Tag: nanny

Registering as a Nanny on the Voluntary Part of the Ofsted Childcare Register

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As a nanny, you’re not required to register with Ofsted, but doing so voluntarily can significantly enhance your professional standing. Being on the Voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register demonstrates that you meet recognized standards, making your services more attractive to parents who may also benefit from government childcare subsidies. Here’s what you need to know about the registration process, benefits, costs, and timelines.

Registration process

As a nanny, you may care for children from two different families in the home of one of those families. However, if care is provided to more than two families simultaneously, it is classified as childminding, requiring you to register as a childminder.

To register, apply online via the government’s official website and submit the necessary documents as outlined in further instructions.

Ofsted typically completes nanny registrations within 10 weeks of issuing your unique reference number (URN), though processing times can occasionally be longer.

If approved, you will receive a registration certificate and a URN. Ofsted will also publish your URN and any inspection reports online.

What you need

Before you begin your application, you’ll need to gather the following:

Enhanced DBS Check: This background check confirms your suitability to work with children. It includes a review of your criminal record against the Police National Computer (PNC) for both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings. Additionally, any relevant information held locally by police forces that may relate to the child workforce and the specific role is disclosed at the discretion of a Chief Police Officer. This check requires an annual DBS update service to maintain your status, and applicants should register on the update service within 30 days of receiving their DBS check.

Certificate of Good Character: This is required only if you’ve lived outside the country in the past five years to confirm your conduct while abroad. You’ll need to apply either in the specific country or through the relevant embassy in the UK.

Paediatric First Aid Certificate: Completing a paediatric first aid course is mandatory, and this certification must be renewed every three years. Please note that only courses delivered in person are considered suitable.

Childcare Qualification: A minimum Level 2 Childcare qualification is required. If you do not meet this standard, the Level 2 Common Core Skills and Knowledge qualification can be obtained to demonstrate essential childcare knowledge.

Public Liability Insurance: You must have public liability insurance before applying to register as a nanny or starting work as one. If you do not yet have this policy when submitting your registration application, you can still complete your application. However, Ofsted will need confirmation that your insurance is in place before they approve your application.

Once you have these documents, you can begin your application by setting up a government gateway account.

The application process is straightforward, and here is the specific link for nannies.

Costs Involved

Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with registering as a nanny:

Time Scales

The timeline for completing your registration as a nanny is as follows:

Important Contact Details

For enquiries and help with registration, you can contact Ofsted here;

Email: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk

Phone: 0300 123 1231.

Direct link to apply on the register:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-to-join-the-childcare-register-cr1

Insurance company: Morton Mitchel

Email: customerservice@mortonmichel.com

Phone: 0330 058 9861

Website: https://www.mortonmichel.com/

For further details, including specific exemptions, visit the government’s official website.

The London School of Childcare Studies offers all three essential training courses as a package, saving you money compared to buying each separately. This package includes paediatric first aid, common core skills and knowledge and a DBS check. Read more here: Voluntary Register with OFSTED Training Package

* correct at time of posting

10 Ways to Ruin Your Nanny Interview

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Ten Ways to Ruin Your Nanny Interview

(and How to Avoid Them!)

You’ve got the qualifications and experience, but you didn’t get the job. Why? Sometimes small missteps during an interview can leave the wrong impression. Here are ten common mistakes that could cost you the position—and how to make sure you shine instead.

1. Being Late

Punctuality is essential. Arriving late signals disorganisation and unreliability—qualities no employer wants in a nanny. Employers are busy, often with demanding schedules, so being tardy may raise doubts before the interview even begins. Plan ahead, account for traffic, and aim to arrive early.

2. No Handshake or Eye Contact

First impressions count. Greet your employers with a warm handshake—it’s a simple courtesy that reflects good manners. Maintaining steady eye contact throughout the interview is just as important, and be sure to give equal attention to both employers if more than one is present. Avoiding eye contact can make you seem disengaged, while addressing only one employer may appear disrespectful.

3. Dodging the Parents

While your primary role will involve working with children, engaging with the parents during the interview is crucial. Asking thoughtful questions and offering well-prepared answers demonstrates strong communication skills. For example, mentioning relevant qualifications like sleep training certifications shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.

4. Ignoring the Children

Engaging with the children during the interview is just as important as connecting with the parents. You’re there as a potential carer for their children, so showing that you can bond with them helps build trust and demonstrates your suitability for the role.

5. Dressing Inappropriately

Striking the right balance between professional and practical is key. While it’s important to look polished, remember that nannying is an active role. Choose comfortable, season-appropriate clothing that allows you to get hands-on if asked to interact with the children during the interview.

6. Bad-Mouthing Past Employers

If asked about challenges in previous roles, stay professional and objective. Speaking negatively about a former employer’s routines or decisions can make you seem difficult to work with. Instead, focus on how you handled challenges constructively, demonstrating problem-solving skills and adaptability.

7. Mobile Phone Interruption

Few things disrupt an interview like a ringing phone. Make sure your phone is silenced—or better yet, switch it off entirely. This simple step shows respect for your employers’ time and underscores your professionalism.

8. Rambling On

Balance is everything. Listen attentively to your employers’ questions, and respond with clear, thoughtful answers. Avoid one-word replies, but don’t ramble or dominate the conversation either. A confident and conversational tone will help you leave a positive impression.

9. Asking About Salary and Holiday Times

While pay and time off are important, don’t bring these topics up unless the employers do first. Jumping straight to these questions can make it seem like you’re more focused on personal gain than fitting into their family dynamic. If the topic arises, be ready to back up your expected rate with your qualifications and training.

10. Failing to Prepare

Preparation is key to a successful interview. Take time to research the family and understand their expectations. This effort shows genuine interest in the role and respect for their time, while also helping you tailor your responses to align with their needs.

The Takeaway

Securing a nanny position goes beyond just having the right qualifications; it’s about making a positive, lasting impression. By being prepared, professional, and personable, you can demonstrate your reliability and suitability for the role. Avoid these common pitfalls, and you’ll give yourself the best chance to stand out and show potential employers why you’re the right fit for their family.

For help writing a CV, see our nanny CV template

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CV

How To Write a Good CV

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How to Write a Standout CV

Updated Guidance for 2025

Your CV is your first chance to make an impression on a future employer—it’s the gateway to securing an interview and landing your next role. A well-crafted CV can make all the difference, so it’s essential to ensure it’s polished, professional, and tailored to the job you’re applying for.

In this updated guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to creating a standout CV, with tips to ensure your application catches the eye of potential employers.

1. Formatting Matters

The layout and design of your CV can leave a lasting first impression. A clean, professional look shows attention to detail and helps employers focus on your qualifications.

  • Use a clear, readable font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 10–12.
  • Limit your CV to two A4 pages, highlighting only relevant information.
  • Maintain consistent formatting throughout (e.g., bold all headings and use uniform bullet points).
  • Check for spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors.
  • Avoid adding a photo unless explicitly requested.
  • Tailor your CV to the job, showcasing qualities and experiences that match the role.

2. Contact Details

Make it easy for employers to reach you with accurate, professional contact information:

  • Full Name: Include your first and last name.
  • Mobile Number: Ensure it’s one you can answer during the day.
  • Email Address: Use a professional email format, e.g., jane.smith@email.com.
  • Location: Specify your town or city rather than your full address for privacy.

3. Personal Statement

Place a short, well-written personal statement at the top of your CV. This brief section (no more than three sentences) should highlight why you’re a strong candidate, encouraging employers to keep reading.

4. Work Experience

List your professional history, starting with your most recent role. For each position, include:

  • Start and end dates (month and year).
  • Job title and employer’s name.
  • A summary of your key duties and achievements. Be specific (e.g., “Supported bottle feeding and managed daily routines for twins aged 6 months”).

If you’ve had numerous short-term roles: Combine them into an overarching summary to avoid repetition.

5. Education and Qualifications

Include your educational background in reverse chronological order, detailing:

  • Schools, colleges, or universities attended.
  • Qualifications achieved, including dates and grades (if relevant).

6. Additional Information

Highlight certifications or details that add value to your application, such as:

  • A valid, up-to-date DBS check.
  • UK full, clean driving licence.
  • Nationality and visa status (if applicable).

7. Interests and Hobbies

Give employers a glimpse of your personality by sharing hobbies and interests that reflect your character and dedication, such as volunteering or skill-based activities.

8. References

Simply state: “References available upon request.” Ensure your referees are prepared to provide a strong recommendation when needed.

Looking for Inspiration?

Explore our sample CV templates for Maternity Nurses and Nannies to see how these principles come to life.

Your CV is your chance to shine—make it count!

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