Information

Parent and Student Information

This is a total immersion programme that enables students to get the full benefit of learning the English language.

  • Each student will be placed with a family who will be fully interviewed by ourselves and Garda (Police) Vetted.
  • We will visit all homes, prior to your stay, to confirm their suitability for host students, and check out the students bedroom to ensure it meets our standards and expectations
  • The student will have a bedroom of their own which will include a bed, wardrobe, locker, desk and chair.
  • The student will always be treated as part of their host family We get references for all our Host Families and they are fully checked out.
  • Each student must hold a valid European Health Card – if you contact your local health office they will assist you in getting this card– if you contact your local health office they will assist you in getting this card. Students should have their own toiletries with them.
  • Each student must have their own travel insurance in place that will cover them for all travel disruptions or issues, accidents and public liability for the duration of their stay – if you Google
    international student insurance it will bring up your options.
  • The host family are not responsible for any medical/dental expenses for the student.
  • Bringing 2 cards ( Debit/Credit ) is advisable in the event of one being lost.
  • Find out from your own school what documentation and information is required to take back to them when your school time in Ireland is completed.
  • Contracts will be signed by both the host family and the student’s family before the student arrives in Ireland.
  • We will be fully contactable 24/7 by phone in the event of any problems or issues the student may be having – any problems or issues will be dealt with immediately.
  • We will strive to make the students stay in Ireland as happy and memorable as possible We hope the student will make lifelong friends while they are here.

Tips for a successful trip to Ireland

  • Bring an electrical adapter with you
  • Check the climate of Ireland to ensure you bring the correct clothing. This can be checked on http://www.met.ie/
  • Become involved with your host family – interact with them as much as possible. You should try to participate in family activities as much as possible. This will help you develop close relationships with members of your host family and will help improve your learning of the English language and of the Irish culture.
  • Be prepared for language difficulties – even if you speak some English you may still experience difficulties in communicating. If you don’t understand something, just explain you don’t understand. Our host families will only be happy to explain whatever you may not understand and to help you with your new language.
  • Take it slowly – when you arrive in Ireland give yourself time to adjust to your new environment. Do not be upset or disappointed if you feel a little confused or homesick, this will be perfectly normal. Both myself and your host family will do everything we can to ensure that you settle in and adapt to your new surroundings. You will be here for several months, so there is no need to rush anything – one day at a time.
  • Different rules – Each host family will have their own rules about what they will and will not allow you to do while living in their home. You will be expected to follow any rules they may have and accepting these rules is all part of being a student abroad as they are responsible for you while you are in Ireland
  • Cultural differences will exist – we all have our own ways of doing things, and things in Ireland may contrast with what you are accustomed to at home. You will soon find yourself adapting to your new environment and your new cultures. It will be a great experience learning all about Ireland and our cultures.
  • Always communicate to solve problems – the best way to solve a problem and to build new relationships is through communication. If you are upset, or something is not right for you tell your host family. Be honest with them and they will discuss the issue with you, and with open communication they can try and help resolve the issue. They will have their point of
    view as you will have yours. Always be respectful towards other people and try not to be judgemental or critical.
  • Culture shock is normal – living abroad you may experience a culture shock. You may be homesick or just a little shell shocked that this day you have been waiting for has finally arrived and here you are in Ireland. Allow yourself time to settle and I myself will check up on you regularly after you arrive and the host family will do everything they can to help you
    settle in.
  • Academic performance – remember the main focus of this programme is education. You are here to attend school and to learn English. Should you find yourself having trouble with your schoolwork or grades, please talk to your teachers, host family or myself and we will do ourvery best to help you out.