When writing to a prospective family you should always remember that you are writing to a prospective employer and therefore it is very important that you make the right impression.

Usually an Au Pair is required because both parents work and need help running the children to and from school and also to stay with them until the parents return from work in the evening. They will want someone who is responsible and mature enough to be left on their own in the home with the children and capable to cope with anything that may happen. Your relationship with the children will be very important to them. They will want someone who loves children, enjoys their company, but also someone experienced in childcare. Someone who will entertain and have fun with the children but who will also be firm with them when necessary. They will also want an Au Pair who is happy to help with housework.

You should start your letter with "Dear Family". Write about your family background (i.e. occupations of parents, brothers and sisters), say something about the area you live in, population etc. Give details of your schooling and in particular any subjects concerning childcare, cooking and housekeeping. If you have worked with children previously give details of the children's ages, the activities done with the children and other responsibilities associated with the position. Then say something about yourself.

Give details of your interests and hobbies and also say something about your personality - but remember you are writing to a future employer so only say positive things about yourself. You should say why you want to come to England and what you hope to do in the future.

The letter should be at least two pages, written in the language of your host family's country, be in your own handwriting and in black ink and most importantly, readable! Please do not ask anyone to write it for you, it will lead us to believe your language skills are better than they might be.

After you have written your letter, use a scanner to create a jpg image file and then upload it to your profile.

Your letter, references and medical certificate are treated as confidential and are only disclosed to host families who are registered with us.