Sydney - 2016 Demi Pair Program
DEMI PAIR PROGRAM
Overview
What is the Demi Pair program?
The Demi Pair program combines Intensive English classes (General English, Academic English,Business English, IELTS and Cambridge preparation) whilst at the same time helping out an Australian family with childcare and light housework assistance. In exchange for those services, the student will be offered accommodation, meals (full board) and usually a weekly living allowance. Occasionally, different arrangements are made between family and student. Students will attend daily English classes at Access and follow a regular timetable from Monday to Friday (8:30am – 12:50pm, 9:40am – 2:30pm or 9:40 – 12:50pm). Students may start their English course any Monday during the year. In the afternoons students will return to their Demi Pair families to look after the children and perform light housekeeping duties.
Who can apply for this program?
Students between 18 and 35 years who have substantial experience in working with children (a minimum of two checkable references are required to verify this), and who possess at least a pre-intermediate English level (pre-intermediate students are required to undertake a minimum of 12 weeks of General English prior to commencing the program). A valid driver’s licence, First Aid Certificates, childcare diplomas, etc. are all strong points for potential candidates. Applicants are required to take a pre-enrolment English entry test and, in some cases, a phone interview with the Director of Studies; this will help us ascertain that they are the right level for the program.
This program requires maturity, strong communication skills, common sense, goodwill, flexibility, motivation and responsibility from the student. Initiative needs to be taken within the family. The student will also need to be able to adapt to and comply with the family rules.
Full applications need to be received at least 3 months in advance. The search for families will begin only once the student has been accepted in the program and all documentation has been received.
Type of work required
Students will be required to work between 15 and 25 hours per week for their Demi Pair family. The working hours and tasks will vary according to each family’s needs, with an average of 4-5 hours The Demi Pair program revolves around the family life. Childcare duties may include getting kids ready for school, either dropping them off or picking them up from school, organising activities, preparing snacks and dinner, ensuring homework is completed, bedtime and bathing preparation.
Light housework may include laundry, cleaning, ironing, cooking, washing, grocery shopping etc.
