Step-by-Step guide to finding an amazing Nursemaid job in London you actually want.

Before we begin finding the right role for you, looking at the term nursemaid and what it means in the modern context would be a good starting point.

Nursemaid is a term that has been superseded to a large degree by the term ’Nanny’, and most households looking to hire private staff will seek the services of a private staffing agency like Discretion Staffing to source a Nanny for their family. In very simple terms, the overarching responsibility of the Nanny or Nursemaid was to look after the family’s children.

While the role of the Nursemaid can be seen throughout history, it was only in the 1300s that the term ‘Nanny’ began to assert dominance in English. Its use was especially prevalent with affluent families who could afford the services of a Nanny/Nursemaid.

Moving forward in time, the role of the Nanny eclipsed the role of the Nursemaid. The Nanny would be expected to report to the Lady of the House and would often see their tenure with a family last for life with multiple generations of children under their care.

The Nanny was a common addition to the family structure during the time of the British Empire among families of note and high value.

Between the 1800s and the 20th Century, in very large households, Nursemaids, when needed, would report to Nannies. In these instances, the roles and responsibilities of a Nanny were marked out, with the Nursemaid typically looking after the biological needs of younger children and the Nanny taking overall responsibility for the holistic care of all the children.

Hopefully, the brief history of the terms will shed a little light on the differences and similarities between a nanny and a nursemaid. Here are some quick tips to help you find an amazing Nursemaid Job you want in London.

Here are three key tips that you should always consider when trying to find the right Nursemaid or Nanny job for you.

1.      Choose a reputable agency to represent you.

It might sound obvious, but working with an agency like Discretion Staffing can make a massive difference. Our agency has well over thirty years of experience in private staffing and serving some of the world's most affluent families. Our clients trust us to provide the best nannies available, and through their trust in us, you can trust us, too.

We gain a deep understanding of the family, the role, and the situation you will be entering. We make expectations clear and transparent between all parties so everyone knows what to expect and what has been agreed upon within the service. Without our nannies, we can't supply the platinum service we have become famous for without our nannies and nursemaids knowing we are on their side as much as we are on our client's side.

2. Qualifications and credentials.

A UK nanny does not need to have any formal qualifications, unlike a childminder, who would need to qualify to become a childminder. However, it can't be stated strongly enough that being a nanny or a nursemaid is a complex and demanding role.

As a minimum requirement, Discretion Staffing would expect any applicant to be able to evidence;

A minimum of 2 years of experience spent in a nanny or nursemaid job with a private family.

A current and up-to-date first aid certificate relevant to the household needs (BLS, PLS, NLS etc)

Proof of up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding procedures

Relevant insurance

Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check

Minimum of 2 references

3. Be honest about what you want.

The last of our tips. It is important to be honest about what you want and why you want it when you seek a nursemaid job or a role as a nanny. Private staffing agencies like Discretion Staffing rely on their nannies and nursemaids to be honest about how they feel about the work they are offered. A general rule of thumb is if you are unsure, then don't do it. Working for a private family can be demanding, and you will often have to be flexible in travel and, on occasion, your duties.

Ask questions that are important to you. After all, there is no point in softening the truth just to get a nanny or a nursemaid role if you leave after a few weeks because you didn't clarify something important to you.

The team at Discretion Staffing hope this article helped a little and if you are looking for a nanny or you want to find your next nanny or nursemaid job then get in touch.