“I was drawn back to nannying” – mature student Mai shares her journey to Norland
9 June 2026
After working in a range of childcare settings, second-year mature student Mai made the decision to return to education and study at Norland. In this blog, she reflects on what drew her back to nannying, how Norland’s training has expanded her skillset and the confidence she has gained through combining academic study with practical experience.
“I discovered Norland through my father who showed me the ITV documentary. Once I’d started researching Norland, I saw the variety of skills and range of knowledge Norland training provides, and the opportunities to be shaped both professionally and personally. This interested me greatly because I’ve always been in awe of people, like my father, who have a broad range of skills and know about many different topics.
“When I attended an open day, speaking to current students was a turning point in my decision. Their passion for Norland was evident, and I quickly realised Norland was a place where I could build confidence and skills while pursuing my love for childcare.
“After leaving school, I didn’t come straight into higher education. Instead, I gained valuable experience working as a practitioner in a nursery and a school, including as a Learning Support Assistant (LSA). I continued to nanny alongside this. I thought about teaching as a career pathway, but the level of personalised one-to-one care – as well as the excitement of the role such as opportunities to travel – meant ultimately, I was drawn back to nannying. I loved getting to know families properly and building meaningful relationships with both children and parents. Being able to provide individualised, one‑to‑one care felt incredibly rewarding.”
“Despite having worked for several years in childcare, I wanted to study something I was truly passionate about. Coming to Norland meant I would gain a respected qualification and know that I would be supported throughout my career. What confirmed my decision was the structure of the course, the sense of community and lecturers who take the time to know each student individually really appealed to me. The Norland Agency, the lifelong support and the incredible range of skills taught all confirmed that this was the right path for me.
“I was particularly drawn to the practical side of the course and have enjoyed our Food and Nutrition modules, as cooking is one of my passions. Before Norland, I had worked as a chef de partie and completed a cookery course, so this element of the training aligned perfectly with my interests and previous experience.
“Norland’s course has helped me reflect and learn from my practice, constantly improving. We learn how to navigate a range of professional settings and the ethical principles that come into play in our practice. Placements in a variety of settings, such as special education needs specialist schools or forest school, has given me an amazing opportunity to learn about adapting my practice and expand my skillset. I feel confident that, as a nanny, I could support transitions to different settings – as I’ve learned within those spaces.”
Returning to education as a mature student has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made, and Norland has given me the tools and guidance to build a career I am truly passionate about.
“From an academic perspective, after having five years out of education, I thought I may struggle. But now, in my second year, I feel back in the swing of assignments and essay writing. I thought it would be a challenge, but I have had such support that I now feel confident in my assignments, gathering research, considering ethics and creating methodologies.
“A recent project I enjoyed was Designing the Home Environment – part of our Practice in the Early Years: The Home module – where we thoughtfully planned spaces to holistically support a child within the home, drawing on theorists and pedagogies. I particularly enjoyed learning how the small details encourage curiosity, creativity and a sense of independence in children.
“Even during training, Norland has opened doors for me. I have had part-time jobs alongside my studies including holiday nannying roles where I’ve been lucky enough to be spoiled for choice with where I go! Due to the high level of training that families know we have and Norland’s reputation, I am able to take on jobs I never thought I would. This has made me even more excited for what opportunities I will have once I’ve graduated.”
“Throughout my studies, I have particularly enjoyed working with the youngest children and would love to become a maternity nanny, working in postnatal support and exploring the world through working internationally in these roles. Before Norland, I struggled to work out which path to take within childcare. Now, thanks to the wide range of experiences and training we receive, I feel confident and excited about the future.
“The confidence, skills and clarity I now have are completely down to the training and support we receive. Returning to education as a mature student has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made, and Norland has given me the tools and guidance to build a career I am truly passionate about.”
Find out more about studying the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care
