NNEB News
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)
13th April 2026
April 2026
We are deeply saddened to read of the tragic events highlighted in the recent news and extend our heartfelt sympathies to all the families affected.
No parent should ever have to endure such loss.
Karen Carter NNEB, private maternity nurse and Principal & Founder of the National Nursery Examination Board Old Collegians, recently contributed to this discussion in the press, highlighting the current lack of regulatory oversight within the private in-home maternity nurse sector.
These cases bring into sharp focus the importance of safe sleep practices, consistent training, and the need for clear, recognised standards across all areas of childcare — not only in regulated settings, but also within private in-home care.
As NNEB-trained Nursery Nurses, we were educated to work across all childcare environments, including hospitals, nurseries, schools and family homes, with a strong emphasis on safety, observation, and professional accountability from birth.
It is our firm belief that the level of training, assessment, and professional standards once embedded within the NNEB framework should once again form the foundation of care for babies and young children.
Karen Carter NNEB fully supports the regulation of the private maternity nurse industry to ensure families are provided with safe, clear, and consistent standards of care.
Above all, this is about safeguarding babies and supporting parents at their most vulnerable time.
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 Maternity. 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:
-
Qualification Verification – helping confirm authentic NNEB qualifications.
-
Lost Certificate Support – assisting collegians to trace or verify their original certificates.
-
Promoting NNEBs to Employers – talking to nursery chains about the benefits of employing qualified NNEBs.
-
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.
-
Supporting Further Education – guiding collegians through university applications. It’s never too late to learn new skills or explore a new direction in life!
-
Helping Fill Childcare Roles – connecting the industry with experienced NNEBs.
-
Launching Our 80th Anniversary Badge – a beautiful keepsake loved by all.
-
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.
-
Assisting with Enquiries – we’ve answered hundreds of emails from around the globe, including from people seeking information or replacement certificates even if they weren’t NNEB qualified!
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
13th June 2025
Dear NNEB Collegians,
Lost NNEB Certificates Issued Before 1994
If you have lost your original NNEB certificate, we may be able to provide a Verification of Qualification Certificate as evidence of your achievement. More information here.
Please note that we are unable to issue replicas of the original certificates, as the National Nursery Examination Board no longer exists and, sadly, many of its members are no longer with us.
We do hold a number of year lists for those who qualified under the NNEB, which may assist in the verification process.
Further details regarding how to request a verification certificate is available here.
Please begin gathering any of the following documents or supporting evidence you may have to assist with your verification:
-
Pass card
-
Examination admission leaflet showing your centre and candidate numbers
-
A photograph or copy of your original certificate, if available
-
Your candidate number
-
College reports or references
-
A letter of confirmation from a fellow NNEB graduate or former college lecturer
-
A letter of confirmation from a former employer or local authority confirming your qualification
We look forward to supporting our fellow NNEBs in confirming and celebrating your professional history.
Warm regards,
The National Nursery Examination Board Old Collegians
21st May 2025
Dear NNEBs,
Re: Lost NNEB Certificates 1945 - 1993
Over the years, we at NNEB OC HQ have explored numerous avenues in an effort to trace the records of those who qualified as NNEBs prior to 1994, when CACHE assumed responsibility and eventually discontinued the NNEB qualification. Unfortunately, these efforts have been unsuccessful.
We recently contacted Ofqual to enquire whether we might issue replacement certificates following a careful and thorough vetting process for claimants. However, Ofqual has informed us that:
“Only recognised awarding organisations can issue a certificate for an Ofqual-regulated qualification. As NNEB has never been recognised by Ofqual, you cannot issue any certificates that infer the qualification is recognised or regulated by Ofqual.”
They further advised:
“You may be able to discuss with an Ofqual-regulated awarding organisation whether there is any way learners can use recognition of prior learning towards a current qualification. However, you must speak with the awarding organisations directly.”
This is the current situation if you have lost your NNEB certificate.
We have now reached the end of this journey and, regrettably, will not be providing any further assistance in this matter.
Please note that those of you that do have your NNEB certificate, it is still a full and relevant level 3 Nursery Nurse qualification on the UK Government Childcare Qualification Checker.
Anyone that qualified from 1994 with CACHE should contact CACHE for a certificate replacement.
9th May 2025
We kindly request that you do not contact us regarding lost certificates at this time. Please be assured that we are diligently working to establish a solution for the replacement of lost NNEB certificates.
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.
27th April 2024
Dear NNEB’s,
This year, I'm foregoing the traditional newsletter in favour of this direct message to you all.
The National Nursery Examination Board (NNEB) childcare and education diploma remains a prestigious and comprehensive Level Three qualification, widely regarded as the Gold Standard in the field. Its accreditation is reaffirmed by its inclusion in the UK government's qualification checker, under Microsoft Excel document number 52. Any uncertainties regarding its validity can be resolved by referring to this document via this link https://www.gov.uk/guidance/early-years-qualifications-finder. Notably, when inquiring about Maths and English grades, it's important to note that NNEB candidates were assessed comprehensively in these areas as part of the NNEB entrance requirements.
Today, NNEB graduates occupy diverse and influential roles across the childcare spectrum, ranging from maternity nurses and nursery school teachers to policy makers and nursery management professionals. Their expertise extends to roles as nannies, community health visitors, college lecturers, trainers, assessors, night nannies, doulas, intervention workers, newborn care specialists, and beyond. This widespread recognition and demand for NNEB qualifications, both domestically and internationally, underscore the enduring legacy of the NNEB qualification.
Originally offered through private colleges such as Norland Nannies and Princess Christian, as well as state colleges across the UK and some overseas institutions, the NNEB certification continues to hold significant relevance and value.
Let there be no doubt: NNEB graduates are highly sought after in today's workforce. We remain actively engaged in a multitude of childcare and education settings, catering to children from birth onward, and will continue to do so for many years to come.
The 1st May marks International NNEB Day, a day designated by the members of the NNEB OC group to celebrate our esteemed Gold Standard qualification annually. On this occasion, we express gratitude to the founders who paved the way for our careers, equipping us with the skills and opportunities to nurture, educate, and care for children over the decades.
Looking ahead, next year will mark the 80th Anniversary of the National Nursery Examination Board - NNEB. If anyone wishes to help organise a celebration to commemorate this significant milestone, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I will help spread the word through the NNEB Old Collegian Page and Facebook group. Your ideas and suggestions are welcome and can be shared in the comments.
Additionally, there are several groups available for NNEB graduates to join and engage with, along with a dedicated Facebook page, website, and The Maternity Nurse Magazine featuring contributions from fellow NNEB professionals.
We welcome any help and collaborations from our peers on any of the groups, pages, NNEB OC website and The Maternity Nurse Magazine. Please get in touch.
Warm regards,
Your fellow collegians.
Please like and follow the page -
https://www.facebook.com/NATIONALNURSERYEXAMINATIONBOARDOLDCOLLEGEGIANS
https://www.facebook.com/groups/nneboc/?ref=share_group_link&exp=9594
Please like and follow the page -
https://www.facebook.com/thematernitynursemagazine
N.N.E.B National Nursery Examination Board (Good Old Nursery nurse) FB Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1609536982749488
NNEB nursery nurses FB Group