I want to become a childminder/nanny or a housekeeper for a family. How can I go about doing this?

Question

Jobs for housekeepers for private families are not advertised on job websites - does anyone know how I can go about finding this kind of work? Also what qualifications etc would I need to become a childminder/nanny? My baby is due on June 24th & when my maternity leave/pay runs out I am going to be stuck for money as my partner & I cannot afford childcare & would also like to spend the first few years with my child anyway. A private housekeeper/nanny/childminder would be an ideal way for me to earn money but spend time with my child also. Can anyone tell me where I can find private housekeeping jobs or give me some ideas & also tell me what qualifications I need for being a nanny & how I would go about finding a job as one?

Answer 1

Try the website greataupair.com. You can create a profile, explain what skills you have, and let families know what kind of job you are looking for. As far as training goes, you don't need much. Families are much more concerned with your personity and experience than with formal classes or training. I'm on there, and there are a lot of families looking for help. Good luck!

Answer 2

Hi there,

I think there are 2 answers to your question.

i) What qualifications do you need to become a nanny?

There are no qualifications required in order to work as a nanny, however, many families and employment agencies prefer candidates with relevant childcare qualifications.

There are a number of courses available that act as a useful preparation for a career as a nanny. They are available both full- and part-time and often include a placement; in the absence of a placement, voluntary experience working with children will be helpful.

The best of which is a CACHE (certificate in childcare and education)

ii) where do you find a housekeeper/nanny job for private families?

There are a couple of websites out there. By far the best is www.gumtree.com. They have listings for nanny jobs here - http://www.gumtree.com/london/4745_1.html and many of these listings are for private families. You can also post an ad in the nanny work wanted section on this site. By far the best resource and best of all it's free.

Answer 3

You are obviously aware that you have a dysfunctional family which is a good sign. So I assume you are not dysfunctional. You may want to seek a Counselor or get involved in a church and surround yourself with positive people. You are intelligent enough to see the difference between you and your family. You are headed in the right direction right now by asking for assistance. You may get many responses to your question as well, so read them and assess what you think will help. I am not an expert and you should never let someone make decisions for you. I don't know your age but find healthy activities... join a gym or something. I would seek counseling for sure...maybe just a few sessions so they can find the root of the problem and better direct you. Good luck.