Converted to nannying

Ever been looked at down the nose of a nursery nurse who'd only ever worked in a nursery? Actually, nannying may be considered a more daunting career move than you think. For this reason, a 'conversion course' has been organised by the Manchester agency North West Childcare and education consultant Paul Davenport, who formerly managed the diploma in childcare and education at Princess Christian College. Mr Davenport says the one-day course aims to give nursery nurses who want to become nannies a smooth transition. 'They are leaving a predictable environment, where they are surrounded by professional colleagues, to go and work in a parent's own home,' he says. 'They have to make the fundamental shift from having decisions made for them to making their own decisions.' Topics on the course include working on your own, networking, contracts, expenses, first aid, nutrition and driving, with role playing of job interviews and advice from nannies in person. The first session takes place in Altrincham on 31 May and costs 35. If it is successful more courses will be held elsewhere. For details contact Julia Harris on 0161 904 0565.