When to give notice?

[waysandmeans]

Looking for some advice from other nannies, childminders or parents.

I've been working as a nanny on a share basis for 6 months but am planning to return to university within the next year. The course I'm applying to is very competitive and the application has several stages. I'm trying to decide at which point I should let my families know I could be leaving. I only need to give one months notice but I feel it'd be decent/honest to let them know earlier. On the other hand, could cause unnecessary upset if I don't get in.

Should I let them know once my application is in next week? Wait until I am (hopefully) invited to interview and have to take time off. Or do I wait until I have accepted a place, which then will be close to required notice period anyway.

I did plan to stay longer but although I love the kids I don't get close to enough hours and know it's not what I want to do long term.

Any thoughts welcomed.

I think it depends on how happy you are in the job and when the course starts. Also when you took on this job/went for interview was it intending to be long term on your part and both sets of parents?

If you tell them now you risk them finding another nanny sooner than anticipated and you could be out of a job earlier than expected. Also if you don't get on to the course and you've already told them - they might be wary of your reliability and again could look for someone else or the relationship may not be the same.
Personally, I would wait until everything is confirmed with the university but at the end of the day you have to really think about what is best for you going forward. No Childcare job is forever.

Perhaps you could register with some agencies for temp work just incase or look for work that relates to your university course.
Good luck

I would wait until you have been offered a place. I'm sure if the boot was on the other foot they would do the same.

I wouldn't expect to be told earlier, maybe 6 weeks if you're being really generous, but its quite normal for people to move jobs or go back to studying.
I think they'll be really pleased for you.

I wouldn't say until you have been offered a place. As a nanny employer, you telling me you might be leaving in the next 6 months doesn't really help me. I would probably panic, not know what to do and then start looking for someone else straight away. And then if someone is available, I'd give notice to you.

So basically, look after yourself, same as with any other job. Your employers can't do anything with the information you give them as nothing is definite other than worry and look for a replacement. Good luck!