An Aupair is normally a single person aged between 17 and 27, without dependant relatives, who would like to live and work as part of a family in order to gain knowledge of the language and culture of the host nation. The period of employment may be as short as the Summer Holidays, or up to two years, the norm being between six months and a year.

For a weekly allowance equivalent to about £55 (or slightly more in a capital city) the Aupair is expected to work around 25 hours per seek, over a five day period, including two nights babysitting. Own room and meals are part of the weekly allowance.

An Aupair Plus works more than 25 hours, the exact time to be agreed before commencement of employment, for extra money. An Aupair Plus MUST be from an EU country.

The duties and responsibilities of an Aupair:

During the period of work, the Aupair may be asked to help with normal domestic work as well as looking after children. This should be agreed before the commencement of employment. Remember, and Aupair is a working guest, and not a paid servant.

The host family may ask that the Aupair contributes towards expenses incurred, such as telephone costs, or personal use of a car.

Termination of the agreement is normally by two weeks notice either way. Should the host family require immediate termination, two weeks' allowance in lieu of notice is the norm.

Travel to and from the host country is the responsibility of the Aupair, as would be any fees for language or other classes attended in the host country.

The responsibilities of the host family:

The Aupair should be treated as part of the family, as a working guest, and certainly not as a servant.

Warm, comfortable and private sleeping accommodation must be provided.

The Aupair should work 25 hours over five days, including two nights babysitting. Additional hours or babysitting should be agreed and fairly paid.

Time off in addition to the agreed two days, should be given for language education.

The Aupair should be met on first arrival at an agreed international terminal within the host country. Onward travel to the host's home is at the family's expense.

Termination of the agreement is normally by two weeks notice either way. Should the host family require immediate termination, two weeks' allowance in lieu of notice is the norm.

Further useful information:

Aupairs may come to the UK from all EU countries, though for entry from some, a visa is required. Aupairs coming from Australia, New Zealand and Canada may enter the country on a working holiday visa. Some countries are excluded from the Aupair programme.

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