The difference between a nanny and governess.
Are you interested in hiring a Nanny or Governess to take care of your child or children? Unsure of the distinctions between the two? No need to worry. This is a common query in the childcare industry, and some families nowadays seek a candidate who can fulfil both roles. However, the two positions have distinct differences in their responsibilities, the age groups they cater to, and the outcomes they achieve. In this article, we provide a brief overview of the variance between a Nanny and a Governess, so that you can make a more informed decision about which role would best benefit your child or children, as well as your family as a whole. For additional information, you can click on the provided links. Nanny Governess
While a Nanny and a Governess both have the best interests of your child in mind, their duties, purpose, and expected outcomes differ to some extent. Nevertheless, regardless of your preference, both will ensure that your child or children are secure, in good health, content, and well-looked after, both inside and outside of the household.
Is a 'Manny' and 'Governor' the same? They are the male equivalent of a 'Nanny' and 'Governess' who perform the same duties in their respective roles and nowadays, preferred by families where the children are all boys.
Nanny versus governess?
A Nanny's primary responsibility is to create a safe and nurturing environment for the children in their care, while also taking care of their nursery duties. They may also handle light housekeeping tasks specifically related to the children. On the other hand, a Governess has a more specific role focused on the academic and personal growth of the children. They serve as both an educator and mentor, without any involvement in domestic duties or the care of infants or young children. Governesses typically work with school-aged children, usually starting from around 5 years old.
Why is a nanny best for my child?
Nannies provide comprehensive care for children of all ages, taking on the roles typically fulfilled by parents. They attend to the child's physical, social, and emotional needs, fostering a nurturing and joyful home environment that supports their growth and development. Nannies also play a crucial role in establishing boundaries and teaching good behavior, manners, and respect, similar to a Governess.
What duties does a nanny perform?
The duties of a Nanny can vary depending on the specific needs of the family and whether there are other household staff members. However, some common responsibilities include ensuring the safety and well-being of the children, serving as a positive role model, getting the children ready for the day, taking them to and from school, and performing light housekeeping tasks.
In addition to these duties, a Nanny may also be responsible for organising activities and playdates, assisting with homework, coordinating appointments and meetings with professionals, preparing meals for the children, administering medication with parental permission, providing first aid, and keeping the parents informed about the children's activities and progress.
It is important to note that the specific tasks performed by a Nanny can vary depending on the age of the children and the preferences of the parents. The Nanny may also collaborate with other caregivers or professionals to ensure the well-being and development of the children. Regular communication with the parents is essential to provide updates and address any concerns or requests they may have.
Is a nanny qualification essential?
Parents have the ultimate decision-making authority when it comes to choosing a childcarer for their children. Qualified Nannies, holding qualifications such as NNEB and NVQ, offer parents the assurance that they possess the necessary pedagogical skills to provide quality care in the parents' absence. Conversely, experienced Nannies without formal qualifications bring valuable expertise gained from years of industry experience, with some being mothers themselves. It is imperative for all Nannies and childcare staff to hold a Paediatric First Aid certificate and undergo a clear Enhanced DBS check before starting employment.
What are the benefits of hiring a governess?
When it comes to your child's education, a governess can make a significant impact. With their degree education, they are equipped to support your child's academic progress, boost their confidence, and challenge them intellectually. Additionally, governesses can assist in preparing children for exams and Common Entrance Tests, ensuring they have the best opportunities for prestigious independent schools. For families who travel frequently or value etiquette and proper behaviour, hiring a governess can be especially beneficial.
What are the responsibilities of a governess?
The responsibilities of a Governess can vary greatly depending on the specific needs and preferences of each family. However, a typical Governess is responsible for teaching a wide range of subjects including English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Physical Education, and the Arts. They may also teach languages and musical instruments, either personally or by hiring specialised tutors.
In addition to teaching, a Governess provides support with homework and offers extra lessons to further enhance the child's learning. They ensure that there are ample resources available for lessons, such as books, arts and crafts materials, and games. The Governess also maintains communication with the child's school teachers and any specialist tutors who teach within the home.
A Governess goes beyond traditional classroom teaching by organising visits to museums and art galleries to broaden the child's understanding of the world. They also accompany and participate in various sporting and extracurricular activities as required. Regular communication with parents regarding the child's progress, behaviour, and overall well-being is an important aspect of the Governess's role. Additionally, they may travel with the family and incorporate different locations into the learning process. Lastly, a Governess teaches good manners, instills behaviour and social etiquette skills, and serves as an exemplary role model for the child. Ensuring the child's safety, health, happiness, and overall well-being is always a top priority.
Governess qualifications
Governesses do not possess formal qualifications, but they are expected to have a strong academic background. Most commonly, a Governess would have a Bachelor's or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in any subject area, or even higher qualifications such as a Master's or PhD. Additionally, many Governesses have also qualified as teachers, holding certifications like PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) or B.Ed (Bachelor of Education). These qualifications are highly valued by families seeking a Governess, as they indicate expertise in educational areas: Early Years, Primary or Secondary.
One of the reasons why Governesses with formal (teaching) qualifications are highly sought after is their familiarity with school systems and curriculum. They have experience in lesson planning, delivering lessons, and assessing students' progress. Moreover, they are skilled in maintaining accurate records of a child's work and development. This knowledge and expertise make them well-equipped to provide educational support to children.
However, it is worth noting that some Governesses may enter the profession after working as Nannies for many years. In such cases, they may hold nationally recognised childcare qualifications like NNEB (National Nursery Examination Board) or NVQ (National Vocational Qualification). While these qualifications may not be as academically focused as a degree or teaching certification, they bring a wealth of knowledge, skills and prior experience and importantly, their dedication and commitment to working with children.
Looking to employ a Nanny or Governess?
At Bel-Rose International, we believe that each child deserves personalised attention and care. By taking the time to comprehensively understand your family's dynamics and your child's unique qualities, we are better equipped to make the right candidate selection. Our vast industry experience has honed our ability to find the perfect Nanny or Governess who will not only provide excellent care and educational support but will also establish a strong connection with your child. We firmly believe that a harmonious relationship between the child and the Nanny or Governess plays a crucial role in shaping the child's future. By providing highly qualified professionals, including bilingual candidates, we strive to ensure that all your child's needs and preferences are met.
Connect with us today to schedule a private and confidential consultation, where we can discuss how our services can be of assistance to you in finding the perfect Nanny or Governess for your child. We also provide placements for Qualified Teachers and degree-educated Tutors, along with other professional and domestic household staff.
