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Why are UK universities and UK schools relying on vetted family homestay accommodation for UK international students?

UK universities and UK schools are relying on vetted family homestay accommodation for international students for several reasons: It provides a safe and secure living environment for students often away from home for the first time. Homestays offer a better immersive cultural experience and the opportunity for students to practice their English language skills. The families who provide homestay accommodation are vetted for suitability to ensure they meet a range of specific standards, including providing a comfortable and clean living space. Homestay accommodation offers a superior level of care; It is less expensive than other housing options for international students because it includes guardianship, accommodation with all facilities, full board, snacks, laundry, transport, activities and much more. It allows for easing the transition to life in a new country, as students have support and guidance from their homestay families. By living with a local family, international students ...

Why the British council provides Safeguarding certifications to host families for hosting under 18 UK overseas students?

The British Council provides safeguarding training and certifications to host family homestay accommodation for under 18 UK overseas students because of the following reasons: Protecting students' welfare: The welfare and safety of young students are of paramount importance. The British Council ensure that students in homestay accommodations are protected from harm and have their best interests at heart. Providing a safe environment: Safeguarding training and certifications for host families help to ensure that homestay environments are safe, secure, and free from abuse or neglect. Host families who have received such training are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide a safe and supportive environment for young students. Building trust and confidence: The provision of safeguarding training and certifications by the British Council helps to build trust and confidence in the homestay experience, both for students and their families, as well as for schools and ot...

Changes to the UKVI Child Student Visa rules - Important update for parents of under-18 overseas students in the UK

We are informing you of crucial updates to the UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) Child Student Immigration Rules, which took effect on May 29th 2025. As part of these changes, UKVI is intensifying its scrutiny of the host family accommodation arrangements approved for international students by independent schools. What does this mean for students, parents, and agencies This increased oversight will result in schools requesting more detailed information about homestay arrangements. This initiative is crucial to ensure that each student's living situation meets the highest standards of safeguarding and is fully transparent to both schools and immigration authorities. Here's what to expect : - Requests for Detailed Information: Schools will require documentation such as: - Proof of the whole family enhanced DBS check - Proof of a homestay safeguarding certificate by AEGIS - Proof of British citizenship or settled status for the whole family. Schools will directly discuss the suitabi...

Why is the southeast of England a top destination for UK international students?

The southeast of England is a top destination for UK international students due to several reasons: Prestigious Universities: The southeast of England is home to several of the UK's top universities, including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, LSE, King's College, SOAS, Birkbeck, Queen Mary and the University of London and UAL, Reading and Southampton Universities, which attracts a vast number of international students. Rich Culture and History: The southeast of England is rich in culture and history, offering international students a chance to experience iconic landmarks, museums, and cultural events, such as the famous Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London. Multicultural Environment: The southeast of England is home to a diverse and multicultural population, allowing international students to interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Strong Economy: The southeast of England is a hub for innovation ...

How does vetted family homestay in the UK play a critical part in supporting young UK overseas students and UK schools?

Vetted family homestay in the UK plays a critical role in supporting young UK overseas students and UK schools in several ways: Homely Environment: Homestays provide young students with a homely environment that supports their well-being and academic success. Living with a family can help students feel more comfortable and supported, particularly if they are far from their families. Cultural Immersion: Homestays allow students to experience British culture first-hand, helping them to understand the country and its customs better. This can improve their language skills and cultural awareness, which is especially important for students new to the UK. Support Network: Family homestays provide students with a support network that can help them to settle in and adjust to their new surroundings. Host families can offer practical and emotional support, assisting the students in feeling more secure and confident. Improved Learning Outcomes: Living with a family can help students feel more ...

The Challenges over the growing market of UK overseas under 18 students accommodation

The growing market of UK overseas under 18 students causes challenges in student accommodation due to several reasons: Age restrictions: Accommodation providers may have age restrictions, making it difficult for young students to secure a suitable place to stay. Guardianship: Overseas students under 18 are required to have a legal guardian, which can make it more complicated to arrange and manage their accommodation. Health and safety: Accommodation providers have a duty of care to ensure the health and safety of young students, which can pose additional challenges. Different cultural and language needs: Young overseas students may require additional support to settle and accommodation arrangements to help them adapt to a new environment and culture. Increased demand for student accommodation: The growing number of overseas students has increased the demand for student accommodation, making it even more difficult for young students to secure a suitable place to stay. These challen...

7 Questions to Ask Before Renting Student Accommodation in Reading

Ensure you're making an informed decision by considering these 7 essential questions about student accommodation in Reading. If you are not renting your student accommodation from the University or school in Reading, you will look privately and should ask yourself a few questions: How many occupants live inside the rented home, 5,8,10 or more, and what is their age group? Are they all students, and if so, are they studying vocational, academic or similar studies? Do students' friends are also invited to stay in the rented accommodation? Reading central has its challenges regarding safety and places to avoid. Are you in a safe residential area? How long does it actually take you to get to your school or Reading University from your bedroom door to your classroom? Is there a guardian, CCTV cameras, health & safety, cleaners and DBS-checked occupant on site? Does the size of the kitchen, fridge & freezer and laundry room are suited for 5 occupants or more to cook simultane...