Wimbledon Nannies - Qualifications

Some applicants become nannies purely by gaining experience rather than qualifications. However if you wish to find out more about obtaining relevant qualifications please contact your local college, which should be able to give you advice on the differing childcare courses available in your area. College trained Nannies have typically followed a two year course covering all aspects of childcare, from birth to the age of seven. In addition to formal written examinations, nannies must also receive satisfactory practical assessments.

Child Care Qualifications

NORLAND, CHILTERN AND PRINCESS CHRISTIAN

These are private, residential colleges which have their own nurseries for training on site. The course spans two years, and thereafter follows a probation period of between 6 and 9 months during which time a nanny is placed within a family. All subjects are covered thoroughly and students receive the DCE (NNEB) qualification and the Royal Society of Health Diploma.

DIPLOMA IN CHILD CARE AND EDUCATION (DCE)

This is a two year course covering the ages of 0 to 7. The DCE (NNEB) is probably the most recognised course and gives students an in depth knowledge of the physical, intellectual, social and emotional needs of different ages. Other subjects include health, hygiene, first aid and appropriate play. The course gives students hands on experience in hospitals, nurseries, schools and placements with families.

This Diploma formerly known as the CACHE Diploma in Nursery Nursing (DNN) but is still better known as and still referred to as NNEB -National Nursery Examination Board.

CERTIFICATE IN CHILD CARE AND EDUCATION (CCE)

A one year course which is undertaken along similar lines to the DCE but is not as detailed. A position as a mother's help is likely to be offered to candidates with the CCE.

BTEC (BUSINESS AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION COUNCIL) NURSERY NURSING DIPLOMA

A two year course covering the same subjects as the DCE but with more emphasis on the academic side. Modules are included for students focusing on teaching, nursing, social work and child care.

NAMCW (NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MATERNAL AND CHILD WELFARE)

A two year course which involves both practical experience and attendance at college, this is very similar to the DCE but cover all ages up to teenagers. Topics include special needs and the student qualifies for a supervisory role within nurseries. A one year course leading to a NAMCW certificate is also available. The NAMCW is not generally recognised as a substantial enough qualification to work in a day nursery, therefore if you are planning to work in a day nursery the DCE or BTEC is preferable. It is no longer possible to study this course, however, it is included in this list for information only.

NVQ LEVELS 2 AND 3

The NVQ qualification applies generally to those already involved in work with children and they may be assessed on their work whilst in employment. These courses can take up to two years to complete and are competence based. There are not examinations for an NVQ - this is purely carried out on assessment in the workplace or from a local assessment centre.

A DCE will exempt a candidate from Levels 1 and 2 of the NVQ and the candidate can start her NVQ at Level 3. This course is new and has replaced the City & Guild qualification, which was a one year course in child care.

MONTESSORI DIPLOMA

This is a privately run course which can be run on a full-time basis or by correspondence covering the ages 2-7. Training is based on the philosophy of Maria Montessori who believed that children could teach themselves within a structured learning environment.