Au Pairs

Au Pairs are usually foreign students aged 17-27 years. They do not generally have childcare qualifications, so it is not a good idea for them to have sole charge of pre-school children. Au Pairs live as members of the family to learn English. They can work in the home for up to 5 hours per day in return for a room, an allowance and 2 full days off per week. 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.

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:

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.

An au pair can be really beneifical if children are of school age. The 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.

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