down the field. Some parents insist on a nanny holding a childcare qualification of some kind, some expect a minimum level of childcare qualification, others place no importance on candidates having any kind of training in childcare. But is this a good idea?
Is there a requirement for a nanny to have a qualification?
Legally anyone can call themselves a nanny. Agencies often require candidates on their books to hold some kind of formal training in childcare. OFSTED and other regulatory bodies require registered or approved home childcarers to hold training in the common core skills for the childcare workforce. If you need a nanny to register than you will need to look for a nanny with some kind of training.
What are the advantages of a qualification?
A nanny who holds a childcare qualification at any level has some kind of awareness of child development, appropriate discipline techniques, how to promote children’s welfare (including health and nutrition) and how to work with parents and professionals. A level 3 childcare qualification means a nanny has practical experience of working with young children, planning and evaluating educational activities, and a good understanding of child development along with the various factors that affect a child’s progression, nutrition and health among thing things.
Can an unqualified nanny be as good as a qualified nanny?
That entirely depends on what you are looking for. All great nannies have good instincts and a genuine love of children which cannot be taught. Some unqualified nannies take every opportunity to inform and educate themselves and although they do not have a formal certificate have knowledge equal to any qualified nanny. Other nannies, although they don’t hold formal training in early years have other qualifications in the fields of education or healthcare for example.
Well how do I choose a nanny then?
A big heart, loving arms, common sense, an interest in learning what she doesn’t know, commitment, a willingness to work with you and the ability to spend all day, every day with children helping them to learn and grow are all far more important than a qualification. View that particular piece of paper as the icing on the top.