Interview questions for after school nanny and how to make it a success?

[orangeplum]

I am in the process of looking for an after school nanny and will be interviewing some people shortly. Can anyone give me some suggestions of questions I should be asking.

Also what are the guidelines for holidays for after school nannies? Do most people do you choose half of holidays/nanny chooses half etc.

Any other suggestions of things to be aware of to make it a success would be very helpful.

Thanks!:)

Have you employed a nanny before, so you are wondering what different things you should ask an after-school person? Or are you asking about nanny questions generally (where children are school-age)?

As far as my experience goes, holiday convention is just the same for after-school nannies as for 'ordinary' nannies, as in half choices as you say. The only gloss is that there is a general understanding that nanny's holidays will avoid term time as much as possible - so our after-school nanny's term time holidays tend to be long weekends only (while she takes her proper long breaks in school holiday time). But we haven't had to lay down any laws about that, she understands automatically.

Most people can't afford to live just on part day wages. I would ask why they are looking for a part-day position - is it other work commitment (which would be useful for you to know to plan full day cover during school holidays), study, or are they just desperate for work, and will leave after 3 weeks when they find a full time position?

Can they work during school hols or are you not bothered about that? Bear in mind that they may well get a morning job and not be available for full day work, in which case you'll need a back up plan.

Working out holiday entitlement is pretty complicated but you can get help from the usual government sites.

I stated at the interview and in the contract that nanny can't take holidays during term time (unless of course in emergency). I don't think you can expect all nannies to understand that automatically so I would make sure that's clear. You should also ask if any term time holidays have been arranged already. You don't want them to spring that on you as soon as they start.

Thanks for these tips - it is really helpful and I do need help in the holidays so I will definitely discuss these points.

Ask about first aid knowledge and attitude to giving pain killers. ( I wanted my nanny to give kids Calpol if they were unwell but learnt later she didn't agree with it!)

Also, make friendly enquiries about personal life ( to check out there isn't a nightmare husband or partner), and follow up references with a phone call even if the references you have are very good. ( I wish I had!)

Ask about first aid knowledge and attitude to giving pain killers. ( I wanted my nanny to give kids Calpol if they were unwell but learnt later she didn't agree with it!)

Also, make friendly enquiries about personal life ( to check out there isn't a nightmare husband or partner), and follow up references with a phone call even if the references you have are very good. ( I wish I had!)