| 1. | I want to be an aupair in Ireland, how does it work?
There are several steps that you must take. The most important thing is to read and understand all of the information on this webpage.
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| 2. | You say that you have ‘screened’ families what does that mean?
It means that we have visited all our families and in the past and aupairs were happy and had a good experience, it gives you re-assurance that the family is not just anybody. |
| 3. | How much do you charge to look for a family for me?
There is a registration fee of €200 which is payable once you have confirmed you are happy with your family and you have booked your flights. |
| 4. | How can I apply?
Click here for an application and information pack
Don’t forget to read all the steps that are needed first! |
| 5. | What will happen once I fill in the aupair application form?
We will begin looking for a suitable family as soon as we have received a copy of your profile. We will match your details and requirements with a family that we feel will work. Their details are then sent to you and they or you will call. Then if both you and the families are happy you confirm with the agency and we confirm with the family. It’s that easy! |
| 6. | How do I send my photos, reference and other information?
You must send the originals by post but you must first attach them to an email. |
| 7. | Can I send details by post/fax/email?
Yes: Our postal address is:
1 Clarinda Park North, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, Irelan
Fax: 353 1 2844675
Phone: 353 1 2844675 |
| 8. | Will I be interviewed by the agency?
When necessary we will email you and call you for details however most of the interviews are done by the families. |
| 9. | Do I need to have childcare experience?
You should have at least some basic childcare experience i.e. babysitting or looking after younger relatives, but you do not need any formal training or qualifications. |
| 10. | How old should I be?
At least 18. |
| 11. | Are there any basic conditions that I must meet?
Please read the Terms and Conditions to make sure you are aware of exactly what is expected from an Au Pair. |
| 12. | Do I need a driving licence?
No, although if you do have one and are prepared to drive you will have a wider choice of families. |
| 13. | How much money will I get?
This will depend on how many hours you work:
Aupair Companion: This means that the Aupair is in the company of an adult most of the time, normally the mother of the children. She works a 30 hour week and is asked to baby-sit two evenings per week (never more than one evening at the weekend) she has two afternoons and evenings free, plus a day off at the weekend. She receives pocket money of €90 per week.
Aupair Minder: In this case the mother is working part-time, so the Aupair is totally responsible for the children for up to 35 hours per week. Free time is the same for the Aupair Companion. Pocket money is €100 per week.
Aupair Plus: This is where the mother is working full-time so the Aupair is responsible for the children while the mother is away at work. She has, however, only one evening of baby-sitting per week and normally has the whole weekend free. She receives €115 per week |
| 14. | How much free time will I have?
Two afternoons and evenings, plus one day at the weekend or two days at the weekend but you may be expected to babysit at the weekend. |
| 15. | How much will language classes cost?
€100 per month |
| 16. | Who pays for my travel and other expenses?
You are responsible for your travel to and from the family and any other expenses you may have during your stay (for example phone, classes etc) |
| 17. | Will I get any holiday?
For every 6 months that you work you are entitled to one week paid holiday. |
| 18. | How long will it take to find a family?
This depends on what kind of family you are looking for. The better your application the faster and better chance you have in finding a family. It is worth while spending time on your application!
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| 19. | Can I choose which family I go to?
Yes. Family availability varies throughout the year so sometimes there will be a more limited pool to choose from. If you have a strong application you will have more choice either way.
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| 20. | What will the family provide?
At the minimum a private bedroom and full board (all meals, use of facilities in the house), time off to attend classes and of course to be treated as a member of the family. |
| 21. | Can I find a summer placement?
Yes. Please see our Summer Placement Programme for prices and information. |
| 22. | What if I have problems when I am with the family?
You can contact us at any time before or during your placement. We can advise you if you have any problems, speak to the family on your behalf and if necessary look for a new family for you. |
| 23. | Do I need a visa?
If you think you require a visa please email us for more information.
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| 24. | Do you have any families looking now?
We always have families looking for Au Pairs! Please email us for more information. |
| 25. | Do I need insurance, and if so who pays for it?
Whether or not you decide to get insurance, is up to you. However, it will be at your expense. |
| 26. | What duties will I be expected to do?
Childcare of all kinds, dressing, bathing, entertaining, simple meals, babysitting and helping with homework. You will also be expected to undertake light housework, which may include washing, cleaning, ironing, dusting, hovering, simple cooking or other duties. For exact descriptions click here to see our Agreement Form. |
| 27. | I don’t want to do housework, is this a problem?
Families will expect you to do some housework, the amount of time you spend on this will vary from family to family but you must be prepared to do this. If you do not know how to do something ask the family, they will always help you to learn. |
| 28. | What do I need to take with me when I travel?
Your passport, driving licence any certificates or papers for travel and health insurance. Make sure you have the relevant phone numbers for your insurance companies. It is a good idea to carry all these documents on you or in your hand luggage along with the name, address and phone number of your host family (and our contact details of course). |
| 29. | Is there anything I need to inform the family of?
Any medical conditions, however minor, and any allergies. It is a good idea to write these down clearly along with any medication you take or are allergic to, and phone numbers where your parents or relatives can be contacted. |
| 30. | Can an aupair use the host family’s telephone?
Well, usually the host family will allow you to use the telephone once when you first arrive, to inform your family that you arrived safely.
Any other time, you need to ask the family if you can use the phone. |
