Staying With a Host Family or Remaining in School for Exeats and Half Terms?
A small but growing number of schools now keep a house open for international students during exeats and half terms, offering an alternative to staying with relatives or a host family.
While staying at school may occasionally suit certain circumstances, we believe the most enriching and well-rounded experience for your child comes from spending time with a host family. Building a meaningful relationship with their host “parents” and experiencing everyday family life outside the school environment provides invaluable support and balance.
Below are ten key benefits to consider when planning your child’s time away from school:
While staying at school may occasionally suit certain circumstances, we believe the most enriching and well-rounded experience for your child comes from spending time with a host family. Building a meaningful relationship with their host “parents” and experiencing everyday family life outside the school environment provides invaluable support and balance.
Below are ten key benefits to consider when planning your child’s time away from school:
1. A home from home – A warm, comfortable environment and the feeling of being part of a supportive family.
2. A genuine break from school routines – Time to reset away from academic structure.
3. Personal space – A private room and a respite from the shared facilities of school life.
4. Cost-effective – Host family stays are generally more affordable than remaining in school accommodation.
5. Personalised care – Host families can respond to a student’s individual needs, whether that means quiet time for rest and recovery or the chance to join in with busy family activities.
1. A home from home – A warm, comfortable environment and the feeling of being part of a supportive family.
2. A genuine break from school routines – Time to reset away from academic structure.
3. Personal space – A private room and a respite from the shared facilities of school life.
4. Cost-effective – Host family stays are generally more affordable than remaining in school accommodation.
5. Personalised care – Host families can respond to a student’s individual needs, whether that means quiet time for rest and recovery or the chance to join in with busy family activities.
6. Cultural immersion – A natural way to deepen understanding of English customs, communication, and daily life.
7. A change of pace and scenery – Students work extremely hard at boarding school; a different environment helps them to recharge.
8. Opportunities for exploration – Visits to new places and experiences that broaden cultural horizons.
9. Freedom and flexibility – Time to choose how they spend their days: revising, reading, relaxing, going on outings, or enjoying hobbies.
10. No timetable – The freedom to enjoy true downtime without pressure or scheduled activities.
6. Cultural immersion – A natural way to deepen understanding of English customs, communication, and daily life.
7. A change of pace and scenery – Students work extremely hard at boarding school; a different environment helps them to recharge.
8. Opportunities for exploration – Visits to new places and experiences that broaden cultural horizons.
9. Freedom and flexibility – Time to choose how they spend their days: revising, reading, relaxing, going on outings, or enjoying hobbies.
10. No timetable – The freedom to enjoy true downtime without pressure or scheduled activities.
An added bonus: Don’t forget Pippa’s half-term camps are also available. Choose from Holiday or Study Camps, and for older students, GCSE/A-Level Revision Camps and Work Experience Camps.
