A Guide to 7 Different Types of Nanny Jobs

Narrowing down all the different types of Nanny jobs can be tough. So we have taken the guess work out for you and researched 7 different types of Nannying to give you a comparison guide on what type of Nanny you might like to become.

Below are job descriptions for each of the different types of roles that you can consider transitioning into.

Not sure where to start on getting a job? Check out our post on How to get a Job as a Nanny

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Live in Nanny

A live-in nanny is a dedicated caregiver who resides within a family home to provide childcare on site. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and development of the child in their care, handling tasks such as preparing meals, assisting with homework, and organising daily routines.

As a live-in nanny you may be asked to help with some household tasks related to the children, including cooking and light cleaning duties. The advantage of becoming a live-in nanny is that the stress of rent and having to find suitable accommodation nearby to your job is taken care of. It comes with the negative of compromising privacy and finding it challenging to switch off from the working environment due to the constant presence within the household, however with the help of the right family this can be a very rewarding position.

Important to note: A live-in nanny should not be confused with an Au Pair as a live in nanny is a trained and knowledgeable individual who’s pay and responsibilities should also reflect this. Look out for a future post exploring the differences between Au Pair’s and Nanny’s!

Wage: £400 + per week & meals and accommodation

Live Out Nanny

A live-out nanny is, similar to a live-in nanny, there to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for the children in care. Live-out nanny’s are responsible for coordinating the daily routines for the children in collaboration with their family.

You are there to provide high-quality supervision and care within the household, ensuring the safety, well-being, and development of the children. As a live-out nanny you will assist with activities by coordinating routines and preparing nutritious meals.

An advantage of being a live-out nanny is the ability to finish at set times (which are negotiated with the family), allowing you to have personal space at the end of your day. However, you will need to have your own accommodation which means you could face longer commute times and the possibility of having to work late depending on the family’s needs.

Wage: £500 + per week depending on experience & qualifications

Rota Nanny

A rota nanny set up is similar to that of a live-in nanny where during their working weeks they reside in with the families. As a rota nanny you are required 24/7 during your time on and then you are in rotation with another nanny who works over your time off. There are a lot of high profile VIP families who require round the clock care for their children which makes a rota nanny perfect to fulfil their needs.

The downside of being a rota nanny is that during your working days you are on duty 24/7 so do not have your own free time. It may also be hard to find a permanent living situation that works with your rota or you may have to pay rent even when you are working.

The advantage of being a rota nanny is that you have set working weeks and have large chunks of time off in-between, this allows for you to enjoy holidays in between or have other careers or hobbies that you can enjoy. It is also great as you’re also working with a team of other nanny which can sometimes make a job as a nanny very lonely.

Wage: £3000 + per month depending on experience

Emergency/ Ad Hoc Nanny

Ad hoc nannying refers to a nanny service that is only required based on the parents terms. Ad hoc nannies can also be hired for special events like weddings or hotels to provide care when people are visiting.

Emergency nannies are used when regular arrangements have fallen through or when a full-time nanny is unavailable due to illness or other reasons. As an emergency nanny you can be booked with short notice and are generally flexible in terms of hours and location. However you usually require a minimum hour booking.

The disadvantageous part of being an Emergency/ Ad Hoc Nanny is that you don’t have set hours during your week and will be required to work in some situations at the last minute. Equally, you do not have income security week on week, which, for some, can be financially challenging. However some people find this type of work great as you can choose when and who you work for as well as set your own base rate for families, which is great if you prefer a more flexible lifestyle.

There are specific agencies that will be able to put you in contact with families looking for Emergency/Ad hoc Nannies or Babysitting Apps such as Bubble.

Wage: £16 to £20+ per hour

Norland Nanny

To become a Norland Nanny you will need to undertake a comprehensive three-year course, which is a BA in Early Years Development and Learning. As of 2024/25, the course fee for UK students is £16,858 per year. Norland Nanny training is specialised training for nannies, teaching skills such as: defensive driving and paparazzi management as well as preparing candidates to handle a wide range of situations with expertise and confidence.

A role as a Norland Nanny is highly esteemed and considered prestigious within the childcare industry. Norland Nannies are recognized by their distinctive and traditional uniform which is optional for families to have their nannies to wear.

Becoming a Norland Nanny allows you to work with some high profile and VIP families which can come with great responsibility and sometimes a lot of pressure, however their training will allow you to perform at your best under any circumstances.

Wage: £1000 + per week depending on experience

Holiday Nanny

Becoming a holiday nanny offers the unique opportunity to either accompany a family on their vacation in your city or join them in their chosen destination.

As a holiday nanny you will need all skills and it will come with the responsibilities of being a live-in nanny however it offers much more flexibility and freedom as these jobs will only be short amounts of time. Families often seek nannies with specific skills, such as being a confident swimmer or having the ability to ski and teach children on the slopes.

It’s important to note that the family is responsible for covering all travel, accommodation, and meal expenses for the nanny.

Being a Holiday Nanny is an enticing option for those who enjoy traveling and working with families in different settings. This work can be very seasonal however it will give you a great amount of flexibility and freedom in-between jobs.

Wage: £15 to £20+ per hour + over night fees and travel & accomodation provided

Maternity Nurse

Wage: £20 – £25 gross per hour