The Cowichan Valley has hosted international students in homestays for over 15 years. Student safety and well-being is our priority. Our homestay program is well-established and we have clear procedures for host families to follow. The full-time, professional homestay manager arranges and supervises all homestay placements. She supports the students and host families to ensure successful homestay experiences for all students.
About our host families:
- Host families are carefully selected.
We obtain criminal
record checks on all family members over the
age of 18 years. We conduct in-home interviews and
inspections
- Host parents are fully trained before hosting students
- International students are welcomed as family members into the home and encouraged to participate in family activities
- Our homestays are in nice homes with comfortable bedrooms for students
- We offer rural and urban locations
- We plan social events for students and their host families
- Students receive personal, individual attention from host parents. We never place more than 2 international students in a homestay
- Host parents meet students at the airport upon their arrival
Host families provide:
- A private bedroom
- Three meals a day
- Basic necessities such as toiletries
- Transportation
- Parenting, support, guidance
Advantages of living in a homestay:
- Achieve personal and academic success by living in a comfortable and supportive environment
- Feel safe and secure. Host parents care for students as they care for their own children
- Speak English every day with native English speakers
- Learn about Canadian lifestyle and culture
- Develop friendships that can last a lifetime
Interested in becoming a Host Parent?
Please contact Judy
Hershman at (250) 746-0744 for further information.
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