British American Household Staffing

What are the duties of a Governess?

In terms of duties, a governess will typically incorporate age-appropriate activities that not only advance the child’s academic development, but also their social and emotional development, broadening the child’s horizons, and encouraging them to question and engage with the world around them. She will typically teach the child a second language and/or how to read music and/or play a musical instrument, as well as instill etiquette, and encourage good manners and behavior. While an educational background is not always required for a nanny, it’s essential for a governess.

Though a governess will ensure her charges are safe and cared for at all times (and this may dovetail with the role of a nanny), she is primarily focused on ensuring they are reaching educational milestones and behaving appropriately. 

Typical responsibilities of a governess as follows:

• Support child’s learning as required (per school/ homeschool curriculum). This typically incorporates; attending parents’ evenings/ liaising with teaching staff/ sourcing and working alongside private tutors/ engaging with educational networks e.g. sourcing supplementary learning materials, as appropriate
• Liaise with parents, teaching staff and nannies re: objectives, progress and developmental strategies
• Implement age-specific and appropriate activities, ensuring child thrives emotionally, physically and academically.
• Teach extra-curricular, specialist skills e.g. playing a musical instrument/ speaking a new language/ playing a particular sport.
• Travel with the family (if required) and organize child’s leisure and educational activities during the trip.
• Instill/ reinforce manners, etiquette and social skills that the child can successfully implement in any given situation.