Demand For Nannies Prompts Increase In Training Programmes

18 February 2014

Demand For Nannies Prompts PORSE to Increase Training Programmes

A nationwide demand for nannies has prompted New Zealand’s leading in-home childcare provider to increase its nanny intern training programmes.

PORSE has expanded its nanny intern programme and is starting a new course in Tauranga in a few weeks.

PORSE Education & Training general manager Erin Maloney says they already run courses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Hawke’s Bay and have welcomed the opportunity to move into Tauranga.

“The traditional nanny role is still very popular in New Zealand homes and is particularly prominent in the main cities. We are pleased to now be able to offer Tauranga youth an exciting career opportunity.”

The in-home childcare provider has also increased the number of its tutors to meet demand for it's nanny intern course in Auckland.

“Families enjoy the flexibility of having a nanny at home, and find that it is an affordable option especially when they have more than one child. Parents are choosing in-home childcare because their children form secure attachment relationships with their nannies in a settled home environment where natural play and learning can occur,” said Mrs Maloney.

Nearly 60 percent of PORSE’s families in the Grey Lynn Auckland area choose to have a nanny (who comes to the family’s home) instead of an educator (who cares for children in their own home).

Auckland parents, Miranda and Michael Lang have had a nanny for the last six years, caring for their three children Henry (7), Alice (4), Benjamin (22 months) and say they love the flexibility that a nanny provides.

“I prefer using a nanny because my children can grow and develop in their home environment. They can have a nap in their own cot and do things with the nanny that they would usually do with me. When they’re sick, neither my husband or I have to take a day off work.

“I also find it easier in the mornings with a nanny. Not having to get little kids fed and out the door by 8am makes life much easier, particularly once there are two or more children,” said Mrs Lang.

She also says a nanny is more cost effective now that she has three children.

“I think it is very cost effective, particularly when you factor in non-monetary benefits like not having to take days off to care for sick children who can’t be taken to daycare.”

Mrs Maloney says the demand for nannies in the Auckland has increased the popularity of their nanny intern training programmes because graduates can feel confident that there are job prospects after they graduate.

“It provides an attractive career path for 17 to 25 year olds and it’s also affordable for families who can enjoy the benefit of a nanny for 20 hours a week.”

“Families only have to pay an hourly training rate of up to $5 rather than $14 to $25 for a fully qualified nanny. If they do want a nanny living in, they can choose to provide room and board in return for the additional hours of work.”

Over the 20 week course the interns work through the National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 3). On top of the 20 hours practical experience, they spend a day a week in the classroom, including lessons in early brain development, attachment theory, care routines, right through to hearing from the Plunket Nurse.

Auckland Nanny, Rebecca Wilson completed PORSE’s first Auckland nanny intern programme in July last year and easily found a job when she graduated.

“I have always wanted to work with children. I gained a lot of confidence through the programme and the hands on experience gave me the tools I needed to enter the workforce. It was great to be able to find employment so quickly.”

The twenty year old works for the Evans family on Auckland’s North Shore caring for Paige Evans, 8, Keira Evans, 4, and Cade Evans, 14 months.

Miss Wilson says she was impressed by PORSE’s commitment to helping her find a job after she graduated.

“I’ve had the same family since I graduated and I adore working for them and being a part of their family. I think children should have someone they can bond with and form a strong relationship with.”

“The PORSE nanny intern programme has given me a good qualification which I can now use both in New Zealand and overseas.”

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