Wearing the iconic Norland uniform and your professional responsibilities
Why choose Norland
You'll uphold our international reputation as a centre of excellence
Part of what will make your student experience so different from any other is that you will be joining an organisation with a long and distinguished history as a centre for excellence. This means there are certain traditions that you must follow and high expectations that you must meet to ensure that you uphold and maintain our international reputation as the best childcare trainer in the world.
You’ll wear an iconic uniform while studying
One of our traditions is the iconic uniform you’ll be required to wear during your studies. Introduced by founder Emily Ward, the Norland uniform was designed to ensure that graduates were recognised as professionals in their own right, much like a professional nurse.
The uniform has been adapted over the years and you’ll wear a formal uniform for lectures and events and practical uniform for practical training and placements. Wearing the uniform will instil a sense of pride at being part of our prestigious history. There are a strict set of rules that you must follow when you are wearing the uniform and you will also be required to follow our code of conduct for students.
Detailed information about the uniform you will be required to purchase can be found at the links below.
The cost of purchasing the uniform along with the other costs of studying at Norland is provided on our fees and study costs page.
View fees and study costs
Information about the uniform
Norland uniform list
View documentNorland formal uniform items (Schoolblazer)
View documentNorland uniform guidance
View documentYou’ll role model good behaviour and prioritise the health and safety of children
Under no circumstances should you consume alcohol prior to or whilst working with children or when attending Norland. You should be aware of, and avoid, the effects that the use of alcohol can have on your judgement. This applies not only to driving but also to caring for children and your ability to study the next day. Drinking too much can also result in behaviour of which you could later be ashamed, and which could bring discredit to Norland.
Unless specifically prescribed by a medical practitioner, harmful substances and drugs are not to be brought into Norland. Possession or use of illegal substances will result in immediate suspension.
You are not permitted to smoke anywhere in Norland’s buildings or grounds, or at any time whilst in uniform. You are strongly discouraged from smoking at any time for health reasons.
You should not take or use anyone else’s property without the owner’s specific agreement on each occasion. No one is to interfere with anyone else’s personal belongings without their permission.
Hair colour should be natural or dyed a natural shade (brown, black, blonde, auburn). You will be asked to change it if it is deemed to not follow these guidelines.
Facial or neck tattoos are not acceptable and likewise, anything that might be intimidating or distressing to young children. Symbols that are racist, sexist or target any groups, hate speech and images (or language) that might be deemed too graphic are also not permitted. Decisions regarding acceptability will be made on a case by case basis.
You must always demonstrate a high level of professionalism at all times when wearing your uniform as you are highly visible. In order to be a good role model for children and to ensure good habits are formed whilst training, you must not do the following when wearing your uniform: chew gum; listen to music using headphones/ear buds; consume food and drink whilst walking around; use a mobile phone whilst walking in the street (except in the event of an emergency); purchase alcohol; smoke; buy fast food or eat in a fast food restaurant; cross the road unless using a crossing.
Attendance is a key component in student continuation, achievement, progression and employability. You are expected to attend all classes as required unless you are ill or have been authorised to take special leave. Read our Attendance Policy on our student policies page for further information.
If you leave Norland without completing the degree and diploma course, you are not entitled to wear your uniform at any time or call yourself a Norland Nanny or Norlander.
Useful information and documents
Student Charter
The Charter sets out our partnership in learning. Jointly created by Norland and students, the Charter represents our shared commitment to the values of the college and to developing and maintaining a stimulating, diverse and supportive environment that is conducive to learning.
Read the Student CharterCode of Professional Responsibilities
The Norland Code of Professional Responsibilities contains the professional standards that students, NQNs and Norland graduates must uphold. The values and principles underpin the behaviours and competencies expected students and graduates.
Read the Code of Professional ResponsibilitiesSocial Media Policy
The Social Media Policy outlines Norland's expectations of students, Newly Qualified Nannies (NQNs) and Norlanders while working with children and families. The policy also details how students, NQNs and Norlanders should manage their own personal profiles.
Read the Social Media PolicyView policies and procedures
For more information about what is expected of Norland students, NQNs and Norlanders, please view the policies and procedures. This includes policies such as Fitness to Practice, Fitness to Study and Student Attendance policies.
View policies and proceduresI would like to share some really positive feedback about the last few Norland students that we have had on the neonatal unit. One was incredibly switched on and interested in absolutely everything. She participated in every learning opportunity and was a human sponge! She was also very smiley and warm. Another, who had district nursing experience, was excellent at applying her existing knowledge to babies and adjusting to the differences. She was very professional and calming in manner, observant and keen to learn. Another who has joined us this week was actively participating in caring for babies within 45 minutes of her first day starting. Her handwashing and infection control is spot-on. She has also been really proactive in working with babies who don't have families present, and in speaking to staff to ask what is needed. The others that have come before were also very committed to learning and enthusiastic – it's lovely to see how some are so nervous on day one and then flourish by the end!Royal United Hospital Neonatal Senior Sister
