Nanny/Manny

Nanny & Manny

What is the role of a Nanny?

The traditional role of a Nanny has evolved, mirroring the shifts in various positions within private households. For instance, a role that was historically fulfilled by women now welcomes men, known as Mannies. These Mannies undertake the same responsibilities as their female counterparts and are sometimes preferred by families with all boys. Another adaptation is the fusion of roles, like that of a Nanny/Housekeeper, particularly suitable for families with school-aged children. Additional combined roles include Nanny/Governess, Nanny/Tutor, and Nanny/PA, reflecting the changing landscape of household staffing.


The Nanny/Manny is entrusted with creating a secure, affectionate, nurturing, and joyful atmosphere for the children in the employer's household. They handle all childcare responsibilities, as well as any associated tasks and chores specific to the child/children. Typically, these positions involve sole responsibility, occasionally shared with the mother. Nannies cater to infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children, from individual children to multiple siblings. In certain affluent households, each child may have a dedicated Nanny proficient in caring for a specific age group.


A Nanny/Manny must possess exceptional pedagogical skills and a deep understanding of developmental milestones in order to cater to the cognitive, physical, social, and spiritual needs of the children under their care. They engage the children in a variety of age-appropriate indoor and outdoor activities tailored to each child's unique needs and abilities. Responsibilities will differ depending on the specific needs and preferences of each family, and the following are typical duties associated with the role of a Nanny/Manny.

Responsibilities of a Nanny

  • Responsible for the safety, health and well-being of children in his or her care
  • Be a good role model for the children at all times
  • Get children up, washed and dressed
  • Make breakfast
  • Organise school bag/sports-wear for P.E and swimming, and reading books
  • Take children to and from school
  • Children’s laundry - wash, dry, iron and put away
  • Tidy and clean children’s room - encourage them to do this too
  • Clean children’s toys regularly
  • Provide play based learning for the very young and introduce the alphabet, phonics, number, shape and colour skills etc., through songs/poems and other methods
  • Read and listen to children read daily - discuss the story and ask questions to ascertain level of understanding
  • Plan/arrange activities, such as arts and crafts, visit museums, play dates etc.
  • Oversee homework and provide support
  • Arrange doctor’s appointments
  • Prepare and cook food for the children; ensure a healthy and balanced diet - some households are fully staffed and cooking will be done by the cook, but you many need to advise and plan a healthy diet for the week ahead with them and at the parents' request

Qualifications for a Nanny

Although a formal qualification is not always necessary to become a nanny, you may find it difficult to enter the profession without it if you are a starting out in your childcare career.  Families in private households often value candidates with relevant qualifications as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and a certain level of expertise in childcare.  Below is a selection of  qualifications within the field of childcare.

  • Council for Awards in Children’s Care, and Education (CACHE)
  • National Nursery Education Board (NNEB)
  • BTEC - Business Technology and Education Council
  • National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)
  • National Association of Maternal and Child Welfare (NAMCW)
  • Associate Diploma in Childcare and Education (ADCE)
  • Degrees in Childhood Studies, Education or Early Years
  • Norland College
  • Chiltern Nursery Training College
  • Montessori Childcare and Teaching Diploma

Nanny Salary Guide

Salaries will vary tremendously on a range of factors, such as duties to be undertaken, location, qualifications and experience, as well as additional skills and knowledge a candidate can bring to the role.   A live-in nanny in the UK can earn between £350 to £600 per week, and a daily, live-out nanny in the region of £550 to £800 per week working on a full-time basis. Internationally, a nanny can earn anywhere between £800 and £1200 per week.  Occasionally, when a Head Nanny is required to manage other nannies, then a salary between £1500 and £1800 per week is paid. These roles rarely become available.

Get in Touch...

If you're in search of a Nanny, Manny, or any other skilled professionals to join your household, don't hesitate to contact us. You can send your enquiry via email, telephone, or by completing the contact form found at the bottom of our website. For applicants interested in applying, further details can be found on our Candidate Page. We look forward to hearing from you.

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