We are on the search for a long term, experienced, caring nanny for our 3 children (& dog!) 3 days a week (Mon, Tues and Thurs) who will enjoy embracing our busy family life. We have only had 3 Nanny’s in the past 9 years who have all become close friends.
It is hard writing a spec in covid life but as we approach ‘normal’, I will try to detail what we will need as my husband and I start to return to the office.
The role will be approx 20 hours in term time & around to 30 in school holidays. As my youngest is now at school we only need an after-school nanny 2pm-6.30. However, 1 day can be a full day 8-6.30 taking kids to school and using the day to sort kids’ laundry, cooking etc.
Driving is essential (preferably experience with a big car or for the nanny to us their own car.) Our 2 boys go to school in Richmond & we live in Putney so a Nanny who is competent with the school run is essential. As we head back to the office it would be preferable if the Nanny is local & could come to us for 7.30 to do the morning school run and then return for after school. Obviously working from home means I have been able to do the drop offs. Getting 3 ready in the morning and into the car should be fine for an experienced nanny but it takes organisation!
I don't expect any Nanny to be a teacher but fluent English and reasonable understanding on their key school subjects is needed.
The children are 2 boys (11 &8) and a 4 (almost 5) year-old girl. We need someone who, whilst being fun, will have experience with discipline, routine. I should say now that my middle son has recently been diagnosed with ADHD. This is very manageable, but it is key to build a strong bond and gain his respect. Our current nanny has been great with him & they get on very well, she is very happy to help with the handover.
The Children:
Our 11 yr old is incredibly organised & helpful, funny and generally very easy! He is very sporty & would like a nanny who would be happy kicking a ball around with him in the garden!
Our 8 yr old is a very funny confident & loving boy who adores arts & crafts, give him a box, Sellotape & he will create an empire! He is good at pushing boundaries though and obviously this is where the ADHD comes in. As I have mentioned the key is gaining his respect, therefore we need a Nanny who has experience with discipline & structure. At school he is an angel, so he just needs structure to his days even in the summer holidays. He is otherwise a very gorgeous happy and funny boy who loves to learn and has a keen interest in history.
Our 4 yr old is the surprise pink package at the bottom! She is a very happy girl, and very tough! Just a joy to be a round! She loves any princess dressing up and barbies!
The Hours: In normal life the boys go to school in Richmond for 8.15am and our daughter goes to school very close by. Ideally the Nanny could come 1 full day and then for 2 days the morning school run, then after school. Our current nanny does this and come sat 2pm to walk the dog and prep supper, laundry before collecting the kids.
They come home, do homework (with support) have tea / bath time etc.
Babysitting may be required for extra pay on request, once a week.
The summer holidays will be here soon so hopefully the Nanny can increase the hours to 3 full days. We are happy for the Nanny to plan their own days out. The boys will probably attend sports camps. Most half terms we will try to take time off, with a couple of weeks in the summer & we would appreciate it if the nanny can tie in holidays with us as much as possible.
We are really keen to build a long-term relationship with the nanny. I may need to travel to the midlands once a month, so although my husband will be here, having someone I can trust & keep the house running, be on top of the kids routines / requirements, is key for me.
Thank you SO much for taking the time to read all this! Sorry it is long but if you think this suits you please get in touch.
Julia