Nannies

Nannies do not need to be registered with Ofsted and although most parents would expect a nanny to have a childcare qualification, this is not a legal requirement.

The Council for Awards in Children’s Care and Education (CACHE) is the official Awarding body for Early Years, Care and Education and Playwork. The relevant qualifications a nanny should have are as follows

BTEC National Certificate or Diploma in Early Years

Level 3 Diploma in Home Based Childcare. This was developed in conjunction with the National Childminders Association and gives nannies the skills to work with children aged 0-16.

Certificate or Diploma in Childcare Education

This includes working with special needs children and the under 8’s.

We would suggest that holding a suitable First Aid qualification is a must along with Public Liability Insurance.

All nannies who register on the voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register (vOCR) will have both of these along with an enhanced Criminal Records Bureau check.

If you choose to go through a reputable nanny agency they should have carefully vetted the nannies on their books but make sure you ask what checks they have undertaken.

Be clear in your own mind the type of person and duties you require. The Directgov website suggests some of the questions you may need to ask of yourself and your prospective nanny. www.direct.gov.uk/parents.

Always ask for references and make sure you follow them up.