The Role & Expectations
The work is caring for children day to day - feeding, playing, taking them to activities, helping them learn and keeping them safe and happy - and often light related housework. Patience, energy, reliability and warmth matter, along with good judgement, since you are trusted with children's safety and wellbeing, sometimes alone for long days.
Hours are often long and full-time, sometimes live-in, and the work is emotionally and physically demanding, with pay that varies a lot by area and experience. It is a close, trusting relationship with a family, which can be hugely rewarding but also demands professionalism and clear boundaries.
You do not legally need qualifications, but a childcare course, paediatric first aid and references are highly valued by families. An enhanced DBS check is standard and expected, and registering with a regulator can be required for some arrangements.
Daily Responsibilities
- Care for and supervise children
- Prepare meals and snacks
- Play and do activities that help them learn
- Take children to school, clubs and outings
- Keep to routines and bedtimes
- Do child-related tidying and washing
- Keep children safe and report any concerns