When to start looking for an after school nanny for September?

[Coveredinweetabix]

I need to find an after school nanny for 3 days a week when DD starts school in September. Ideally, it would be someone who can do before school too but, if that isn't possible, then I can work around that. I have just rung a couple of agencies both of which said that they would call me back in July and start advertising the position then. Is that about right? I worry that that only leaves 8 weeks in which to interview, get contracts signed, introduce her to the DC etc. I'm worried that not many people may be looking for this sort of position and that that is going to be too small a window. It is pretty crucial that I find someone as the school doesn't offer any wraparound care & the one cm who picks up from the school is full.
Thanks

I think I would want the process to start earlier than that if I was looking.

Lots of people (agency staff as well as potential recuits, and possibly you too) will be on holiday over July and August. If you employ a nanny who is currently working, the chances are that they will have (at least) one month's notice to serve after the contract with you is signed.

As you say, considering CVs, setting up interviews, conducting those interviews, shortlisting, introducing the potential nanny/nannies to the DC, finalising contract etc takes time, and you have a deadline.

One thing that I would suggest to you though, if it is a possibility for you, is that you or your DH considers doing the school run for the first week or two of your DD going to school. It is all unfamiliar to them, and for me, I think that my DS settled so quickly at his school when he first started as I was fortunately able to take him and collect him for a while. If it is a possibility for you, it could help her to settle into the new routine and surroundings.

I would start now, it is nice for you and for the nanny to have things finalised before August.

If agencies are not interested in starting now, could you do it yourself using local advertising venues (the school may even let you advertise there) and on the web? Your ideal candidate is going to be someone very local, so whilst an agency may find someone, you may find someone through knowing where locals may look for job ads.

I'm currently looking for a before/after school nanny job starting in September, and I'm being sent on interviews by agencies now. Agree with others about starting the search earlier rather than later.

So I'm right to be surprised from the sounds of it. I will try some other agencies and put an advert up in the post office.