Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions we get asked about from candidates. We are always here to help so if you have a question not answered here please contact us.
How many years' experience working as a Nanny must I have in order to register with Imperial?
We require a minimum of 3 years’ experience working in a private household for UK based roles and, for overseas roles, 5 years’ experience
Does Imperial charge candidates a fee to register with the agency?
We don’t charge candidates any application fee.
Do you assist with CV writing for candidates you accept?
Whilst we don’t offer CV writing services, we can certainly assist you with laying out your CV clearly in preparation for finding that perfect position.
If an interview is arranged for me to travel outside my home town, will the client pay/contribute towards my travel expenses within reason?
This varies from client to client, however, your consultant will confirm at the time of offering you an interview whether the client will pay/contribute towards these expenses.
As I have been working in a nursery for 5 years since qualifying as a nanny, can I still register with Imperial?
Whilst your childcare experience is invaluable, we require a minimum of 3 + years’ experience working as a nanny within a private household. This ensures that our candidates are fully prepared and given the best chance to succeed in their placements.
I don't have a DBS so how can I apply for one?
We are an authorised body who can assist you with your DBS and the turnaround is pretty swift.
Which DBS should I have apply for?
As you will be working with children, you will be required to apply for the Enhanced DBS, which also includes the Barred Listing. We can assist all our applicants with this process
How much is the Enhanced DBS application?
We are affiliated to a fast-track agency who charge £55 to receive an enhanced DBS.
As I registered many years ago and gave you all my certificates and references, will you still have them or do I have to reapply with my complete portfolio?
Due to current GDPR legislation, we are not able to hold data for more than two years if we have not engaged in meaningful contact with you. Therefore, if it has been a while since you were last placed in a position, or in contact with us, you will have to update your documents and information. This also ensures we are fully up to date with your most recent skills and work history to achieve the best placement reflective of your most recent experience!
In terms of salary, does Imperial pay the nanny's salary?
Imperial is an introduction agency only and all candidates placed in positions are paid directly by the client.
If I take a live-in position, will the employer pay for my moving expenses?
This will be at the employer’s sole discretion. Some employers will contribute but you should budget to move at your own expense in case moving costs aren’t offered
For live-in positions, what are the general arrangements for food and refreshments?
Most Nannies and Governesses will prepare meals and eat with their charges except on their day(s) off. When off duty, you can either eat when you are out and about or at the family home.
If I take a position through Imperial, will a Contract of Employment be provided?
You can be rest assured that all clients who recruit through Imperial will provide written terms of employment set out in the form of a contract. Your consultant will assist you in every step of the way and will ensure your salary, hours of work, days off and holiday entitlements are laid out clearly for both parties to agree.
What type of First Aid qualification must I have to work through Imperial?
All applicants must hold a Paediatric First Aid certificate after having completed a 2 day course. This fully incorporates all the necessary modules and is valid for 3 years after which time you will need to repeat the 2 day course.
If I am offered an overseas position which requires a work visa, how will I organise this?
Rest assured, any visas to be applied for will be organised and paid for by the Client.
Do some positions require the candidate to undergo a medical examination?
Some overseas positions do require that you undergo a medical examination for visa or medical insurance purposes only. Your consultant will advise you at the time of discussing the position with you, however, these generally apply to visas required for positions in the Middle East.
Is there usually a trial period with overseas positions?
All roles entail a 12-week probation period to allow for a smooth settling in.
Will the client pay for travel expenses?
All travel is paid for during your working day and your consultant will advised you according to the specific position.
What will my Holiday Entitlement be?
This varies from client to client and country to country and your consultant will set out your entitlement at the time she discusses the position with you.
Will the client pay for my flights/transfers when I start a new position?
The client is responsible for providing a flight at the start and at the end of your employment. With our overseas placements, one or two return flights to the UK/country of residence are usually included. However, this is at the discretion of the client.
Alternatively, would the client be flexible on providing a flight which isn't the country where I resided prior to taking up employment?
This will be at the discretion of the client and should be agreed upon at the start of employment. If the position is in Switzerland and you were based in the UK but wished to fly to France, that is a reasonable request. Flying from Switzerland to Australia or the USA is not!! However, if employment went well and the client is feeling generous, you never know what you may be offered!
Are all the positions you advertise genuine?
In a word: Yes! The positions you will see on our website are current and available as are all the candidates we advertise.
When I apply for a position, will you keep me up-to-date on my application?
We always keep our candidates up-to-date and any feedback from clients will always be relayed back to you. We never keep our candidates hanging on or waiting for an answer. We keep in communication with all candidates and have a strong working relationship based on mutual respect.