IRISH nannies are becoming real-life Mary Poppins as they charm their way into the hearts of British families.

A great work ethic and overall sense of fun means Irish nannies are sought out by overseas families including high-profile clients in London according to a leading Irish Agency.

Jenny Campbell, manager of Dublin-based Executive Nannies, said: "People want Irish nannies because of the Irish personality.

"They are easy-going, tend to fit in easily and are good fun."

"But in the end it comes down to the personality."

The role of a nanny has progressed significantly in the last few years.

Now professional nannies can earn anywhere between €500-1,000 per week on top of benefits like holidays, mobile phones and cars, depending on experience. And an estimated one-in10 Irish nannies on the Executive Nannies books are now working with families in Britain.

According to Ms Campbell the progression of the nanny role from vocation to profession has helped made Irish nannies more desirable.

Ms Campbell said: "We call them career nannies — grade A nannies.

"They are very flexible and seem to slot in well with families.

"They are more focused and they end up staying in the role longer."

As a result of their success Executive Nannies are opening a branch of their agency in London this summer. About 85 per cent of the company’s business comes through word-of-mouth so they are reliant on the performance of their nannies — nine-in-10 of whom are Irish — and they haven't disappointed.

But it's not just overseas that Irish nannies are successful. Such is the demand for nannies in Ireland that Irish nannies now also have their pick of jobs at home.

Extract from Irish Post, 2 Apr 2008