the vetting process
join the village
A village that takes vetting seriously
We only work with sitters who have genuine childcare experience. Here's what to expect.
Your tier
Which one sounds like you?
Whichever tier you join, you're paid at or above the National Minimum Wage. Your tier simply makes sure you're matched with families who need exactly what you bring.
“I'm building my experience and ready to dive in.”
You have 1–2 years' experience working with children, an apprentice, or previous nursery or primary school experience. Every great professional started exactly here.
“I'm qualified, confident and ready for more.”
You're Level 2 or 3 qualified, with 2–5 years' experience in an early years or school setting. Skills like Makaton are a bonus.
“I bring expertise families look for.”
You're Level 3+ qualified in early years or health and social care, with 6+ years' experience in a nursery or education setting, plus you may have one of these:
- a specialism, such as SEN, speech and language, sleep training or behaviour support
- nursery or school management experience
- a teaching degree
Not sure which one's you? Apply anyway and we'll confirm your tier together after your interview.
A little secret
10 bookings in, and we've got something for you
Some things are more fun to discover than to be told. Go on — give the door a knock.
psst — tap the tenth
You've found it
Complete your 10th booking with us and we'll be in touch with something special, just for you. Consider it our thank-you for being part of the village.
Little Village Co
Join the Village
We're always looking for warm, experienced sitters and nannies to join our village. Send your CV below to get started — here's what happens next.
You apply
Send your CV using the form below.
We review
We'll read every application and get back to suitable candidates.
Application form
We'll send a short form about your experience and references.
Interview
A friendly chat to see if we're a good fit for each other.
Ready to join the village?
Fill out the form below and attach your CV — we'll be in touch soon.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
The things sitters ask us most. Anything else, just ask.
Join the Village →01How much will I actually earn?
Your pay depends on your tier — Standard, Experienced, or Specialist — based on your experience and qualifications. Whatever tier you're in, you're always paid at least the National Minimum Wage, with real increases as your experience and qualifications grow. We'll confirm your exact rate once you join us.
02When and how do I get paid?
By bank transfer, every two weeks on a Friday — with a clear breakdown every time, so you always know exactly what you're being paid for.
03What vetting do I need to go through?
Enhanced DBS check, ID and right-to-work verification, two verified references, paediatric first aid, and a face-to-face interview.
04Can I turn down bookings I don't want?
Yes — accept or decline any booking, no minimum commitment.
05Do I need my own insurance?
We recommend holding your own public liability insurance for your own protection while working, and we're happy to point you in the right direction if you're not sure where to start.
06What if a family cancels on me last minute?
A cancellation fee is charged to the family and passed on to you, in recognition of the time you'd reserved.
07Can I take on other work alongside Little Village?
Yes — being part of Little Village isn't exclusive. The only thing we ask is that you don't privately arrange care with a family you've met through us, outside of Little Village. Everything else is entirely up to you.
08Do I need to sort out my own tax?
No — you're paid through PAYE, so tax and National Insurance are worked out and deducted automatically before your pay reaches you. No Self Assessment, no year-end surprises.