NNEB OC —
Professional Network | Childcare & Household Services
NNEB News
19th October 2026
NNEB OC Newsletter October 2026
Celebrating Our Heritage | Protecting Professional Standards | Looking to the Future
Dear Fellow NNEBs and Friends,
Welcome to our October newsletter.
It has been an eventful few months for NNEB Old Collegians, with significant developments concerning professional titles, newborn care, safer sleep and the future recognition of qualified childcare professionals.
Alongside this important work, we continue to preserve the history of the National Nursery Examination Board, support former students and celebrate the remarkable contribution NNEB-trained Nursery Nurses have made to childcare and education throughout the United Kingdom and internationally.
We have several updates to share.
The Future of the Nursery Nurse and Maternity Nurse Titles
The Department of Health and Social Care's call for evidence concerning the proposed protection of the professional title "nurse" closed on 8 October 2026.
The Government is considering extending legal protection to the word "nurse", including where it forms part of a longer professional title. This has important implications for the established titles Nursery Nurse and Maternity Nurse.
The consultation sought evidence about professions that should be permitted to retain their existing titles through carefully defined exemptions.
NNEB OC supports the protection of the nursing profession while continuing to advocate for recognition of the historical and professional standing of appropriately qualified Nursery Nurses.
Nursery Nursing has a long and distinguished history as a profession in its own right, with substantial training in child development, education, practical childcare and safeguarding.
We believe any future arrangements must recognise this distinction and protect established professional identities without compromising public safety.
No final decision has yet been announced about exemptions for Nursery Nurses or Maternity Nurses. Further consultation on the proposed legislative changes is expected in 2027.
We thank everyone who contributed evidence and will continue to follow developments closely.
Read the Government's official proposals
The Lullaby Trust — Parliamentary Drop-In, 27 October 2026
An important development for everyone involved in caring for babies is The Lullaby Trust's Campaign for Safer Starts.
On Tuesday 27 October, The Lullaby Trust and Connor Rand MP will host a parliamentary drop-in for Members of Parliament.
The campaign is calling for stronger safeguards, including regulation and minimum qualification standards for individuals providing professional infant sleep support and advice.
It is also seeking improvements in health visitor provision and a new national safer sleep awareness campaign.
NNEB OC welcomes this initiative and has been in correspondence with The Lullaby Trust regarding the importance of recognising appropriately qualified maternity and newborn-care professionals.
We believe that families should have confidence that anyone offering professional infant care and sleep guidance has appropriate recognised qualifications, safeguarding knowledge, relevant experience and evidence-based safer sleep training.
We encourage our collegians and fellow childcare professionals to contact their MP before 27 October, asking them to attend the parliamentary drop-in and support meaningful professional standards and regulation.
The voices of experienced, appropriately qualified practitioners deserve to be heard in these discussions.
Read about the Campaign for Safer Starts and contact your MP
Introducing Maternity Newborn Professionals UK (MNPUK)
NNEB OC is pleased to be supporting the establishment of Maternity Newborn Professionals UK (MNPUK), a new practitioner-led professional initiative for qualified maternity and newborn-care professionals.
MNPUK is being developed in response to longstanding concerns about inconsistent qualification requirements, safeguarding standards, professional accountability and working conditions within the private maternity sector.
Its proposed priorities include recognised professional qualifications, enhanced safeguarding checks, paediatric first aid, safer sleep education, fair working arrangements and responsible recruitment practices.
An initial meeting of prospective founding members is being organised for November 2026.
MNPUK is intended to develop into an independent professional organisation, with its own governance and membership criteria. It is currently in its formative stages and is not a statutory regulator.
We welcome initial enquiries from suitably qualified maternity and newborn-care professionals who share our commitment to improving standards and protecting the future of the profession.
The NNEB 85th Anniversary Book — We Want Your Memories!
Our preparations to preserve the history of the National Nursery Examination Board continue.
As we look ahead to the NNEB's 85th anniversary in 2030, we are collecting personal memories and experiences for a special commemorative book.
The NNEB qualification was far more than a certificate. For generations of Nursery Nurses, it provided the foundations for rewarding careers in hospitals, nurseries, schools, private households, education and many other professions.
We would love to hear about your training college, tutors, placements, examinations, uniforms, friendships and the opportunities your NNEB qualification opened up.
Perhaps you trained alongside lifelong friends, worked overseas, established your own nursery or followed an entirely different career path. Every story forms part of our shared professional history.
You do not need to be a professional writer. We want your memories in your own words.
Contributions can be submitted through our dedicated webpage, where you may choose to be credited by name or remain anonymous.
Share your NNEB memories for the anniversary book
Publication updates will be announced through our website and social media channels.
NNEB OC Shop — Closing Sale
After many years of offering NNEB badges and memorabilia, we have decided to close the NNEB OC Shop once the remaining stock has sold.
Everything has now been reduced, and there will be no further restocking.
A limited selection of original Nursery Nurse and NNEB badges, professional enamel badges, lanyards and other memorabilia remains available.
Some pieces are particularly special and represent a tangible connection to the history of our profession.
We would like to thank everyone who has supported the shop, purchased commemorative items or helped keep the NNEB legacy alive.
If you have been thinking about purchasing a badge or keepsake, this is your final opportunity while stocks last.
Visit the NNEB OC closing sale
Supporting Former NNEB Students — Qualification Verification
Our work assisting former NNEB students continues.
We regularly hear from qualified Nursery Nurses who require evidence of their original qualification for employment, university admission, overseas recognition or professional registration processes.
For those who qualified before 1994, NNEB OC provides a qualification verification service for existing certificates and a separate evidence-based service for individuals who have lost their original certificate.
As the original National Nursery Examination Board no longer exists, replacement original certificates cannot be issued. However, where sufficient evidence is available, NNEB OC may be able to provide supporting verification documentation.
We are particularly pleased when our work helps former students demonstrate the training and qualifications they worked so hard to achieve.
Information about these services is available here:
NNEB Qualification Verification
Lost NNEB Certificate Assistance
Historical NNEB course syllabus documentation is also available through our website for those requiring additional information about the content of their original training.
NNEB Paragon Placements
Through NNEB Paragon Placements, we continue to support families seeking experienced, appropriately qualified Nannies, Maternity Nurses and private childcare professionals in the UK and internationally.
Our emphasis remains on recognised professional qualifications, experience, safeguarding and high standards of care.
Families and professionals interested in our placement services can find further information on the website.
Explore NNEB Paragon Placements
Thank You for Keeping the NNEB Legacy Alive
More than eight decades after the National Nursery Examination Board was established in 1945, its influence continues through the careers, knowledge and dedication of those who trained under it.
From preserving our shared history to contributing to discussions about the future of childcare and newborn care, NNEB OC remains committed to supporting our professional community.
Our history deserves to be remembered. Our qualifications deserve recognition. And future generations of babies, children and families deserve the highest standards of professional care.
Thank you to all our fellow collegians, friends and supporters who continue to share their experiences, contribute to discussions and help preserve this remarkable professional legacy.
Please share this newsletter with former classmates, colleagues and anyone with an interest in the history and future of professional childcare.
With warm wishes,
The NNEB Old Collegians Team
National Nursery Examination Board Old Collegians (NNEB OC)
Preserving our heritage. Supporting our profession. Championing professional standards.
19th August 2026
NNEB OC Newsletter August 2026
Hello NNEBs,
We hope you are all well. There is plenty happening across NNEB OC and NNEB Paragon, including professional opportunities, preparations for the NNEB’s 85th anniversary and a very important Government call for evidence.
Opportunities for NNEB Nannies and Maternity Nurses
Demand remains strong for exceptional, properly qualified NNEB nannies and maternity nurses, particularly those able to work internationally.
We are especially keen to hear from UK-qualified professionals who also hold an EU or US passport, as this may widen the range of international placements for which they can be considered.
Only a selection of current opportunities appears on the website. Some positions are confidential or may be filled before they can be advertised publicly.
View current NNEB Paragon opportunities
To be considered for suitable positions as they arise, please complete the candidate registration form and provide all the requested information and documents.
Register as a Paragon Childcare Professional
Final NNEB Memorabilia
We now have only a small selection of NNEB badges and memorabilia remaining.
Several items have been reduced, and once the remaining stock has sold, the NNEB memorabilia collection will not be restocked. This is therefore the final opportunity to purchase many of these items.
Contribute to the NNEB 85th Anniversary Book
Work has begun on a special commemorative book of NNEB memories to mark the 85th anniversary of the National Nursery Examination Board.
The book will create a lasting legacy and celebrate generations of gold-standard NNEB-trained Nursery Nurses and childcarers whose knowledge, professionalism and dedication helped shape childcare in the UK and around the world.
We would love to hear about your college, tutors, placements, examinations, uniform, badge, first position, friendships or memorable moments from your career.
Contributions do not need to be written formally—we want to hear your memories in your own words.
Updates about the book, including publication information, will be announced through the NNEB OC website and our official social media pages. Contributors will not be contacted individually, so please keep an eye on these channels.
Urgent: The Future of the Nursery Nurse Title
The Government has opened an important call for evidence concerning the professional title “nurse”.
Its proposals could make it an offence for someone who is not registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council to use the word “nurse”, including when it appears within a longer professional title, unless an appropriate exemption is created.
This could directly affect the long-established titles Nursery Nurse and Maternity Nurse.
The Government is asking which roles should continue to be permitted to use the word “nurse” and whether other related professional titles should be formally protected. This is an important opportunity for NNEBs to explain:
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The history and professional standing of the Nursery Nurse title.
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The depth of the original NNEB training and assessment.
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Why Nursery Nursing is a distinct childcare profession.
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How the title is understood by employers, families and the public.
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Why suitably qualified Nursery Nurses should be able to retain their professional title.
If you have worked as a Nursery Nurse or Maternity Nurse, please contribute your experience in your own words.
The closing date is 11:59pm on 8 October 2026.
Respond to the Government call for evidence
Please ensure that you reach the end of the Government survey and select Submit, otherwise your response will not be considered.
NNEB Qualification Support
NNEB OC continues to support former students, employers, universities and overseas organisations requiring assistance with historical NNEB qualifications.
If you still hold your original certificate but require formal confirmation of its authenticity and corresponding qualification level:
NNEB Qualification Verification
If you qualified before 1994 and have lost your original NNEB certificate, NNEB OC may be able to assist through its separate verification service. Original certificates cannot be replaced because the National Nursery Examination Board no longer exists, and sufficient supporting evidence will be required.
Lost NNEB Certificate Verification
Please Help Us Spread the Word
Please share this newsletter with former college friends and other NNEBs—particularly the invitation to contribute to the anniversary book and the Government call for evidence.
Thank you for continuing to support the NNEB legacy and the professional recognition of gold-standard Nursery Nurses.
Warm regards,
NNEB HQ Team
2nd June 2026
NNEB OC Newsletter Update – Summer 2026
New: Maternity Nurse Regulation & Nursery Nurse Title Protection
Many of you will be aware that former Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, announced proposals to protect the title Nursery Nurse and introduce regulation within the Maternity Nurse sector.
Since those announcements were made, many professionals have been asking what progress has been made and whether the Government intends to continue with these proposals.
To help provide clarity, the NNEB Old Collegians has created a new Regulation page, which outlines the background to the proposals and includes a downloadable template letter that professionals can send to their local MP.
The letter asks MPs to seek clarification from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care regarding:
• The future protection of the title Nursery Nurse
• Proposed regulation of Maternity Nurses
• Who will be entitled to use these professional titles
• Qualification and professional standards requirements
• Future consultation and implementation plans
If you are a Nursery Nurse, Maternity Nurse, NNEB, childcare professional, nurse, midwife or supporter of professional standards within childcare, we encourage you to visit the page and consider contacting your MP.
Visit the Regulation page to learn more and download the template letter.
21st May 2026
NNEB OC Newsletter – Summer 2026
Nursery Nurse Badge – Now Available to Pre-Order
We are delighted to announce that the new Nursery Nurse enamel badge is now available to pre-order on the NNEB OC Shop.
Designed to celebrate the professionalism and legacy of Nursery Nurses across all recognised examining boards, the badge has been produced in the same high-quality style as the popular NNEB 80th Anniversary badge.
Badge Details:
• Hard enamel pin badge
• Gold-coloured finish
• Deluxe clutch fixing
• Velvet presentation box
Pre-orders are now open, with dispatch expected from approximately 9th July 2026 in order of purchase.
Visit the NNEB OC Shop to order yours.
Clarification on the “Nursery Nurse” and “Maternity Nurse” Titles
NNEB OC continues to advocate for greater clarity and protection surrounding the use of the titles “Nursery Nurse” and “Maternity Nurse”.
Two formal letters were sent to Wes Streeting regarding concerns around unregulated training, title misuse, and the impact this is having on standards and public understanding within childcare and postnatal care sectors.
Following recent government changes and with the parliamentary summer recess approaching, we are not expecting immediate movement on this issue. Unfortunately, we have not yet received a response from Mr Streeting or his department.
However, we will not give up on raising these concerns and hope to hear from the Department in due course.
This remains an important issue for many experienced childcare professionals who believe that the public deserves transparency regarding qualifications, training, and professional competence.
NNEB – Clarifying the Position
There has been increasing discussion around whether the NNEB could be taught in colleges again.
Following discussions with professionals working within awarding organisations, it is clear that any attempt to reinstate the NNEB would require the development of an entirely new qualification.
Such a qualification would need:
• Ownership by an awarding organisation
• Approval through Ofqual
• Alignment with current Department for Education Early Years Educator criteria
In practical terms, this means it would need to fit within existing frameworks and would ultimately be very similar to qualifications already in place today.
In addition, there is currently no funding available to support the development of a new qualification of this kind.
The reality is that the original NNEB, as it is known historically, cannot simply be brought back or reintroduced into colleges.
The focus now must be on recognising the value of the NNEB legacy, while working within today’s framework to maintain standards, support professionals, and develop credible pathways for the future.
NNEB Paragon Maternity – Training & Bookings Now Launched
We are pleased to announce the launch of:
• NNEB Paragon Maternity Training
• NNEB Paragon Bookings for Maternity Nurses and Nannies
For those considering a transition into private maternity nursing, the NNEB Paragon pathway has been designed specifically for experienced childcare professionals seeking to work within private homes and high-profile family settings.
The programme courses focuses on:
• Professional standards
• Working within private households
• Newborn and postnatal care
• Risk awareness and safeguarding
• Client expectations and professional boundaries
Explore the training and booking services here:
Opportunities in the Middle East
We currently have a fabulous opportunity available in the Middle East through the NNEB Paragon Opportunities page.
We are always interested in hearing from professionals holding recognised government-regulated childcare qualifications who are seeking work within the private childcare and maternity sector.
NNEB OC Lanyards – Price Reduced
The price of the popular NNEB OC lanyard has now been reduced.
A practical addition for working professionals, training events, and reunions.
Available now via the NNEB OC Shop.
NNEB Syllabus / Curriculum Copies Available
If any former students or professionals require a copy of the NNEB Syllabus/Curriculum up to 1993, copies are available on request.
Please contact NNEB OC via the contact form on the website or through the dedicated link online.
Volunteers Needed – NNEB 85th Anniversary Museum Display
As we approach the NNEB 85th Anniversary, we are seeking volunteers to assist with a proposed NNEB museum-style display celebrating the history and legacy of the National Nursery Examination Board.
We would particularly welcome hearing from anyone based in London who may be interested in helping with planning, coordination, or display support.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us through the NNEB OC website
Preserving the NNEB Legacy
As the NNEB approaches its 85th anniversary, preserving the history and professional legacy of Nursery Nursing has never been more important. We thank all former students and professionals who continue to support this work.
Despite changes within the childcare sector over the years, experienced Nursery Nurses and NNEB-trained professionals continue to be respected internationally and remain in demand for private childcare, nanny, and maternity roles overseas.
In some countries, including Bermuda, holding a recognised government-regulated qualification such as the NNEB has enabled professionals to obtain work visas for nanny and maternity nurse positions. This continues to highlight the value and international recognition historically associated with robust childcare training and professional standards.
NNEB OC remains committed to preserving that legacy while supporting professionals navigating the modern childcare and private maternity sector.
National Nursery Examination Board Old Collegians (NNEB OC)
20th March 2026
Spring 2026 Newsletter
Welcome to our Spring newsletter.
It’s hard to believe we are already heading into spring—the start of the year has flown by. It has been a wonderfully busy time for us, with our ongoing childcare roles, time spent volunteering at NNEB OC HQ, and a very special project that we’re excited to share more about with you soon.
One of the things we value most is hearing from fellow NNEB nursery nurses across the UK and around the world. Every year, we connect with collegians who are doing incredible work at all stages of their careers, and it is always such a pleasure to hear your stories. The dedication, professionalism, and impact of NNEB nursery nurses within childcare and education continues to shine through.
NNEB-qualified nursery nurses remain highly respected and in demand globally, working across a wide range of roles within childcare and education. Our collegians can be found in schools, nurseries, kindergartens, colleges, universities, hospitals, government departments, and private households. Many are thriving as nannies, maternity nurses, and in senior roles supporting families at the highest level.
We are also seeing a growing demand for NNEB-qualified maternity nurses internationally, particularly in places such as Bermuda and the Cayman Islands, where recognised, government-regulated qualifications are essential. Those with dual nationality, especially EU passports, often have even greater flexibility in accessing these opportunities.
In response to this demand, we are delighted to have launched NNEB Paragon Placements. If you are interested in exploring new opportunities, we would love to hear from you.
As we approach our 85th Anniversary, we are putting together a very special book of NNEB memories. We would be absolutely delighted if you would consider sharing your experiences—whether from your training days or your career since. It is these shared stories that truly bring our community to life, and we will be sharing details on how to contribute very soon.
And finally, after many requests from our collegians, we are so pleased to introduce our exclusive NNEB lanyard, now available to purchase.
Thank you for being such an important part of the NNEB community—we are always so proud to be part of this network.
29th October 2025
Celebrating 80 Years of Excellence
This year at NNEB HQ, we've been celebrating a truly special milestone — 80 years of the National Nursery Examination Board (NNEB)!
It’s been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our history, reconnect with fellow collegians, and celebrate the value of this cherished qualification that has shaped generations of childcare professionals.
Visit our Facebook page to join in the celebrations and see more of our anniversary highlights.
What We’ve Been Working On
It’s been a busy and rewarding year at NNEB HQ! Here are just a few of the ways we’ve been supporting our community:
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Qualification Verification – helping confirm authentic NNEB qualifications.
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Lost Certificate Support – assisting collegians to verify their original certificate.
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Promoting NNEBs to Employers – talking to nursery chains about the benefits of employing qualified NNEBs.
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Keeping Employers Informed – providing up-to-date proof that the NNEB is still a full and relevant Level 3 childcare qualification, recognised and respected across the UK & internationally.
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Supporting Further Education – guiding collegians through university applications. It’s never too late to learn new skills or explore a new direction in life!
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Helping Fill Childcare Roles – connecting the industry with experienced NNEBs.
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Launching Our 80th Anniversary Badge – a beautiful keepsake loved by all.
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Raising Awareness – helping families and UK authorities understand the importance of regulating the unregulated maternity nurse industry. This is the only childcare sector in the UK currently without regulation, and we will continue to campaign for positive change.
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Assisting with Enquiries – we’ve answered hundreds of emails from around the globe.
New NNEB Merchandise
To continue to mark our 80th anniversary, we’ve designed a bespoke NNEB tote bag – the perfect way to show your pride in our shared heritage.
More exclusive NNEB merchandise will be available soon, so keep an eye on our website for updates!
In the meantime, you can still purchase our limited-edition anniversary badges. They make an ideal Christmas gift for yourself or a fellow NNEB.
Don’t miss out — once they’re gone, they’re gone!
Thank You
A heartfelt thank you to all our collegians, supporters, and friends of the NNEB community for helping us celebrate this special year.
Here’s to the next chapter — continuing to uphold the NNEB’s proud tradition of quality childcare, education, and excellence.
Warm wishes,
The NNEB HQ Team
26th March 2025
Dear NNEBs,
Here is an update from NNEB Old Collegians HQ.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the National Nursery Examination Board (NNEB) Childcare and Education Diploma—a truly significant milestone.
2025 also marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8th May 1945.
As NNEBs, we celebrate our gold-standard qualification on 1st May each year. Please join us in commemorating the NNEB by sharing your memories of training, your NNEB career, or where it has led you. You can do this via our NNEB OC Facebook group or The NNEB OC Facebook Page.
We are particularly keen to hear from fellow NNEB collegians who were taught by Bessie Wright MBE. Bessie Wright was involved in the founding of the NNEB in 1945 and, in 1947, became course tutor for the NNEB training at Nottingham Nursery Nurses Training Centre. She later served as Principal of Waverley College, Nottingham, until 1975. If you have any memories of your training at Waverley, we would love to hear from you.
If you would like to show your appreciation and recognition for the NNEB, you can download and print an NNEB celebration poster from our website via the button below. It would be wonderful to see photos of the poster displayed in your workplace or home.
The NNEB Childcare and Education Diploma remains a full and relevant childcare qualification recognised internationally. It continues to feature on the UK and international government childcare qualification checkers. NNEBs work worldwide in a variety of roles—our poll in the NNEB OC Facebook group has recorded over 80 different NNEB-related occupations, a testament to how valued and sought-after this qualification remains both in the UK and beyond.
In the UK, most careers involving children are regulated, with the exception of Nannies and Maternity Nurses. If you work in these professions, please consider supporting the National Nanny Association, which is campaigning for regulation in these fields.
Additionally, the NNEB OC maternity nurses would love to connect with fellow NNEB-qualified maternity nurses interested in joining a steering group for maternity nurse regulation. Many NNEB maternity nurses have experience in training, assessment, and other regulated roles, and their expertise would be invaluable in shaping the future of maternity nursing. If you are interested, please get in touch if you are interested in shaping the future for maternity nurse regulation.
Lastly if you would like an NNEB Badge we have some preloved badges on the NNEB OC website.
Thank you for your continued support of the NNEB and our professional legacy.
Best wishes,
Your fellow collegians.