Benefits of being a host family
Getting involved in international exchange is rewarding for your whole family. Below are just some of the benefits of hosting an exchange student with EF High School Year.
Create a Volunteer Family
Families of all shapes and sizes benefit immensely from doing good together. This is especially true when you volunteer to be an EF High School Year host family. Parents experience the joy of sharing in another child’s development. Children of all ages benefit from bonding with a student from another country. And by sharing a desire to understand other cultures and make an impact, your family will grow together.
Live Life to the Fullest
Families with grown children or without kids of their own love hosting too. Having an exchange student in your local school provides a great way to stay involved with your community. Many people also find they start living life to the fullest with a new son or daughter to share experiences with.
Share Your British Pride
When you host, you play a direct role in promoting the values of Great Britain. Living with your family is the best way for students from around the world to become immersed in British democracy, media and debate. When the young man or woman you host goes on to university and a career, the lessons they’ve learned in Britain will help to shape their decisions for a lifetime.
Learn More About the World
Hosting is an excellent way to learn about the world without leaving home. Parents and children alike can learn a new language, get personal insight into the world beyond their backyards, and even become excellent international cooks! Living with a student from another culture is an education in itself, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
Food Grant to Cover Costs
In recognition of the time and energy host families give to create goodwill for Britain, families who host an EF High School Year exchange student are eligible to receive a food grant which goes to cover costs of food and utilities.
Have Fun
Host families and exchange students laugh. A lot. Whether giggling over the mispronunciation of words or sharing students’ excitement about the new school and friends, host families have a tremendous amount of fun.
Change the World
It sounds ambitious, but it’s true: when you host an EF High School Year exchange student, you gain the power to change the world, one student at a time.