Hi everyone,
I'm a Norlander (please don't boo or hiss, hehe!) and it's been really interesting to read your comments.
I'd say on £500 a week, the girl you interviewed would have to be really good at what she does! The big money should come with age and experience.
Norlanders aren't better or worse or even all that different to other nannies. I think people choose Norland because of the perceived level of confidence that comes with the brand name. For example, everyone knows that an iPod is pretty reliable and often go for that brand of MP3 player above a lesser known label. There are amazing MP3 players out there without the iPod brand, but they're sometimes harder to find. I can't believe I've just compared my training to MP3 players ...
There's also the training. The common misconception is that we are sticklers for ettiquette and all that jazz. Not so. We don't try to churn out mini-Einsteins etc. In fact, the amount of homework children are set really upsets me. We just try to provide as much fun, love and magic as we can. We love painting, craft, footy in the park, PritStiks, running around fields, bedtime stories and all sorts. And we love cooking really tasty grub in funky child friendly styles and portions! Lol.
And as for the uniform, I'd personally never feel comfortable wearing on the job. 1) It highlights the fact that the family can afford a nanny and so puts the child more at risk. 2) I don't want to be a trophy nanny.
In fact, a far cry from nannying for the rich and famous, loads of the Norlanders I know end up working for children in less affluent circumstances. Generally, the Norlanders I know trained at Norland because they have a vocation, want the best for all children of all backgrounds and want the best training they can find. Money is far less important. I've also found the training to be the most enjoyable 2 years of my life. Wouldn't change a second of it!
The important thing is this: all families are different and everyone has different needs. Go with what you feel comfortable with. You will find wonderful nannies in every salary bracket. Go with your instincts, with what feels right for you and your family.
Good luck and I truly hope you find a fabulous nanny!
Hugs,
M
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