Former South Devon College student gets dream job as Norland Nanny

Ever since she was a child former South Devon College student Charlotte Smith has wanted to be a Norland Nanny.

“I was 10 years old when my granny sent me a newspaper article about a Norland Nanny and it sparked my interest. I’ve always had a passion to work in early years but the idea of becoming a Norland Nanny was something else.”

From that day on Charlotte was set on becoming a nanny and went to her first open day at Norland aged 15. 

Charlotte pursued her dream by enrolling on the early years course at South Devon College and, in her words, “loved every minute”. 

“I loved coming into college – lectures were engaging, and I gained a great relationship with my teachers and peers. I liked how varied classes were, giving us the independence to go off and study individually or with friends.” 

She found the placement aspect of the course very useful and a great way to get hands-on experience in a nursery or school environment.  

“I did one of my placements at a primary school in the nursery and reception classes. I gained some great knowledge working alongside staff and planning activities for the children.”

Following her completion of Level 3, Charlotte chose to gain further practical experience before applying to Norland.

“I worked in Italy for two months teaching a family how to speak English whilst also caring for the children. I also worked for families across Torbay needing childcare.” 

Charlotte then studied further with Norland College in Bath to gain more experience and qualifications.

“The Norland course provides you with an Early Childhood Education and Care BA (Hons) degree and a Norland Diploma. 

“Studying at Norland was such an amazing experience. One day you’re in a lecture learning about how to start up your own nursery and next you’re sewing a child’s apron! 

Charlotte isn’t the only former South Devon College student who has always wanted to be a Norland Nanny.

Daisy Gray has secured a place at Norland after completing her T Level in Education and Early Years at South Devon College.  

Daisy first joined the College for her GCSEs when she was introduced to the childcare subject.

“I loved it so much and after completing my GCSEs, I chose to do a Childcare T level which gave me a mix of both practical and theoretical experience. I enjoyed the small class sizes and how helpful and supportive the tutors were – it created a very calm and nurturing environment.  

“I chose the T level because I knew I would enjoy the combination of practical and theory, so I could put what I learned in college into practice in my industry placement at a local primary school, whilst developing new skills.  

Daisy has taken a year out to work in a childcare setting before joining Norland College.

Meanwhile Charlotte is now a fully qualified Norland Nanny and working for a family in London. Her advice to anyone thinking of applying to study childcare at South Devon College is go for it.

“It was nice to be treated like an adult after leaving school and I felt valued by my lecturers who were very supportive.

 “I felt that the early years course was the best way to reflect my passion and experience, and a great start to my career.”