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We are Bene (French) and Mike (English) and have a family of 3 children aged 0, 4 and 7. We have a reasonably large house and garden in a small French village located about 45 minutes from saint-Etienne.
Mike is a Marine Engineer by profession and works away from home for 8 weeks at a time for a total of 6 months a year, hence the need for a little help at home!
Language practice
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Babysitting and creative play
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
We would hope that the volunteer would like to spend a lot of time with the family, both at home and out and about. We believe that experiencing everyday life is the best way to learn and understand a culture.
You would have direct exposure to the French language and can be taught some key conversational phrases.
We have a well equipped workshop and range of materials if you feel inclined to get creative and If you came during the time that Mike is home, you may pick up a few handy technical skills.
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
The help required would depend on the volunteer as we value each persons own unique contribution and skill set. Any help to alleviate the general workload is appreciated.
Whether you are more comfortable to occasionally cook and help take care of the kids while helping with chores around the house or you are more inclined to carry out maintenance and assist with our little projects either inside the house or out, we can certainly find something to suit.
The help required might also depend on whether Mike is home or not as he may well ask for an assistant on one of his many home improvement projects!
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
There is a spare bedroom at the top of the house with a lovely countryside view. There is also access to a private shower room/toilet.
Public transport is limited but we are not adverse to giving a lift into town occasionally. Otherwise, and if you have a driving licence, we can offer use of a car if not going too far.
nearby there are some beautiful towns such as saint-bonnet-le-chateau and le-puy-en-velay as well as quite a few outdoor centers.
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Not likely to struggle for space.
Two
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week