2009 saw the launch of the Adelaide branch of the nanny webb, a bespoke child care placement service. Already established in Sydney (by ex-Adelaidean Yurana Webb), the nanny webb offers long term and temporary nannies, as well as babysitting services.
I caught up with Holly Auld, Manager of the nanny webb's Adelaide branch, to discuss the agency and the joys of nannying!
How did The Nanny Webb start? Why was it launched?
The nanny webb started in Sydney four years ago by Yurana Webb. Yurana had worked as a nanny for quite some years and saw a niche for a personalised, boutique nanny placement agency. After returning from working as a nanny in London, I approached Yurana about starting a branch of the nanny webb in Adelaide. This was a life-long dream of mine. She thankfully agreed, and the Adelaide branch was developed.
What services do you offer?
We are a placement agency and therefore provide nannies and babysitters for families. We provide quality nannies who all have their First Aid Certificate, DECS or Police Clearance, current references and an adequate amount of experience. I interview the nannies, check their references and meet with them on a regular basis at nanny team building sessions to discuss their progress.
What do you think separates you from other nanny agencies?
Definitely our personal service and high calibre of nannies. I personally meet with the families, assess their needs and discuss the desired qualities that they are seeking in a nanny. This is all noted on their file and regularly updated as the child/children develop and grow older.
How did you get involved in nannying?
From a very young age I always had a child on my hip, whether it was one of my younger brothers, a family friend or a neighbour in need. I started babysitting for family friends when I was about 13 and have never stopped! I had a great opportunity four years ago when I was employed by Darcey Bussell [former prima ballerina with The Royal Ballet in the UK] to nanny her children in London. Initially it was a 12 month assignment, but I ended up staying for three years! This is where I learnt the most about being a nanny, as there is such an established and successful nanny network over there.
How can potential clients contact The Nanny Webb?
The best way is to check out our fantastic website. This provides both mine and Yurana's contact details, and gives you a lovely insight into the ethos and business of the nanny webb.
Once a family contacts the nanny webb, it receives a Parent's Information Pack which highlights certain things that are required from an employee of a nanny. It also inculdes insurance information, suggested questions to ask when interviewing a nanny, and an example letter of employment.
What should parents look for when hiring a suitable nanny for their children?
I am a strong believer that it is very important for a family to be matched with the nanny right for their needs. Families and nannies have different expectations, beliefs and morals, and these need to be discussed and confirmed at the initial interview stage to enable a consistent, loving and caring environment for the children at all times.
After speaking with many mothers over the years, their most treasured nannies have been those that love and treat their children like their own and, in turn, become an important member of the family.
What do you enjoy most about working with children?
Everything! Children are so rewarding and give so much joy and love. The one-on-one care that is provided by a nanny is like no other. Children are able to form a very close relationship with their nannies, while still respecting their authority.
I am fascinated by children's developmental stages, diet, sleep routines (or lack of), attachment and learning through play, and I regularly attend information sessions and training sessions on these topics.
I never wake up in the morning and think, "I really do not want to go to work today". I think I have the best job in the world - who wouldn't want to play in a park, build sandcastles or make a space ship out of a garbage bag and playdough!
The nanny webb is currently offering a special Christmas gift package, providing 3 hours of night-time babysitting (including placement fee), and a hand-made Christmas decoration from All The King's Horses (includes postage and handling) for $65. Email Holly for enquiries and to place your order.
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