In the realm of royal security, the protection afforded to the royal family is renowned worldwide for its excellence.
Amidst the array of guards and defenses, there is one individual within Prince George’s security detail who shines not for her armor or weapons, but for her exceptional training and unwavering commitment.
Meet Maria Teresa Torino Borrello, the silent sentinel, whose unique skills and dedication have solidified her position as an indispensable member of the household of the Prince and Princess of Wales since 2014.
Maria’s association with the royal family traces back to when Prince George was a mere 8 months old.
Employed by Prince William and Princess Catherine, she has been a constant presence in the lives of George and his siblings.
Yet, Maria is no ordinary nanny – she is a Norland nanny, a distinction synonymous with excellence and rigorous preparation.
Hailing from Norland College in Bath, Somerset, Maria underwent training renowned for its esteemed childcare program, attracting individuals destined to serve royalty and celebrities alike.
The curriculum at Norland College transcends conventional boundaries, encompassing a spectrum from traditional childcare practices to advanced security protocols.
Officially endorsed by Norland College, the training regimen includes specialized security modules conducted by former military intelligence officers, equipping nannies with the skills to navigate online safety and mitigate potential security threats.
Far from being a typical nanny academy, Norland serves as a crucible for grooming top-tier professionals.
Maria, alongside her peers, has undergone self-defense training under the tutelage of a distinguished 7th-degree black belt in Taekwondo.
This comprehensive training ensures that she not only nurtures the children under her care but also shields them from harm when faced with perilous situations.
The training does not conclude there; Norland nannies are also trained in skid-pan driving, mastering the art of controlling a vehicle under diverse circumstances, including adverse weather conditions and distractions within the car.
Embarking on the journey to become a Norland nanny demands substantial commitment.
It necessitates the completion of a three-year full-time BA honours degree in early years development and learning, incorporating modules such as promoting health and wellbeing, deciphering children’s behavior, and engaging with families and communities.
For those aspiring to delve deeper, an optional fourth year offers the opportunity to pursue the Norland Diploma, delving into areas like communication in practice, nutrition, play and learning, and sewing.
The distinctive uniforms donned by Norland nannies serve as a testament to their heritage and professionalism, a tradition upheld since 1892.
These uniforms range from formal attire for college events to practical outfits for training and practical placements.
Maria has been spotted in this iconic attire at various official family gatherings, including Prince Charlotte’s Christening, underscoring her pivotal role within the royal household.
Maria Teresa Torino Borrello’s presence in the lives of Prince George and his siblings transcends mere childcare; her advanced training and unwavering dedication render her a stalwart guardian and a beloved figure within the royal family.
While the world often fixates on the overt security measures surrounding the royals, it is individuals like Maria, the silent sentinels, who truly safeguard their safety and well-being.
