Expert Insights: Liz Hunt Principal of Norland Nannies on Being a Norland Nanny

by Michelle LaRowe
Editor in Chief

Recently I had the opportunity to connect with Liz Hunt, principal of Norland, the world’s most recognized leader in nanny training. Here’s a little of what she had to say about what makes a Norland Nanny, their training program and the role of nannies in England today.

eNannySource:  Do you think nannies are viewed similarly or differently in the US?

Liz: Norland Nannies have an international reputation for being some of the best Early Years educators in the world. This reputation is upheld in the US just like elsewhere in the world.

Norland was founded in 1892 and since then has been at the forefront of Early Years education. Students now study for an Early Years degree as well as the unique Norland Diploma in order to qualify as a Norland Nanny. This combination of academic study, practical training and hands-on experience makes the training at Norland unique and the graduates highly sought after.

eNannySource: Can a US nanny attend Norland?

Liz: Norland is currently unable to accept international students due to the highly practical structure of the course and restrictions by the UK Border Agency.

eNannySource: What trends are you seeing in regards to employer expectations?

Liz: The course at Norland has continued to evolve and develop over our 120 year history to ensure that the training is current and relevant for the expectations and dynamics of a modern family. Compared to the training in 1892, students are now taught to work in partnership with parents, being led by them in terms of approach when it comes to caring for and educating their children. Employers are now a lot more in touch with different parental approaches, and it is for them to decide which approach they feel will be right for their family. The role of a Norland Nanny is to work with and adapt their approach around the decisions of the parents and family, and this adaptability is highlighted in all elements of the Norland training.

eNannySource: You’ve got some great press in regards to your recent male graduate. Are there any more men applying to Norland?

Liz: We were delighted with the coverage and can only hope that it encourages more men to enter a career in Early Years. At present we don’t have any more male applicants.

eNannySource: Do Norland nannies wear uniforms while on duty normally?

Liz: Historically, Norland Nannies would wear a uniform whilst on duty, however the role of a nanny has become a lot more relaxed and they are now seen in most households as a member of the family rather than a member of staff. In this respect, they are rarely asked to wear a uniform whilst on duty. It is, however, sometimes requested in more formal households or for special occasions.

eNannySource: What defines a Norland nanny?

Liz: A Norland Nanny has been defined as one who has an unparalleled reputation around the world for true professionalism, love of children and a sense of humour.

eNannySource: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Liz: I’d like to share a link to our website where your readers can see more about Norland’s history http://www.norland.co.uk/about/norland_college_history, along with a link to our blog http://notjustnannytraining.blogspot.co.uk/, which looks at what students are doing at today’s Norland.

Liz Hunt is the principal of Norland College since 2009 and has over 30 years’ experience in Early Years training. She relocated from the North of England with her husband. Although she is not a Norland Nanny, her initial training instilled in her the values, philosophy and ethics of an early years practitioner. She believes very strongly that a student should experience the very best in standards of learning and teaching, professionalism and commitment from staff. To learn more about Norland, visit http://www.norland.co.uk.