At Burlington Nannies we understand how daunting it can be finding the right nanny for your children. If you feel you have made the wrong choice it can leave you feeling concerned every time you leave your precious children with them. However, finding the right nanny will enrich your children’s lives and give you peace of mind every time you leave the house. We believe that the connection between the nanny and the family is vital. Having the same values and principles is key. If you go through the process of finding a nanny thoroughly it will become much easier to find someone who is loyal, professional and reliable to keep your children happy, healthy and safe.
Your Nanny Search
It is important that you sit down and prioritise what you are looking for in a nanny. Do you want a live in or daily nanny? Are you looking for a nanny who will do the day to day care and nursery duties or would you require someone who will also support your children’s education? What characteristics are you looking for in a nanny? Do you want someone who will be part of the family? Which values are you looking for in a person that will match your own? Once you have decided on your goals this will help you formulate a job description that you can refer to when looking for a nanny
Job Specifications
When it is time to put together your job spec it is ideal to make sure that it covers all your requirements and expectations. It is important to consider which areas of childcare are required along with family support. Decide whether you want someone who will cook for the children and which nursery duties they are required to do. For school runs will they need a nanny car? Be sure to include the days and hours and if any babysitting or proxy parenting would be required along with travelling on holidays. If you are looking for a nanny with qualifications it is best to state in the job description. Recognised qualifications you may want to consider are
- N.E.B (National Nursery Examination Board) Diploma now known as: CACHE (Council for Awards in Childcare and Education) Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education
- NVQ Level 3 in Early Years Care and Education (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
- SVQ Level 3 in Early Years Care and Education (Scotland)
- BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Child Studies
- Norland, The Chiltern College and Princess Christian are all private colleges studying the NNEB Diploma in Childcare
The Interview
Once you have selected the applicants you wish to meet it is important to meet the candidates face to face for an interview. It is best to have a list of questions ready before the interview so you are fully prepared and the conversation can flow more easily between you. Finding out what values and morals the nanny holds is key to finding out whether you are on the same page. Especially when it comes to discipline and education. Hearing their opinion will give you an insight as to whether you share the same parenting values. You can ask scenario based questions. For example, “what would you do if my child had a fever” or “how do you react when a child is having a tantrum”? We would also advise asking open ended questions that will require the nanny to give more detailed explanations rather than just yes or no answers. You will also get a clear idea of her professionalism and maturity in regards to how she can hold a conversation and can communicate.
Having spent some time with the nanny, if you are feeling confident, she is the right one you may wish to invite your children to meet with her. Its an excellent way to see how she will interact with your children and you can see how they respond in return.
Checks
So, you have now found the nanny who you believe to be perfect for your children. Before you both sign on the dotted line we strongly advise that all the necessary background checks are completed. As an agency we always insist that the nannies have an enhanced criminal record check. We use a Disclosure & Baring Service to obtain these. Additionally, we believe it is necessary to obtain references from previous employers. You can gain a mine of information in regards to the nanny’s character, their work ethics and how they built a relationship with the children in their care. Occasionally you may find that a past employer isn’t very forthcoming. on these occasions you may have to ask more specific questions or ask them to explain any comments that may be marginally negative. The more information you obtain the better for you.
Legal Requirements.
You are now fully satisfied you have found the right nanny. An employment contract should be drawn up and signed by both parties. You should be fully knowledgeable of the financial responsibilities involved. Nannies cannot be self employed when working in a private household. Therefore, you will be responsible for the taxes and insurance that is required to be paid. We understand that this can be time consuming and detailed records need to be kept. This is something that The Pink Payroll Company can assist you with. Please contact Amanda or Sandi to learn more. https://www.thepinkpayrollcompany.co.uk/
The search for a nanny can be very tiresome and we understand that in todays society parents are very busy. Many people employ an agency to take on the role on your behalf. Should you wish to employ a nanny and require some assistance please do not hesitate to contact Natasha at Burlington Nannies