Here are some of the questions we are often asked by sitters thinking about pursuing a full-time career as a professional nanny.
What does a nanny do?
Nanny roles will vary depending on the children & the parent’s needs; part of the service we provide here at Bubble is helping you find the role and family that is perfect for you. Every day is different which is one of the great things about being a nanny. Some of the general duties that are a requirement for most nannying roles include:
Creating a safe and stimulating environment for the children
Bathing and dressing
Changing nappies and potty training, if age-appropriate
Planning meals, preparing food, and/or feeding the children
Educational activities and crafts
Taking the children to school, activities, or playdates
Help with homework
Light children's housekeeping
What’s great about being a nanny?
Consultant and former nanny, Alice, had this to say:
"Being reminded daily of the joys and curiosity of life. Children have the most amazing ability to be present and at the moment, jumping in muddy puddles, belly laughing yourself tears, the possibilities are endless. Seeing a child grow and evolve into their own little characters and watching their personalities flourish is one of the most rewarding things. Creating lasting connections with the children as well as the families is something I hold very close to my heart! Being a Nanny made me my best self, it is the best job in the world that doesn't even feel like work!"
How many hours would a nanny generally work?
This will vary depending on the needs of the family. Generally, a full-time role will be from 35 - 50 hours on average and anything below 35 is considered part-time.
What can I earn as a nanny?
This would depend on many factors such as location, experience, number of children as well as many other variables. As a full-time junior nanny working 40 hours a week in London you could expect to earn upwards of £25,000 before taxes.
What skills do I need to become a nanny?
Again, different families will have different requirements based on their specific needs. First and foremost you will need to have a real love and passion for working with children! Most roles will require some experience working with children in either a 1-1 or nursery setting as well as a valid DBS & Paediatric 1st aid certificate. As part of our service Bubble can help you get the DBS & 1st aid if you were to be placed in a position through us.
As well as the above, most roles will also require you to have some sole charge childcare experience and two professional references related to childcare. Additional experience or qualifications such as Ofsted Registration, Accredited early years childcare qualifications or SEN experience isn’t required but will help you stand out from other applicants and are required for some roles
I want to be a nanny but I’m not sure how I can get the experience I need?
There are a variety of ways you can build up your skills to help you get that first role. Below are a few ideas of how you start your journey to becoming a professional nanny
Do as many sits on the app as you can with a variety of age ranges to help build a broader experience and discover which age group you connect with best
Look at our regular help section - often parents looking for After School help or shorter, regular support are more flexible with their requirements. (You can see & apply for these roles by enabling Regular Help on your request types found in your profile)
Search for roles where you would be supporting the parent rather than having sole charge
Volunteer for local playschool/groups aimed at children
Gain an early years childcare qualification
Build your childcare experience through working at a nursery
Still, thinking that becoming a professional nanny is the career for you? Click here to register your interest in an upcoming Q&A with professional nannies & one of our consultants to find out more about why it's great to be a nanny.