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Are you looking to study English in London or live abroad for a year? Do you want to sample another culture or attend an English school London or a French school in Paris?

One year ago, I answered “yes” to the last question (not the one to study English in London - that's where I came from in the first place!), and I’ve been living and working in Paris as an au pair ever since. I wanted to travel, to experience life in a foreign city, and to improve my French. I’ve been able to realise all these dreams. Many young girls – and even boys – are able to live in the United Kingdom or Europe as nannies, helping families with their children in exchange for accommodation and a cash living allowance. It makes otherwise expensive cities affordable for young people and students, and provides a great experience getting to know your new family!

But there is some advice I’d like to give anyone considering becoming an overseas nanny. I would never try to talk anyone out of becoming an au pair, but there are some things that you need to keep in mind as you prepare to depart on this new adventure.

I was lucky in finding my French family, as they had lived in London for many years and they are all perfectly bilingual in English and French. If this is not the case, you need to think about how many things might be lost in translation. Sure, you’ll be studying the native language of the country while you’ll be living there, but just keep in mind it can be tricky communicating at first. There might be headaches of translations or misunderstanding at first – but it’s all part of the challenge! Your new family will be more than understanding and accommodating of the effort you’re making for your French or English translation. Think of it as all part of the fun – or an extra homework exercise from your Paris French class or English course London!

Remember also that many families have a new au pair every year, so don’t despair if the children take longer than expected to warm to you. While the families make every effort to adopt their new nanny into the family, sometimes this can be hard on the family too – as just as they get attached to someone, they return to their home country! I found this more difficult than any issues with French bureaucracy or translation services actually – because at first all the children told me was how much they missed their last nanny! I didn’t really feel comfortable, especially when they were tired or grumpy, with them telling me how much more fun she was, or how much nicer she was – but everything is fine between us now. I just wonder what they’ll tell their next nanny about me! Fingers crossed it’s something nice!

Being with the children day in, day out is another thing too. I had always fancied myself as being pretty good with children, but that was always with my cousins or the children of friends – in other words, children you only see infrequently and when they’re on their best or most charming behaviour! It’s definitely fascinating to watch their young personalities develop, but watch out – not only do you get to see the children at their cutest; you’ll also have to disarm them when they’re on the warpath! I’m pretty confident that my skills of negotiation have improved within a few short months… after this, even United Nations diplomatic peace missions should be a piece of cake!

I think the most important and positive reason for becoming an au pair is the warmth of the personal experience you have whilst you study English London or whichever language in your country of choice. My life is currently full of homework (both mine and the children’s!), translation services, Paris museums, enjoying French food and relishing in French culture. I’d recommend it to anyone!