How to become a Nanny
Nannies care for children as employees in private households.
Personal requirements for a Nanny
- Patient and mature with a willingness to accept responsibility
- Good organisation skills
- Able to work with young children
- Able to work unsupervised
- Good communication skills
- Reliable
- Able to multi-task
- Flexible and resourceful
Education & Training for a Nanny
You can work as a nanny without formal qualifications, but employers usually require Year 10. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications and you may like to consider a VET course. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.You can also become a nanny through a traineeship. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Additional information
To work as a nanny you must obtain a National Police Certificate, a Provide First Aid Certificate and a Working with Children Check. You will also need extremely good references.
Duties & Tasks of a Nanny
Nannies:
- Care for babies or young children by feeding, washing and dressing them, as well as by supervising their play and learning activities
- Plan creative play and learning activities and organise meal and sleep times
- Develop and/or maintain appropriate routines
- Communicate with parents to ensure their preferences regarding child care are maintained
- Safeguard children against potential dangers, such as swimming pools, kitchen utensils, poisons and stairs
- Take children to school, kindergarten and other activities
- Plan and prepare nutritious snacks and meals for children and possibly the family
- Care for and maintain children's belongings, bedrooms and play areas
- Take sole charge of children for extended periods while parents are absent from home
- Arrange and supervise outings
- Apply first aid and take appropriate action in cases of accident or emergency
- Perform light housekeeping duties when applicable, such as laundry or meal preparation.
Tasks
- Supervises children in recreational activities.
- Supervises the hygiene of children.
- Supervises the daily routine of children.
- Entertains children by reading and playing games.
- Manages children's behaviour and guides children's social development.
- Prepares and conducts activities for children.
- Assists in the preparation of materials and equipment for children's education and recreational activities.
Working conditions for a Nanny
Nannies employed full time may be required to live in their employers' homes. They may also be required to work in the evenings and on weekends.
Employment Opportunities for a Nanny
Employers and agencies have a strong preference for applicants with recognised qualifications and references. Opportunities for qualified Australian nannies are available overseas, especially in the United Kingdom, Europe, the USA and Canada.
Specializations
Governess
A governess supervises and tutors children (including school-age children) in educational programmes within private households. These positions are usually in remote locations.
Mother's Helper
A mother's helper assists new mothers with the additional work involved with the arrival of a new baby. They also care for other children, clean and cook meals.
Nanny
Nannies care for children as employees in private households.
Average age
27
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
98% female
Average full-time
42 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Entry level
Unemployment
Average unemployment
Full-Time Share
22%
Employment Size
7,100
Employment by state
ACT: 2.1%
NSW: 37.3%
NT: 0.6%
QLD: 18.1%
SA: 5.1%
TAS: 0.8%
VIC: 27.1%
WA: 8.9%
Age brackets
15-19: 19.1%
20-24: 27.9%
25-34: 23%
35-44: 9.7%
45-54: 9%
55-59: 5%
60-64: 3.9%
65 and Over: 2.5%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 13.5%
Bachelor degree: 14.6%
Certificate III/IV: 14.7%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 3.3%
Year 10 and below: 10.7%
Year 11: 4.9%
Year 12: 38.3%
