WHAT IS A NANNY?

Nannies are professionals in childcare. The term 'nanny' is used to describe a qualified nursery nurse i.e: someone who has passed one of the following qualifications:

BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in Childhood Studies (Nursery Nursing).

The Certificate is a one-year full time course offered to mature candidates.

The Diploma is a two-year full time course. Students should be at least 16 years old and possess a minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade C or above, preferably including English and Maths.

NNEB Diploma in Nursery Nursing.

This is awarded by the Council for Awards in Children's Care and Education (CACHE). This can be a two-year full time course, but can also be obtained on a part time basis.

NVQ National Vocational Qualification in Childcare and Education.

These are awarded for competence in work situations and reflect knowledge and understanding of the work concerned.

There are also several other specific qualifications issued by organisations i.e The London Montessori Centre and City and Guilds.

In addition there are three residential training colleges for nursery nurses, Norland College, Chiltern Nursery Training College and Princess Christian College.