How much would a nursery nurse get paid in the Victorian times?
In Victorian times, nursery nurses were responsible for the care and upbringing of children in wealthy households. They typically lived in the homes of their employers and worked long hours, often seven days a week. Wages for nursery nurses varied depending on the size and wealth of the household, as well as the experience and skills of the nurse.
According to an 1888 report by the Association for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge, the average wage for a nursery nurse in London was between £15 and £25 per year. This is equivalent to around £1,800 to £3,000 in today's money. However, some nursery nurses could earn as much as £50 per year, while others might only receive £10 or less.
In addition to their wages, nursery nurses were often provided with food and lodging by their employers. They might also receive a small allowance for clothing and other expenses. Some nursery nurses were also given bonuses or gratuities, especially if they worked for a particularly wealthy or generous family.
Despite the long hours and hard work, being a nursery nurse was considered a respectable and rewarding profession in Victorian times. Many nursery nurses went on to become governesses or teachers, and some even married into wealthy families.