Nannies
Nannies (sometimes referred to as home childcarers) look after children of any age in your own home. They:
- can live in or work set hours
- may care for one family or share between 2 families
- help with school runs, meals, homework, and bedtime
- are employed by you and you are responsible for tax, pension, and employment rights
They can look after children from 2 families at the same time, but they must care for them in the home of one of the children. If a nanny is shared by more than 2 families then this is considered childminding and they will need to register with Ofsted.
Nannies do not have to register with Ofsted, but they can choose to by joining the Voluntary Register. This is necessary if you want to claim Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit childcare.
Au pairs
An au pair is a person who works for and lives with a host family. Most au pairs are between 18 and 30 years old. They stay with a local host family and learn the language and culture in exchange for accommodation and pay.
Helping to take care of the host family's children is the main responsibility of an au pair. This typically involves everyday tasks like playing with the children, helping with homework, bringing the kids to school and kindergarten or preparing simple meals.
The au pair and host family should discuss the au pair’s duties and other important aspects of the stay before the placement begins. Details such as working hours, free days per week and babysitting evenings should be clearly agreed upon.
If you employ an au pair to work in your home, you must be aware of the employment requirements.
They:
- usually work up to 30 hours a week
- support school-age children with light care and household tasks
- are not qualified childcare workers
- should not be left alone with babies or very young children
Au pairs are not eligible to join the Ofsted Voluntary Childcare Register.