‘Extraordinary’ Nanny Borrallo SHIFT In The Wales Family During Catherine’s Health Recovery

Meet the Cambridge’s Royal Nanny: Maria Teresa Teron Balo

Maria Teresa Teron Balo, the Royal Nanny for Prince William and Princess Catherine’s children, has been a cherished member of the family since Prince George was just 8 months old. Now, 10 years later, Maria remains a key part of the household, helping care for their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

While the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are known for being hands-on parents, their demanding schedules, combined with Princess Catherine’s recent recovery from cancer, have made Maria’s role increasingly crucial. As the children now spend much of their week at Lambrook School in Berkshire, Maria’s role continues to evolve. Though gone are the days of nappy changes and weaning, she now juggles the trio’s extracurricular activities, homework, and after-school schedules, ensuring they have the support they need outside school hours.

Maria’s professional background is exceptional. She trained at Norland College in Bath, one of the most prestigious institutions for professional childcare. Graduates of Norland College are highly regarded in their field, with newly qualified nannies earning salaries of up to £42,000 per year for non-residential positions, and those with experience making as much as £120,000 annually. Admission to this renowned 15,000-pound-a-year program requires a minimum of three C’s at A-level and a deep passion for childcare.

The training at Norland College is described as a blend of Mary Poppins and James Bond, equipping students with a wide range of skills, from self-defense and martial arts to getaway driving. Although Maria no longer resides with the Cambridge family, she remains a significant presence in the children’s lives.

Originally from Placencia, Spain, Maria is beloved by the family. However, there’s one word she reportedly avoids using in front of the children: “kid.” The term is considered disrespectful, as the family prefers to treat the children as individuals. Maria’s approach to childcare aligns with Norland’s core principles, including the importance of daily outdoor play, strict limits on screen time, and a no-shouting policy.

Teaching children to be independent is also a key part of Maria’s role. She likely encourages Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis to do things for themselves, in line with Norland’s values. Interestingly, the royal children have broken with tradition by learning Spanish, instead of the typically favored French. This decision is believed to be influenced by Maria, who speaks Spanish as her first language. Prince George, at just 9 years old, can already count to ten in Spanish.

Maria’s bond with the children has been integral to their upbringing. She was responsible for capturing the iconic photograph of Prince George peeking out of the window during the Trooping the Colour parade in 2015. She was also there to comfort 2-year-old Zally Warren, one of the youngest bridesmaids at the royal wedding, when she was feeling overwhelmed. Maria even rode with Princess Charlotte in the car on the way to St. George’s Chapel for the ceremony.

The tradition of hiring nannies from Norland College has been longstanding in the royal family. Other members, including Princess Anne, King Charles, and Prince Harry, also had Norland-trained nannies who formed lasting relationships with the royal children. For example, Helen Lightbody, who cared for King Charles after his birth in 1948, was such a close figure in his life that he invited her to his 21st birthday party and his investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969.

Maria, like those who came before her, has become an important figure in the lives of the Cambridge children, providing not just care, but a sense of consistency and love that continues to play a vital role in their royal upbringing.