Live-in Governess (24/5) | B6, G9 & G11 | Kensington, London

Location: Kensington, London
Accommodation: Live-in
Schedule: Sunday morning–Thursday evening (24/5)
Salary: £75,000–£80,000 gross per annum
Start Date: September 2026 (flexible for the right candidate)
Holiday: To be discussed
Commitment: Long-term

The Role

A wonderful opportunity has arisen for an experienced, highly organised and dedicated Governess to join a warm, informal UHNW family based in Kensington, caring for three delightful children: a boy aged 6, a girl aged 9 and a girl aged 11.

This is a fully staffed household with an established housekeeper and after-school nanny already in place, allowing the successful candidate to focus entirely on the children’s education, development and overall wellbeing. Mum works from home, is incredibly supportive and involved, and is looking for a Governess who will confidently take full charge of the children’s educational journey while working collaboratively with the wider household team.

The role is based on a 24/5 schedule, from Sunday morning until Thursday evening. The current Governess will remain with the family until 31st August, allowing for a thorough handover, although the family are happy to accommodate an earlier start should the successful candidate wish to begin sooner. A trial can take place immediately.

The children are bright, academically motivated and already benefit from excellent tutors. Whilst supporting their academic progress, including extensive 11+ preparation, the family are equally passionate about finding someone who will nurture the children’s confidence, emotional wellbeing and social development. They are looking for a Governess who is genuinely invested in the children’s happiness, maintains high expectations with warmth and kindness, and consistently demonstrates unconditional positive regard. The successful candidate will always advocate for the children’s best interests whilst encouraging them to become confident, resilient and well-rounded young people.

Excellent communication is highly valued within the household. The Governess will maintain detailed diary notes and handovers for Mum, ensuring continuity throughout the week by sharing updates on each child’s progress, wellbeing and workload. Knowing when to encourage, when to challenge and when a child simply needs time to recharge is an important part of this role.

Accommodation is provided within the family’s four-storey townhouse, with the Governess having her own bedroom. At present, the bathroom is shared with the girls on the top floor, although the family are actively searching for a new home where the Governess will have a private bathroom. Should the successful candidate require accommodation over the weekends, this can also be provided.

The family would particularly welcome candidates who have previously taught within leading independent preparatory schools and who are passionate about delivering an exceptional educational experience both inside and outside the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Taking full responsibility for the children’s educational development.
• Supporting extensive 11+ preparation alongside the children’s existing tutors.
• Encouraging confidence, independence and positive social development.
• Planning engaging educational and enrichment activities.
• Monitoring homework, school progress and organisation.
• Liaising with teachers, tutors and other educational professionals.
• Maintaining excellent communication and detailed handovers for Mum.
• Working collaboratively with the family’s household staff.
• Supporting the children’s emotional wellbeing whilst maintaining high expectations.
• Driving the children as required.

Candidate Requirements

• A recognised teaching qualification (secondary preferred).
• Previous experience working within UHNW households (ideally 5–10 years).
• Significant experience supporting children through the 11+ process.
• Exceptional organisational and communication skills.
• A warm, positive, proactive and highly professional approach.
• A genuine passion for children’s academic, emotional and social development.
• The ability to build trusting relationships whilst maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• A full driving licence.
• Previous experience within highly regarded independent preparatory schools would be highly advantageous.

To Apply

To apply, please email your CV to enquiries@quintessentialgoverness.com quoting Live-in Governess | Kensington. Due to the high volume of applications received, only suitable applicants will be contacted.