Next year, you really want to get a change of scenery, take a sabbatical year to rest and learn a new language. The problem is that you don't know where to go or how to do it.
We have a great solution for you! Why don't you be an au pair in London? Also, you should know that even though we say "au pair", it is also open to boys. So whether you are a boy or a girl, get ready for a unique adventure!
Au pair in London: what is it exactly?
If you like to travel, you will surely enjoy this experience. As an au pair in London, you will be able to travel at any time of the year for a minimum of two months and a maximum of two years with a host family. This host family will accommodate you throughout your trip, where you will be fed and housed. Your main job will be to take care of the children of the family, taking them to school or nursery, playing with them, but also doing some household chores (preparing food, tidying up, ironing clothes etc). In return, you will receive pocket money, and you can do what you want with your free time. In concrete terms, you will be totally immersed in the London culture, and being in London will allow you to develop your English speaking skills much faster than if you were at school. Generally, au pairs returning from London are bilingual. Quite interesting, considering that English is the most spoken language in the world, isn't it?Au Pair in London: How to apply
"It's true that I'm attracted to it, but how do I do it now"? Don't worry, we'll explain it to you right away.Two solutions to find an au pair family
There are two main ways to guide you in this process. First, you can use an au pair placement agency, which will help you find a family. The advantage of this option is that this agency will take care of the administrative side of things, while meeting your expectations, but also helping you if you have any problems with your host family in London. This is a complete follow-up that usually reassures you and your parents. Nevertheless, you will have to pay a fee, around 300€. Secondly, you can choose your family via an au pair family search portal. The cost is only around 10 euros, but this solution is more risky than the first one. Indeed, you will choose your family on your own, there will be no file follow-up, you will take care of the steps alone, and if there is a problem with your family, you will be left to your own devices. Since you will be going alone to a foreign country, it is preferable to choose the first solution, to avoid any unpleasant surprises.Admission requirements to become an au pair
A few conditions are required to be accepted. In particular, you will have to:- be between 18 and 27 years of age maximum
- have some experience in childcare
- be self-sufficient and non-smoking
- be a citizen of the European Union
- have a minimum knowledge of English to communicate with the family
- optionally have a permit, which will make traveling easier