Au Pairing in Shanghai

I am writing this in my final week as an Au Pair in Shanghai, China. I have spent 3 months here, with Wanderlust Au Pair Agency China (WAC).
My decision to come to China was based on my desire to learn Mandarin Chinese and experience Chinese culture, before going to university. This I have certainly achieved!
As an au pair, you are immersed, often overwhelmingly, in culture. Living with a host family provides a unique insight into life in China, an experience that you just cannot get any other way!
Of course there are difficulties, and points where culture shock really hits hard. The important part is to view it all as a learning experience, and come through stronger. One example of this was that in my host family/household, I had to sleep in the kid's room (the kid slept with the mother). This presented certain issues, but in the end it was fine and it brought me closer to the family. One thing also to note is that in China Au Pairs are not viewed traditionally, and rather more as just English Teachers. You are likely to be expected to teach up to 6 hours of proper lessons each working day. However, if you are lucky (as I was), these days will be flexible and you will be able to negotiate breaks. My host family took me with them on trips to see the countryside and other outings.
In regards to language learning, this was the highlight of my trip. As part of the programme, you get 2 lessons of Mandarin Chinese (1.5hr each) a week. Albeit the school was very far away (took almost 2 hours to get there every time- this is just part of living in Shanghai) but it was worth it.
The school and teachers are great, and we learnt very fast.
Socially, I was lucky to share my Chinese lessons with another au pair on the WAC programme, which was great. You also get to have monthly socials with all the au pairs, including taiji and trips to cultural towns. Shanghai also has a large expat community so there are lots of other opportunities to make friends who are in the same boat.
The WAC team was extremely helpful during my entire experience. Hazel, the leader, in particular is very kind, she was happy to help and liaise in any issue, and provide any advice I needed. The visa process was tricky but Hazel managed to sort it out with no problem. It was very comforting to know I had the WAC team for help and backup during this experience, I cannot imagine doing it without them.
I recommend this programme to anyone who has a thirst to experience something completely new and different, to learn Chinese, or who loves kids and providing childcare.