The American Institute for Foreign Study has introduced a new work and study programme in the USA for young people aged 18 to 26. Through the scheme, students may stay in the US for one year on a J-1 cultural exchange visa, studying at an American college or university for six hours a week while living with an American family and acting as a companion to the family’s school age children.  Participants provide up to 30 hours a week before and after school care, which could involve accompanying children to after-school activities, helping with homework, preparing meals, helping with daily chores. Subject areas offered by the colleges include business administration, marketing, media, arts and sciences.  Students receive free room and board, $105 a week together with full support services and an orientation programme near New York. The J-1 visa allows an optional 13th month during which students may travel in the US before returning home. Winter departures take place in December and summer departures in August. 

Details: EduCare in America, 37 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5HR, 020 7581 7363; educare@aifs.co.uk