A good nanny is patient, organised, caring and personally dedicated to nurturing children. A nanny can also be highly qualified and demonstrate high levels of professionalism. While it is not mandatory in the UK for a nanny to have qualifications, employers will look for relevant qualifications for peace of mind when it comes to the health and wellbeing of their family.
Some agencies will only take you on if you have qualifications, and there are some key certificates needed if you want to register as a nanny with Ofsted. Nanny qualifications can improve your skills and enhance your employability. The following is a breakdown of key qualifications to boost your career in nannying.
Nanny Diploma - This 24 week course from the International Career Institute is packed with the key skills and essential knowledge you will need to start as a nanny. Covering health and safety, child development, child psychology, nutrition and food preparation, safety in the home and out and about, this course is the perfect place to start.
Pediatric First Aid - A must for all nannies, both early career nannies and the more experienced. This course needs regularly revisiting and upgrading. For employing families and for agencies, an up to date first aid certificate is crucial for all nannies. We all know children get up to all sorts, and bumps and bruises are routine. In addition to basic care for cuts and scrapes, a pediatric first aid course will train you to be able to take care of a poorly child and to deal with minor injuries, or major injuries while you wait for incoming emergency services. You will learn resuscitation for children and babies (CPR), how to deal with choking, seizures, anaphylaxis, check for signs of breathing and how to deal with shock.
Early Years Education - There are various certificates and courses available at differing levels: Diplomas range from Levels 2 through to 5 in Early Years Education. For many families, a dedication to their child’s educational development is essential in a nanny. A qualification in this area demonstrates that you are capable of supporting the educational growth of a child, from birth to 5 years old. Qualifications in this field follow the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. You will cover effective communication, health and wellbeing, playing and learning, and gain knowledge of Early Years Key Stage requirements.
Safeguarding and Child Protection - Many children and young people now engage in activities online. As a nanny, you may have children in your care who are allowed to use internet connected technology, so it is important that you understand how a child can stay safe online. Many charities including the NSPCC offer training courses for you to understand how children use online spaces, and how you can work with them and their family, to ensure this is handled securely and safely.
With the right qualifications, a loving attitude and lots of energy, your career as a nanny can be rewarding and fulfilling for you, the children in your care and their family.
