Why hiring Bluesky Aupairs and not using an on-line agency or platform?
The search for an Au Pair or a family through a web platform involves a lot of time and dedication, both for the Au Pair and the family. Most families do not have enough time to do this research work, year after year.
Some families do not really know the details of the Au Pair programme. Some Au Pairs do not really get involved when using a web platform. They just register to see how it works. (...)
The Au Pair only goes through the process once, but most families do it year after year.
By our own experience we know that some families get in touch with Au Pairs online and after a while the Au Pair disappears and the family have to start the process again from the beginning.
For you, Au Pairs, hiring Bluesky Au Pairs guarantees that families are well informed on the Au Pair programme. They will know exactly what to expect from you and your rights will be respected. Another important advantage is that once you have reached your destination you will not be on your own, as with an on-line agency. You can easily get in touch with us or visit our office in Madrid any time you want.
How long will my Au Pair experience last?
Au Pairs in Spain are mostly requested for periods of 6 to 10 months, during the school year.
There is also request of Au Pairs for the summer, for a period of 1 to 3 months.
Where exactly will I live?
Our host families live in Madrid or in other close towns. You will always be informed of the location of the family before you make your decision. It is important that you feel comfortable in your new house!!!
Do I need to have Spanish skills?
It is not required. You will learn Spanish while you are in Madrid. In some of our families the mother or father speaks your own language and this may help you, especially in the beginning.
Can I come with a friend?
Yes you can. We will try to place you in close families.
When shall I register?
We accept registrations any time of the year.
Do I need medical insurance?
Yes. You need to obtain European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and you will be entitled to some free National Health Service treatments. We also advise you to take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover travel, liability and medical costs.
What expenses will I have to hold when I am in Madrid?
Your host family will provide accommodation and meals, as well as weekly pocket money (70-80 euro). You will have to pay for the travel expenses and the Spanish lessons.
Do I need to have a driver’s licence?
Some families request it and some others do not. You should indicate in your application form whether you are willing to drive the family car or not.
Do I need to have a bank account?
No. The family will give you the pocket money cash. However, a credit card will be very useful to get special fares when buying travel tickets online.
What previous experience do I need to have on childcare?
¡The more you have the best! Any experience will be helpful. Having looked after the neighbours, your younger brothers and sisters, having worked as an instructor in a summer camp...
Can I attend a Spanish course?
It is definitely the best way to quickly learn or improve Spanish.
Will I have enough free time?
Yes you will. During your free time you will be able to go to Spanish lessons, visit many interesting places, have a coffee with your friends on a terrace or jus relax in one of Madrid’s beautiful parks. A great thing about Madrid is that it offers a lot both day and night.
Which are the possibilities of finding a host family?
If you have a nice personality and some experience on childcare we will definitely find a family for you. The more flexible you are the easier will be to find a family.
When will I meet the host family?
Once you send us the application form completed and pay the registration fee we will start looking for a family for you. As soon as we select one or more families, you will be able to contact them through Skype.
What should I expect from my host family?
They will take you in as a member of the family. You will not be treated as an employee, but as an older brother or sister, you will be given full board accommodation and will receive weekly pocket.
During the first week the family will talk to you about your duties, working hours and any other important information, and will help you get adapted to this new situation.
What will the host family expect from me?
Two things are very important for the families: the children’s care and the children learning your language.
Parents’ working hours in Spain are longer than in other countries, and it is difficult for them to look after the children without somebody’s help. They also want their children to learn a second language. These are the main reasons for which they take in an Au Pair.
Can I change family?
We always suggest both parties to give each other some time to get used to the new situation, and to establish good communication. It is important to speak about everything and to ask about all doubts, as many times as needed. When getting used to the new situation communication is the most important thing.
However, if problems arise and cannot be solved, we will do our best to help you find a new family.
What is the weather like in Madrid?
You will enjoy the sun all year long, even in wintertime, when temperatures get lower and it is a bit cold.
We suggest you the long stay September to July to be able to enjoy the summertime and the swimming pool.
How will I get to meet other people?
Bluesky Au Pairs will put you in touch with other Au Pairs in your area. Once in Madrid you will have many opportunities to meet people. We also organize Au Pair meetings regularly.
Who can I contact with once in Madrid?
With us!! We speak English, French and German. You can come to our office in Madrid any time you want. You will not be alone.