Royal nanny to Prince William and Kate's children honored with special medal

In a moment that quietly highlighted the people working behind the scenes of royal life, Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo—the longtime nanny to the children of Prince William and Catherine Middleton—was honored with the prestigious Silver Royal Victorian Medal. The award was presented on March 24 during a formal investiture ceremony in Windsor, with Prince William himself leading the recognition.

For more than a decade, Borrallo has been a constant and trusted presence in the lives of the royal children. She joined the household when Prince George was just eight months old and has since helped care for Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis as they grew up under the global spotlight. In a family where tradition meets modern scrutiny, her role has been both deeply personal and quietly essential.

The Silver Royal Victorian Medal is not a routine honor. It is awarded at the discretion of King Charles III to individuals who have provided exceptional personal service to the monarchy. Borrallo’s recognition reflects not only her years of dedication but also the level of trust placed in her within one of the most high-profile families in the world.

A key part of her expertise comes from her training at Norland College, widely regarded as the gold standard in professional childcare education. Located in Bath, Somerset, the institution has built a global reputation for producing elite nannies—often referred to as “Norlanders”—who go on to serve royalty, celebrities, and high-net-worth families around the world.

Founded in 1892 by Emily Ward, Norland College was revolutionary for its time. At a period when childcare was largely left to untrained domestic workers, Ward envisioned a new standard: trained professionals who combined affection, structure, and early childhood education. Her ideas were influenced by the work of Friedrich Frobel, whose philosophy emphasized the importance of nurturing young minds through structured learning and play.

More than 130 years later, that founding vision remains at the heart of Norland’s identity. The college blends tradition with modern science, ensuring its students are equipped not only with nurturing instincts but also with academic knowledge in areas like child psychology, neuroscience, nutrition, and early years development. Students complete a three-year BA (Hons) degree before earning the prestigious Norland Diploma through hands-on experience in real family settings.

What truly sets Norland apart, however, is the breadth of its training. Beyond childcare, students are prepared for the unique challenges that come with working in high-profile households. They learn advanced driving techniques, including skid control and evasive maneuvers, in case of paparazzi or security threats. Self-defense training is also part of the curriculum, with expert instructors teaching how to protect both themselves and the children in their care.

Even before stepping into real homes, students undergo rigorous practical preparation. They care for lifelike training dolls that simulate the demands of newborns—crying through the night and requiring constant attention. The goal is to ensure that graduates are fully prepared for the realities of childcare, especially in environments where expectations are exceptionally high.

Norland’s distinctive identity is also reflected in its iconic uniform. Originally introduced to distinguish trained nannies from household staff, the uniform has evolved over time but remains a symbol of professionalism and heritage. Today’s attire—complete with a brown dress, gloves, and bowler hat—signals both tradition and excellence, instantly recognizable in elite circles.

Over the decades, Norland has continued to evolve while maintaining its core values. It opened its doors to male students in 1999, reflecting a broader shift in perceptions around childcare roles. Today, its graduates work across the globe, often becoming indispensable members of the families they serve.

The college’s reputation has even reached popular culture. The documentary Nanny School offered a rare glimpse into the demanding and sometimes surprising world of Norland training, capturing public fascination and reinforcing its status as the pinnacle of professional childcare.

For the British royal family, Norland-trained nannies have become a trusted tradition. Borrallo’s role in raising the next generation of royals underscores the importance of expertise, discretion, and consistency in such a unique environment. Her recent recognition is not just a personal achievement but also a reflection of the standards upheld by the institution that trained her.

Ultimately, Norland nannies are far more than caregivers. They are educators, protectors, role models, and confidantes—professionals equipped to shape young lives while navigating the complexities of high-profile households. Borrallo’s award serves as a reminder that behind every public figure, especially within royal circles, there are dedicated individuals whose contributions, though often unseen, are invaluable.

In honoring her, the monarchy has also acknowledged the evolving role of childcare professionals—one that blends tradition, skill, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the next generation.