Nannies have played an important part in the life of the monarchy, and British royal children have often become very close to them – sometimes closer than they are to their parents. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have reportedly decided to break with centuries of tradition by choosing not to employ a full-time nanny for their child. Instead, they will rely on part-time help. Here’s a look back in time at the women employed to help raise the children of the British royals.
Royal Nurses, Nannies and Governesses Since 1948
Johnny Green / PA / AP
Olga Powell
Powell became chief nanny to William and Harry after the departure of Barbara Barnes. Upon learning of his parents’ split in 1992, William, aged 10 and attending prep school, wrote to Powell seeking consolation. She was credited with helping the two boys cope with the loss of their mother in 1997, and she wrote to Prince Harry while he was serving with the British Army in Afghanistan urging him to stay safe. In a 2011 interview, Powell said the princes were “like my own grandsons.”