Full Name: Kerry Smith
Age: 37
Location: Surrey
Profession: International Rota Nanny
Why did you decide to enter your profession?
I knew from the age of 10 that I wanted to work with children.
Did you have a background/education in childcare or teaching?
Yes, as soon as I left school I went straight to college to do my NNEB.
What were the challenges you faced at the start of your career?
None. I threw myself straight in the deep end with a sole charge 24/6 role with 2 children! Gave me a running start and I never looked back after that.
What are families in London looking for in an Elite Nanny?
Professional, discreet, 100% commitment, non-confrontational, maybe a little submissive, smiley, happy, positive, articulate, excellent English, hardworking, team player, good sense of humour, maturity and loving.
Tell us a little about your first position and what it taught you?
Everything! I was on my own day and night! A 1-year-old boy and a 9-year-old girl. It taught me that it’s very hard work but so rewarding.
What skills are unique to super nannies in London?
It’s exactly what I described for what families look for in an Elite nanny. My current family, and my last family, actually wanted someone that is a mother themselves (I have 2 teenage children) but some are also put off by this, so I have been very lucky.
Give us some insight into your favourite jobs and what made them so special?
Every position is special, even if it’s short. I don’t have a favourite job, just amazing memories. It’s always the children that make it special. My problem is I fall in love with them all.
Working for the Elite is very challenging and very rewarding. You get to see the best of the best wherever you are, beautiful private jets, super yachts, amazing palace like properties and amazing cars. One of my guilty pleasures is dressing the children and tending to their clothes. The quality of the garments is lovely, but also obscene if you see the price tag.
What has been the most challenging situation you have faced in your professional career to date and how did you overcome it?
Usually, every day is a challenge in some way (luckily I’ve never had anything major ?). You have to be one step in front from the minute they are awake until they’re back in bed. My biggest challenge is always the grandmothers! I just blind them with unbelievable kindness, and they can’t help but love me. Whereas others it’s like trying to fight a losing battle!
What’s it like to care for children of Elite London families?
It’s a privilege and I love it. I love the grandeur of it all. I feel very proud to be working at the level I have reached.
What do you most love about your job?
Everything! Especially the children obviously. I love every day. Every day is different. I love the diversity.
What are your top tips for interview techniques?
Look the part, smart/formal/conservative. Everything tidy, neat hair, no colour nails, little make up, look like a nanny, don’t try and be something that you’re not, listen to what they are looking for, have questions for them, keep quiet about previous positions unless very positive and make sure that the position is what you are really looking for.
It’s not a holiday, it’s extremely hard work! It’s also very rarely sole charge! Do not be fooled into thinking it will be, even if advertised! Unless mum is working away from the home it’s not going to happen!
What would be your advice to new candidates starting out in the profession?
Don’t listen to other people’s opinions, do what you’re happy to do, stay true to yourself, don’t be put upon, but don’t be a princess either! Put your phone away and only go on it when you have a break unless you are sending a photo to mum (if you have permission).
Why do you prefer being a super nanny over, for example, an office job?
The travel and diversity, and that you are not confined to an office! Every day is a Zoo day, a park day, an aquarium day or a museum day! The list is endless.
Lastly, what are your dreams and hopes for the future?
To keep doing what I’m doing! Amen.
If you would like to know more about finding your dream nanny job or finding an Elite nanny to work for your family then don’t hesitate to get in touch.