Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Au pairing
Being an au pair is a good way to immerse yourself in a different culture, learn a new lan-
guage and hopefully save some extra cash. You don't need any qualifications to be an au
pair, although obviously some experience with children is a bonus. However, au pairing is a
hard job and a big responsibility and you may well have to pass the equivalent of a Disclos-
ure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
In return for board, lodgings and pocket money, you'll be expected to look after the children
and do light domestic chores like ironing, cooking, tidying their bedrooms and doing their
washing, for up to five hours a day (six hours in France or Germany), five days a week, as
well as spending two or three evenings a week babysitting. If you are asked to work more
than this then technically you are not doing the work of an au pair, but of a mother's help
(which pays more).
Remember that an au pair is classified as 'non-experienced', and you should never be left in
sole charge of a baby. If the family gives you more responsibility than you can handle say
so. If they don't stop - quit.
Finding an au pair agency
It may be safest to look for a placement through a UK-based au pair agency. It's also better
for the prospective family abroad, since they will be dealing with an agency (possibly work-
ing together with an agency in the family's own country) that has met you, interviewed you
and taken up references; they will want reassurance before they trust you with their children.
What you should check:
•
Does the agency you use have connections with another agency in the country
where you'll be working?
•
Can they give you a list of other local au pairs so you'll have support when you're
out there?
•
Take time finding a suitable family. The fewer children the better, and you should
expect your own room.
•
What is there to do in your free time? You don't want to spend every weekend in
your bedroom because you're stuck in the middle of nowhere.
•
Do you get written confirmation of the hours, duties and pay agreed?
•
The number and address of the local British Consulate - just in case.
