Governance Manager
2 days ago
Kensington
Job Title: Governess (Live-Out) Location: Kensington, London Employer: Private Household Child: 1 small daughter Hours: Monday–Friday, approx.15:30–19:00 Start Date: As soon as possible Role Summary We are a private family based in Kensington seeking an experienced, warm and educated live-out Governess to support the development of our 3.5-year-old daughter. The focus of the role is on early years education, language development, manners and social skills, as well as creating a calm, nurturing and stimulating environment. The Governess will plan and oversee appropriate educational activities, help prepare her for nursery/pre-prep, and work closely with the parents to ensure consistency in routine and expectations. Key Responsibilities Early Years Education & Development Plan and deliver appropriate educational activities (early literacy, numeracy, phonics, storytelling, music, arts and crafts, sensory play, etc.). Support language development, vocabulary building and early reading skills through daily conversation and structured activities. Introduce appropriate concepts (colours, shapes, numbers, days of the week, seasons, basic geography, etc.) in a fun and engaging way. Encourage independence, curiosity, creativity and a love of learning. Help prepare her for nursery / pre-prep, Daily Routine & Structure Establish and maintain a consistent daily routine, including educational time, outdoor play, meals and wind-down/bedtime. Plan and accompany her to local activities (parks, playgroups, classes, museums, libraries in Kensington and surrounding areas) with parental approval. Coordinate with parents regarding meals, naps, activities and evening schedule. Manners, Behaviour & Social Skills Encourage good manners, kindness, sharing and respectful behaviour in line with family values. Support her social development with peers (playdates, group activities) and appropriate interaction with adults. Provide gentle, consistent guidance on behaviour and boundaries, always in agreement with the parents. Communication & Coordination Maintain open, regular communication with the parents on progress, activities, routines and any concerns. Provide brief updates or a simple daily/weekly summary of key activities and developmental milestones. Work collaboratively with any other household staff as needed. Practical / Light Duties Related to the Child Organise and maintain the child’s books, toys and educational materials in an orderly way. Prepare or arrange simple, healthy snacks and light meals for the child when required. Pack/prepare items needed for outings, activities and nursery. Requirements Proven experience as a Governess, Nanny-Governess, Teacher or Early Years Tutor working with young children (around 3–5 years). Strong early years education background: a degree or qualification in Education / Early Childhood Studies is highly desirable. Excellent spoken English: an additional language (e.g. French/Spanish) would be a plus but not essential. Familiarity with EYFS and/or UK independent nursery/pre-prep expectations is an advantage. Live-out and within easy commuting distance of Kensington. Comfortable working regular afternoon and evening hours. Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain) and excellent checkable references from previous families. Paediatric First Aid (or willingness to obtain). Personal Attributes Warm, caring and patient, with a genuine love of working with young children. Calm, discreet and professional, able to fit naturally into a private family environment. Highly organised and reliable, with good time management. Creative, energetic and proactive in planning activities and outings. Flexible and trustworthy, particularly around evening routines and bedtime. Well-presented, well-spoken and able to act as a positive role model.