Today marks 80 years since the founding of the NNEB (National Nursery Examination Board) — a qualification that shaped generations of nannies and nursery nurses across the UK and beyond. As the National Nanny Association, we want to take a moment to reflect on this remarkable milestone and honour the legacy of a credential that has set the standard for professional childcare for eight decades.
The Birth of the NNEB
In 1945, in the immediate aftermath of World War II, Britain faced enormous social changes. Families were rebuilding, mothers were re-entering the workforce, and the demand for trained nursery nurses grew sharply. Recognising the urgent need for a consistent standard in early years care, the National Nursery Examination Board (NNEB) was established.
The NNEB aimed to provide a recognised, standardised qualification for those working with young children — particularly in nurseries, hospitals, and private homes. It was a landmark step: for the first time, there was a formal route to train childcare workers with a focus on not just practical care, but child development, play, and learning.
The Golden Standard for Nannies
Throughout the 1950s to the 1980s, the NNEB Diploma became the gold standard for nannies, nursery nurses, and childcarers in the UK. Completing the two-year full-time course — often taught at specialist colleges — signalled a deep understanding of early childhood development, health and safety, play, and the emotional needs of young children.
Families hiring a nanny with an NNEB qualification knew they were bringing someone into their home who was trained, examined, and experienced. Many of today’s senior nannies and childcare professionals proudly carry their NNEB qualification and look back on their training as rigorous, thoughtful, and deeply formative.
Evolving with the Times
In the 1990s, childcare qualifications across the UK underwent reforms to modernise training and consolidate pathways. The NNEB merged into the CACHE (Council for Awards in Care, Health and Education) framework, which remains one of the major awarding bodies for childcare and health education today.
Although the name “NNEB” is no longer used officially, its spirit lives on through the CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education and similar qualifications. Many in the industry still use the term “NNEB” informally, recognising the prestige and history associated with it.
A Lasting Legacy
Over 80 years, the NNEB has:
Raised the profile of nannying and nursery work as a profession Promoted child-centred, developmentally appropriate care Helped generations of childcare workers achieve formal recognition and career progression Laid the foundation for modern childcare qualifications used today
As we celebrate this anniversary, we encourage nannies across the UK to share their NNEB stories — whether you trained decades ago or you’re newly aware of its historical significance.
Looking Forward
At the National Nanny Association, we believe the spirit of the NNEB — valuing well-trained, knowledgeable, and professional nannies — is more important than ever. As we continue to push for nanny regulation and professional recognition, we stand on the shoulders of those early pioneers who formalised childcare as a skilled profession.
Here’s to 80 years of the NNEB and the thousands of childcare professionals who have proudly carried its name.