December 11, 2025 admin
Becoming a nanny is one of the most rewarding ways to work with children. It offers freedom, the chance to build strong bonds with a family, and often pays better than nursery work. But there is one question we hear constantly: “Do I need qualifications to be a nanny in the UK?” The answer is not a simple yes or no. While it is not illegal to work without them, having the right childcare qualifications for nannies is the difference between being a casual babysitter and a professional career nanny.
In this guide, we will explore exactly what training you need, how to join the Ofsted Voluntary Register, and how to prove to parents that you are the best person to care for children.
Do You Legally Need Qualifications to be a Nanny?
Unlike working in a nursery or school, nannying is largely unregulated in the UK. Technically, you do not need a specific qualification to work as a private nanny. However, without one, you may find it difficult to find a high-paying family or a live-in nanny role. Nanny vs. Childminder: What is the difference? It is vital not to confuse the nanny route with becoming a childminder.
-
Nannies work in the child’s home. You are employed by the parents.
-
Childminders work in their own home. They are self-employed and must register with Ofsted by law.
While nannies do not have the same strict legal requirements, many choose to register voluntarily. This is where qualifications become essential.
The Best Qualification: Level 3 Award in Home Based Childcare
If you want to be a professional nanny, the “Gold Standard” qualification is the Level 3 Award in Home Based Childcare. This course is designed specifically for nannies and childminders. It is an Focus Awards accredited qualification, which means it is recognised by families and agencies across the UK. This online course covers everything you need to know to look after children professionally, including:
-
Safeguarding and child protection.
-
Child development and learning through play.
-
Working with families and understanding professional boundaries.
Most importantly, this Level 3 Award covers the “Common Core Skills and Knowledge” required by Ofsted. If you want to join the register (more on that below), this is the childcare training you need.
Registering with Ofsted (The Voluntary Register)
If nannies don’t have to register, why do so many choose to? The answer is money—for the parents. If you register with Ofsted on the Voluntary Childcare Register, the parents who employ you can use Tax-Free Childcare or Childcare Vouchers to pay part of your salary. This can save them thousands of pounds a year.
Because of this, many families will only hire registered nannies.
How to Register as a Nanny To join the Ofsted Voluntary Register, you must meet four main criteria:
-
Training: You must have completed training in the “Common Core Skills” (such as the Level 3 Award in Home Based Childcare).
-
First Aid: You must hold a valid Paediatric First Aid certificate.
-
Insurance: You must have Public Liability insurance (organisations like Morton Michel or PACEY offer this).
-
DBS: You need an enhanced DBS check.
Other Essential Skills and Training
Aside from your main childcare qualification, there are other certificates that will make your CV stand out to a potential employer.
Paediatric First Aid
This is non-negotiable. Whether you register or not, parents need to know their children are safe. You need a full 12-hour Paediatric First Aid qualification that is suitable for the early years.
Food Safety
Nannies often prepare meals for the children in their care. A basic Food Hygiene certificate shows that you understand how to store and cook food safely, protecting the welfare of children.
Safeguarding
Understanding how to spot the signs of abuse or neglect is vital. While this is covered in the Level 3 Award, taking a refresher CPD course shows you take your roles and responsibilities seriously.
Career Progression for Nannies
Nannying is a genuine career path with plenty of room for growth. By gaining skills and knowledge, you can command a higher salary. You might start as a junior daily nanny. With experience and a cache level 3 qualification, you could move into:
-
Live-in Nanny: Where accommodation is provided.
-
Maternity Nurse: Specialising in newborn care.
-
Nursery Management: Using your experience to move into an early years setting.
While other providers like Open Study College offer general courses, Cambridge Open College specialises in providing the specific tutor support you need to succeed in the home-based sector.
Conclusion
If you love working with children, nannying is a fantastic choice. But to be taken seriously as a professional childcare provider, you need the right paperwork. Getting qualified doesn’t just help you learn; it opens doors. It allows you to join the Ofsted register, helps parents save money, and proves you are a trusted expert. Don’t just be a babysitter. Be a professional. Enrol on our Level 3 Award in Home Based Childcare today and take the first step towards your new career.