Information for Families
You have children and you need a second pair of hands!
What is an Au Pair?
An Au Pair is a foreign student, single, between 17 and 27, who come to Britain to improve her/his level of English and become part of a British family. In exchange, the Au Pair will help with children and light household duties.
An Au Pair is not an employee, neither a trained or qualified child minder nor a domestic and therefore should be treated as a member of the family as much as possible. It's important for the family to be sympathetic towards the Au Pair, especially during the initial stages of the placement whilst she/he becomes accustomed to the new environment.
What are the Duties?
The Au Pair is expected to assist the family with the day to day running of the household; preparing the children's breakfast, getting them ready, taking and collecting from school, playing, helping with homework, taking to the park and activities. The Au Pair would also deal with the housework related to the children and cook their supper and give them bath. The Au Pair should be given full instruction about the duties before leaving his/her country. The Au Pair must be fully instructed before being left in charge of the children or household for any length of time.
What are the Costs?
Apart from boarding and lodging, the minimum pocket money is £55 per week. The standard working hours is 25; 5 hours, 5 days a week plus 2 evenings babysitting. EU candidates can work more hours for more money. i.e. £65.00 for 30 hours and £75.00 for 35 hours.
Free Time and English Classes
An Au Pair has 2 days off, normally the weekend in order to meet friends, go sightseeing, etc. plus daytime during the week to attend language classes. EFL classes are usually available 2 or 3 times a week. The cost is at the responsibility of the Au Pair; the family should assist with the enrollment. If the only available classes are more than 3 miles away, the family should help with travelling expenses.
Travel and Holidays
The Au Pair is responsible for the cost of the fare to and from his/her country. The Au Pair should be met at the airport or main line station. If a taxi is sent to collect the Au Pair, the family should pay for the journey.
It is normal for the Au Pair to return back home during the period of Christmas for 2 weeks.
We recommend the family gives the Au Pair 1 week paid leave after 6 months and 2 weeks if the Au Pair stays a year.
Our Placement Fees and Terms and Conditions
- Short Term: £175
- Long Term: £295
Please download and review our Terms of Business [PDF, 140Kb].
How do I Apply?
Please fill in our online application form.
You can also download our form and return via the post or email. Download our form in PDF or MS Word formats.
Questions?
Feel free to contact us with questions.