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Original poster

Would you be more likely to employ a nanny with qualifications OR experience?

29 replies

taintedsnow · 27/12/2010 12:34

A friend of mine has a lot of experience caring for babies and children, but has never obtained formal qualifications. She has a university education in another area though.

She wants to advertise for work as a nanny again (she has been working in another field for a while) as she adores children, but is worried she would not be considered by families as she has not obtained specific qualifications.

I feel that if a family would look at the fact that she has great references and experience and consider her regardless of the lack of formal qualifications, if she would pass a CRB check (which she would).

So if you were looking for a nanny, would you consider someone like my friend? I don't want to get her hopes up by telling her I definitely think she should advertise if there is no point.

TIA.

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blueshoes · 27/12/2010 12:47

It is not just the exam paper per se, but taking qualifications shows a commitment to nannying and adds a certain intellectual rigour to her role.

I don't doubt there will be employers who would value references and experience very highly (I do), but your friend will have to explain away her lack of qualifications and possibly get a lower rate.

If your friend could say she was working towards qualifications, that would be very helpful.

Original poster
taintedsnow · 27/12/2010 12:42

Thanks for responses.

blueshoes, she could get qualifications, and I believe she is making inroads into doing so, but she has to work in the meantime you know? But you're right, it would be better for her.

coldtits (is that you, colditz, in a Winter disguise?!), that's what I'm thinking, both would be better, but for the right person, you would want to know they could handle your children more than you'd want to know how they can handle exam papers.

OP posts:
coldtits · 27/12/2010 12:39

I'd have experience and references over qualifications any day, but I'd prefer both.

blueshoes · 27/12/2010 12:37

Why can't your friend get qualifications? It would perfect her CV.

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