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For 130 years, Norland nannies have been known for two things: their traditional Mary Poppins-style uniforms and their unflinching discretion.

Now Norland College, which trains the elite nannies to care for children of the rich and famous, has made a concession to modern sensibilities by introducing a gender-neutral option to its strict dress code. 

While female pupils had been expected to wear a dress and male pupils trousers, all students can now opt for trousers, along with the traditional tweed blazer or raincoat.

Even male nannies are a relatively new innovation for the college, with its first graduates in 2018.

Now Norland College, which trains the elite nannies to care for children of the rich and famous, has made a concession to modern sensibilities by introducing a gender-neutral option to its strict dress code

While female pupils had been expected to wear a dress and male pupils trousers, all students can now opt for trousers, along with the traditional tweed blazer or raincoat

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Principal Dr Janet Rose said: ‘As our student body has become increasingly diverse, we have adapted the uniform to be more inclusive with a new gender- neutral option.

‘I remain dedicated to ensuring Norland is an inclusive environment, open to all.’

Students are expected to wear the uniform throughout their three-year childcare course in Bath, which also includes lessons in self-defence, security training, evasive driving and – a must for celebrity clients – paparazzi avoidance skills.

While in the uniform, students must not chew gum, listen to music through headphones, buy fast food or alcohol or use a phone while walking.

Many continue to wear their uniform when they start working, either by personal choice or at the insistence of their employer, keen to show off the kudos of having a Norland nanny – which can cost them up to £100,000 a year. 

Despite the high salaries, Dr Rose said demand for Norland nannies is higher than ever, with 14 jobs available for each one who qualifies.

Those who have graduated from the college include Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, who has been nanny for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge since 2014, and Ulrika Jonsson’s daughter, Bo, who qualified last week.

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