What is the difference between a Governess, Nanny and Tutor?

Before diving into jobs in the childcare industry, it is incredibly vital that you understand the differences in the job description of different positions, such as the roles and responsibilities when in a governor, tutor, nanny job or governess job.

Sometimes the descriptions or requirements between the three jobs can become blurred. Nannies, governesses, and tutors are all tasked with developing the children’s skills and teaching them new things—however, each job type focus on different aspects of childcare. 

Working as a Governess

The governess is an old word that originated in Europe before World War 1. Families living in the countryside were far from suitable schools, so they often hired a governess. 

The trend is still popular among wealthy families as it gives them personal security and the flexibility to work and travel and live in multiple places. Additionally, hiring a governess means they can also ensure a tailored education for their children. 

In short, a governess is a person who is employed to educate and care for children in a private household. They are responsible for teaching school-age children ion various subjects according to a curriculum. This job requires no domestic duties. 

The governor or governess would plan her day based on typical school days and usually stay with a family for approximately two to five years. It is the most expensive childcare job option available because of the required qualification and significant experience needed. Families usually require at least five years of experience with professional childcare and teaching background. 


Working as a Tutor

Tutors are qualified people who are tasked with enhancing your children’s education. Their primary responsibility is to assist with homework and other school-related projects, exams, or tests. 

They may also be qualified teachers employed to help slow learners to keep up as well. Families that often travel typically hire tutors on an hourly basis. Tutors are not required to fetch the children from school, discipline them, or provide care of the children.  

Tutors come into their employers’ house for a specific amount of time, often one to four hours a week. They will focus on directed study goals that have been previously assessed. Typically, tutors specialise in one or two subjects, though some may offer more. 

Children may benefit from a 1:1 session with tutors as it allows their personal teacher to spot areas where the child may be struggling. The tutor can, then, form measures to help children improve areas where they are facing difficulties. 

Good tutors are often fully-booked for months in advance and work all-year-round. Some may also work through holidays to keep children focused. 


Working as a Nanny

A nanny is responsible for providing the best care possible to their employers’ children.  These childcare experts either live inside the family home or near the household. Typically working 5/6 days per week some families require 24/7 care and so will employ multiple nannies working on rota.

The nanny often looks after the children from a young age. They help with nursery duties, including sterilising bottles, preparing children’s meals, organising the children’s laundry, cleaning the playing area, and other domestic responsibilities related to childcare. 

Numerous families prefer a well-experienced nanny, while some require someone with qualifications such as Norland or NNEB. Others also look for caregivers who carry a First Aid certification and a driver’s license.

These days, employers looking for a person who can both act as the child’s tutor and nanny are increasing.  Additionally, some families are also looking for workers who can provide care for the child and act as the household’s housekeeper.