Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expected to be “hands-on parents” and won’t be hiring a full-time nanny for their unborn child.
30-year-old Kate - who is expecting her first child with Prince William - will break with royal protocol by not hiring help around the clock in a bid to be "hands-on parents" and, instead, plans to rely upon the baby’s grandparents, Carole and Michael Middleton, as well as a part-time babysitter.
A close friend of the couple's told the MailOnline: "Catherine and William are determined to be hands-on parents. Her parents are very excited about the baby and will help out as much as possible. They will, probably, use a part-time nanny to help them out when they have to attend events and don't have a babysitter, but they don't want a full-time nanny."
The royal pair is known to shun domestic help, having reportedly chosen to not have any staff at their home in Anglesey, North Wales.
The news comes as a surprise, however, since William's own childhood nanny, Olga Powell, was a strong presence in his and Prince Harry’s life. The 30-year-old royal cancelled four public engagements in October in order to attend her funeral.
The news of William and Kate deciding not to hire a full-time nanny comes after a popular childcare search site; Findababysitter.com believed it had spotted a 'royal advert' for a nanny.
The advert was posted by a user registered as Kate C. - an alias the Duchess of Cambridge is said to use - it reads:
Soon-to-be first-time parents searching for the perfect nanny to extend the love and normality of an everyday family home.
The right nanny will be fluent in several languages of the British Commonwealth, confident in the public eye, and willing to travel regularly.
He or she must have excellent posture, grace, poise and perfect diction. A driving licence is not necessary, as a chauffeur will be provided. A love of dogs is beneficial, and exquisite taste in baby clothes is ideal to ensure the new arrival is as stylish as mummy.
The ideal candidate will also possess a classical education, including Greek and Latin, competency in two instruments, be passionate about croquet, polo, and be interested in art history and antiques. Experience dealing with spoilt first children would be helpful. Confidentiality is essential. Only candidates of the highest calibre will be considered.
Tom Harrow, CEO of Findababysitter.com comments on the moment a team member spotted the royal advert: “Our registered parents post thousands of new employment opportunities, but this one really stood out, especially as it came from an email address that we believe has a royal connection.”
A St James's Palace spokesman commented: "It is too early to say whether the Duke and Duchess will employ a nanny.”
Should William and Kate hire a nanny for their first-born? Tell us what you think in the comments below or tweet us @FemaleFirst_UK
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