Au Pairs

Au pairs are aged between 18-27 and their chief purpose for being in the country is to learn the language and assimilate the culture. An au pair lives with you and should be treated as part of the family. They earn board and lodging and a small amount of money each week in return for childcare and light housework. According to Home Office rules on the employment of au pairs (visit www.homeoffice.gov.uk) they should work for 25 hours per week and have two days off per week.

Here are some Au Pair Agencies:

www.abacusaupairagency.co.uk/

www.jobsafari.co.uk/jobs/aupair/wales/

www.premieraupair.co.uk/agents.htm

Qualifications: Au pairs have no formal training in caring for children and may have little or no experience.
Fees: Au pairs are paid approximately £55-60 per week.
Other Information:
  • An au pair can be really benefical if children are of school age. They can prepare the children for school and look after them afterwards.
  • Au pairs are an economical and, for many families with older children, very convenient way of lightening the load.
  • Au pairs only stay for about 6 months so you have to keep chopping and changing which can be disruptive to the household.
  • Au pairs often speak basic English and for many it is their first time away from home - so problems such as homesickness and loneliness have to be confronted.
  • If you have very young children an au pair isn't for you.

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