I'm 18 and I'm struggling to find work as a nanny/junior nanny - is there anything I can do?

[nwando123]

Hi there,

I'm in a bit of a sticky situation. I've recently become estranged from my parents because of an extremely toxic home environment and now I've decided to take a few years out before I go to university, just to find my feet a bit. Now, I'm looking for work either as a mother's help/junior nanny in London. It can be live-in or live-out. I'm 18 and I'm working towards my childcare qualifications and first aid certificates but I'm really finding it tough. I think this is mostly to do with my age? I don't know what to do - I love children a lot and would perhaps like to go into teaching, but I am very passionate about this, and I have some experience working with young children over the summer, but I seem to be having no luck! I've spent hours on end on agencies and sending my CV out and one mother said I sounded 'really great' but she wanted someone older. I am really struggling a bit now and I can understand why parents would want someone older. I don't necessarily want to be an au-pair but if nothing else works out I am willing to consider it. Is there anything I'm doing wrong, or should be doing differently? Does anybody have any tips or know anyone who would be willing to help? Thank you

PS I know lots of parents want nannies who can drive - I can't for a health reason which seems to be a disadvantages. Also one agency have interviewed me but are struggling to find work because of my age.

Sorry forgot to add- I had my full driver's license too which is absolutely essential where I live as nothing is in walking distance. I can't see this being such a big deal in London due to the huge amount of transport opportunities x

Your age/lack of experience wouldn't put me off but the non driving thing would.

We employed our nanny in her first nannying job when she was 19 and she is still with us 3 years later and she is absolutely fab! I actually much prefer her to the two "more experienced/qualified" nannies we had before her as she has really adapted to the style of our family. If for any reason she left us I wouldn't hesitate to go for a younger nanny again.

Hi Nwando123

For me, the MOST important thing to me is that my children are looked after by someone who cares about them and keeps them safe. Driving isn't a big deal for me (might be for other employers though), and qualifications can always be gained. What you have is a genuine desire to work with children and that goes such a long way! Please don't be disheartened.

I really understand what it's like to have a difficult family situation. Reading between the lines I am sure that these issues have made you much more mature than your 18 years!

Once upon a time I was 18, just making my way in the world and desperate for someone to give me a break. Your post really resonated with me. It gets better, I promise! And there are people out there who will give you a chance.

Would you mind if I sent you a PM? I'm about to go back to work after 3 years home with my dds (7 and 2) and although we have our childcare sorted for the moment, we're looking into other options. I can't promise we'll be a good fit, but I'd love to talk more.

Hi op,

I wouldn't worry about the driving thing. You will find a family who don't need a driver. I do have a car but I walk to work and walk everywhere with the kids. There just isn't the need for a car. And if there is, then we hop on the bus.
Driving is expensive, lessons, buying and car and insuring it. So that is obviously out of the question. So how about working on making yourself more employable in other ways?
First aid, I would get thay sorted asap. It's done in 2 days (if you need the ofsted approved one) or you can do it in 1 day for basic skills..
I would also work on experience, could you volunteer at a local rainbows/ brownies unit ? Tell them how serious you are about it and work towards a young leadership qualification? They may even pay for you to get your first aid course (win win!) You won't be getting paid but you won't be paying anything and will be gaining experience. There you could tell mums and dads that you're looking for babysitting work (or maybe even an after school nanny job) and start networking from there. You will also have a DBS done there (it won't be ofsted approved but fine if parents don't need ofsted registered ).
I started nannying aged 19, alongside my university degree. Great extra income and opened me up to nannying. However, I had been regularly babysitting since aged 14 for babies and older children, including overnight care aged 18, I had a job in an after school club for 2 years and had been a brownies young leader for as long as I can remember! So I had lots of experience. It all comes with time though. I moved recently and had to start all over again building up babysitting networks but it honestly pays off. Volunteer, meet people, help out at a local toddler group? All these things can help you meet people. Talk to anyone and everyone and tell them that you're looking for work. Someone wi know someone who's looking.
Good luck and please pm me if you need any more help!