This help centre article has been written for the Koru Kids nanny service, to support families during their trial periods with a new nanny.
Yes, you can absolutely have a trial! There are two options moving forward:
If you’re confident you’ve found the right fit, you can offer the nanny the role straight away. The first two weeks of the contract act as a probation period, giving you the flexibility to do as many shifts as needed to ensure they’re the right match for your family.
If you’re not 100% sure, a paid trial is a great next step.
What Is a Trial?
A trial is a paid shift or two that allows you to see the nanny in action, whether it's running through the after-school routine or having a ‘play date’ to observe how they interact with your children. It’s a valuable way to check their suitability for the role before deciding to proceed.
Booking a Trial
To book a trial, follow these steps:
In your chat with the nanny, scroll to the bottom and click 'Pick a next step.'
Select 'Book optional trial.'
Enter the date, time, and location, and confirm.
Top Tip: Before booking, confirm the nanny’s availability to ensure they’re happy to do the trial shift.
You’ll see the cost of the trial and provide payment details during booking—no need for cash on the day.
Payment is only processed after you confirm that the trial took place.
* Please note all trials are to be paid via card.
If you need any support booking a trial with a nanny, you can contact us by emailing care@korukids.co.uk or click the live chat message button to chat with the team.
Important Notes on Trials
DBS Checks: Koru Kids performs an Enhanced DBS check only after a family formally hires a nanny. This means that during the trial stage, most nannies won’t have a DBS check unless they’ve worked with another family through Koru Kids or from a previous job. Read more about DBS checks here.
Be Present: We recommend that you or another trusted adult be present during the trial.
Trial vs. Probation Period
A trial is designed to last for 1-2 shifts and shouldn’t be used as a replacement for a probation period. All Koru Kids contracts include a two-week probation period, during which you or the nanny can give 24 hours' notice if the arrangement isn’t working out.
Some families choose to skip the trial altogether and use the probation period instead.
Once you proceed with a contract, we’ll immediately begin the DBS check process for your nanny.
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Tags: nanny trials, trialling nannies, trial period, interview, probation period