THE AU PAIR PROGRAMME
The Au Pair programme is in essence a cultural exchange programme. In practice, Au Pairs are often characterised as a foreign - national domestic assistant, working for and living as part of a host family. The Au pair shares some responsibilities for childcare, as well as some housekeeping duties, and in return, receives a small amount of money for personal use.
While the profile of the Au Pair has changes in recent years in the UK (increasingly Au Pairs come from all parts of Eastern Europe, as well as from France, Spain and Italy), the role of the Au Pair hasn't fundamentally changed. Arguably, more families in the UK make use of the Au Pair programme than a decade ago or longer.
But what should be clear is the Au Pair is not a domestic worker, or domestic servant.
While the profile of the Au Pair has changes in recent years in the UK (increasingly Au Pairs come from all parts of Eastern Europe, as well as from France, Spain and Italy), the role of the Au Pair hasn't fundamentally changed. Arguably, more families in the UK make use of the Au Pair programme than a decade ago or longer.
But what should be clear is the Au Pair is not a domestic worker, or domestic servant.
The French term, "au pair" means 'on a par' or 'equal to'. The Au Pair is, therefore, meant to be part of the family, not a domestic servant.
This part of the website provides an overview of what an Au Pair is. There are several "categories" or types of Au Pair, which define the hours and duties an Au Pair performs. There are prevailing restrictions of who can be an Au Pair - the programme is regulated and is not open to all countries.
Of course, every Au Pair has a different style and approach to becoming an Au Pair. There is not a blue print for the ideal Au Pair, but there are a number of characteristics which underpin what makes a good Au Pair.
This part of the website provides an overview of what an Au Pair is. There are several "categories" or types of Au Pair, which define the hours and duties an Au Pair performs. There are prevailing restrictions of who can be an Au Pair - the programme is regulated and is not open to all countries.
Of course, every Au Pair has a different style and approach to becoming an Au Pair. There is not a blue print for the ideal Au Pair, but there are a number of characteristics which underpin what makes a good Au Pair.
Au Pair Programme: Live In Au pairs UK: Sussex, Kent, Surrey, London