FAQs for Students, Parents and Teachers.

1. How are host families selected? Host families go through a rigorous vetting process that includes a detailed application, background checks, a home inspection, and an interview to confirm their suitability.

2. What is expected of students? Students are expected to be polite and respectful at all times. You should follow any House Rules provided by your host and make an effort to join in family activities and integrate into daily life.

3. What are host families like? Host families are experienced in welcoming international guests. They vary widely — some have children at home, others are couples, some may have pets. All will treat you as part of the family and help you settle in.

4. How will I be placed with a family? We typically place 2–3 students per family. In some cases, availability may allow up to 5 students per family. Students are placed in single beds, though female students may occasionally be placed in a double bed. If you require a placement of no more than two students per family, this must be requested in writing and carries a £/€45 surcharge per student. We follow British Council regulations, which cap placements at four students per host family.

5. What are my responsibilities regarding my room? Your host will change bed linen and clean your room weekly (for stays over 7 nights), but you are expected to keep it tidy. Be considerate with noise — especially early mornings and late evenings. Always ask permission before using any electrical appliances or the internet. Please note that neither the agency, your school, nor your host family is liable for your personal belongings; student travel insurance is strongly recommended.

6. What are the evening curfew expectations? Dinner is typically served between 6 pm and 8 pm, depending on the host’s circumstances such as work schedule and location. If you will be late, notify your host before 3 pm. You should be home by 10 pm at the latest. Always let the family know your expected return time and enter the home quietly.

7. Can I have friends over? You may not bring friends to your room or have guests stay overnight without your host’s prior permission.

8. Which areas of the house can I access? Common areas such as the living room and dining room are available to you. Many hosts enjoy socialising with students after dinner — a great opportunity to practise your English and learn about the local culture.

9. Can I shower every day? Yes. You will have access to a shared bathroom (unless you have booked a private one). Please be mindful of other occupants, keep your time in the bathroom reasonable — particularly in the mornings — and always leave it clean and tidy.

10. What about laundry? For stays over 7 nights, hosts will do your laundry once a week or allow you to use the washing machine. Additional washing may incur a small charge. Clothes should be dried in the designated area, not in your room.

11. What meals are provided? Breakfast (typically cereal, toast, and a hot drink) is served between 7 and 8 am. Lunch is usually light — typically a packed lunch, sandwich, or salad. Dinner is the main meal of the day. Please inform us of any dietary requirements at the time of application; an additional charge may apply. Kitchen use (except for self-catering guests) requires prior agreement with your host.

12. Can I use the host’s telephone? The landline is available for incoming calls only — generally to confirm your arrival and to call before departure. Outgoing calls are not permitted. Internet access is subject to agreement with your host.

13. Will I receive a front door key? Students aged 16 and over may be given a front door key, depending on the family. If you lose your key, inform your host immediately. A replacement will be arranged, and you may be required to cover the cost of the key or a lock change, at the host family’s discretion.

14. Do I need to bring my own toiletries and towels? Yes. Please bring your own toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, etc.) and at least one towel.

15. What if I am unhappy with my host family? If a genuine problem arises, contact us directly and we will work to resolve it promptly.

For short stays (up to 14 nights), we allow at least 2 nights to assess the situation, as initial difficulties may stem from a language barrier. In the case of serious issues, we will act immediately and aim to arrange alternative accommodation within 24–48 hours.

For longer stays (14+ nights), we will arrange a move with at least one week’s notice to the host, except in serious cases where we will act immediately. Please allow 24–48 hours to source a suitable replacement.

Serious problems include any situation involving safety concerns, abuse, harassment, or threats to a student’s welfare.

16. How are group leaders accommodated? Leaders are placed in a single room. If two leaders wish to stay with the same family, they will be placed together in a twin room.

17. Can two leaders be in the same family in separate single rooms? We will try to arrange this upon request, but cannot guarantee availability until the day before departure. Leaders should decide whether their priority is a single room or being in the same family. Alternatives include booking a twin room or a B&B/hotel with single rooms at an additional cost.

18. Will my students improve their English with a host family? Host families provide accommodation and a cultural experience — they are not language tutors. Students may practise conversational English, but this depends on both parties. Hosts may be tired after work, and very low language levels can make interaction difficult. The primary benefits are cultural immersion and affordable accommodation.

19. How far is the host family from school or the meeting point? Travel times vary by location, with an average of around 35–40 minutes. In larger cities, times may be greater.