When you think of royal nannies, images of polished uniforms, impeccable manners, and world-class training might come to mind. But beneath the poise and polish lies something more meaningful: a deep commitment to excellence in childcare. Whether you’re working with a formal, high-profile family or working in a modest household, there’s much every nanny can learn from royal nannies.

Institutions like the prestigious Norland College in the UK, renowned for training royal and elite nannies, instill a sense of professionalism, discretion, and a child-first philosophy that goes far beyond the basics. Here’s what you can take from their training and apply to your own nanny career.

1) Professionalism Is Non-Negotiable

Royal nannies are expected to be reliable, discreet, punctual, and highly professional at all times. Their demeanor reflects the families they represent, and the same can be true for you.

Even if your role doesn’t involve palace gates or global press, adopting a royal-level standard of professionalism in every interaction can elevate your work and leave a lasting impression. This includes:

• Dressing appropriately for the role
• Communicating clearly and respectfully with your employers
• Being on time and organized
• Maintaining healthy boundaries while still forming strong bonds with children

2) Child-Centered Care Is Key

At the heart of Norland training and the royal nanny approach is the belief that the child’s well-being is always the top priority. This includes supporting emotional development, fostering independence, and tailoring your care to each child’s unique temperament and needs.

As a professional nanny, this means:

• Observing and learning how each child learns, processes emotions, and responds to routine
• Encouraging open-ended play and exploration
• Modeling calm, respectful behavior in all situations

This high standard of child-first care is something every family, royal or not, deeply values.

3) Discretion Builds Trust

Perhaps one of the most well-known rules for royal nannies is this: never gossip. Maintaining privacy and discretion is a fundamental part of the job. Families trust you not just with their children, but with their personal lives. Whether you’re dealing with celebrity clients or private families, being discreet is essential for your reputation and long-term career success.

Avoid sharing details about your role, your employer, or your nanny kids on social media. Always obtain permission before posting anything work-related, and when in doubt, keep it private.

4) Training and Education Matter

Royal nannies are extensively trained, not only in first aid and childcare basics, but also in nutrition, early childhood development, security awareness, and more. While you may not be enrolled at Norland, continuing education is something every nanny should prioritize.

Consider:

• Attending childcare development workshops
• Getting CPR/first aid certified (and keeping it up-to-date)
• Learning about different childcare philosophies like Montessori, Waldorf, or Reggio Emilia

Not only does this show families that you’re invested in your craft, but it gives you tools to provide better, more informed care.

5) Composure and Grace Go a Long Way

One of the most underrated skills we can learn from royal nannies is the ability to stay calm and composed, especially during high-stress or unpredictable situations. Whether you’re managing a toddler meltdown or navigating a miscommunication with your nanny family, grace under pressure makes all the difference.

Modeling calm behavior helps children self-regulate, and it makes you a trusted, dependable presence in the household.

You don’t need a Norland uniform to be a world-class nanny. But the principles that royal nannies live by, professionalism, discretion, child-first care, ongoing education, and calm leadership, can benefit every nanny at every level. By adopting some of these practices into your daily work, you’re not just providing care, you’re building a long-lasting career rooted in trust, excellence, and heart.

Looking to bring royal-level standards into your next role? Westside Nannies works with the most dedicated and professional caregivers in the field. Let us help you find a placement where your skills and values will shine.