Behaviour Code of Conduct for Students in Homestay

 

Skywise Educational Guardianship Ltd (Skywise) is committed to the welfare and safety of all students under its care. We expect all students to behave responsibly, respectfully, and in accordance with UK laws, safeguarding standards, and cultural norms while staying in a homestay. This Code of Conduct applies to all Skywise students, parents/agents, staff, and homestays.

 

General Behaviour and Conduct in Homestay

When staying in a homestay, students are expected to be polite and courteous. In the UK, it is important to say “please” and “thank you” when asking for and receiving items.

A homestay is not a hotel; students will be welcomed as part of the family. This means:

●      Joining the family at mealtimes

●      Participating in family conversations and activities

●      Helping with simple tasks such as setting or clearing the table

Your homestay will explain their house rules upon your arrival. Please ask if you have any questions.

 

Curfew Arrangements

For students who have permission to go out unaccompanied, the following curfews apply:

●      Ages 12 and under: Must be accompanied by an adult member of the homestay

 Return by 7:00 PM

●      Ages 13–15: Must return by 8:00pm

●      Ages 16-18: Must return by 11:00pm

All students must:

●      Carry a fully charged mobile phone (with the ringer on) when going out

●      Inform their homestay where they are going and approximately how long they will be out

●      Contact their homestay immediately if they are delayed

 

Suggested Bedtimes

Skywise recommends the following bedtimes for students:

●      Ages 12 and under: 9:00pm

●      Ages 13–15: 10:00pm

●      Ages 16–18: 11:00pm

Any changes to these times should be discussed with the homestay in advance. Flexibility is allowed for special occasions, such as family outings or cultural events, but students must inform their homestay and keep in touch via WhatsApp until they return.

 

Use of the Kitchen

Homestays typically provide meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). If you would like to help with cooking or prepare your own meals, please speak with your homestay first. They will explain how to use kitchen equipment safely.

If you bring your own food, let your homestay know so they can store it safely (e.g., in the fridge). Drinks and snacks (such as fruit or biscuits) will be available throughout the day, and your homestay will explain how to access these.

 

Use of the Bathroom

Please respect the family’s routines and limit the time spent in shared bathrooms.

●      Leave the bathroom clean and tidy after use

●      Check with your homestay about the best times for showers

●      One shower or bath per day is usually sufficient

●      Always lock the door when using the bathroom and ensure you are suitably dressed when moving between your bedroom and the bathroom

 

Use of Wi-Fi and Technology

Discuss Wi-Fi access with your homestay. Some families may have limits on data usage or may turn off Wi-Fi at bedtime. Homestays may also use parental controls to block inappropriate sites. Students should use their own devices and not the homestay’s computer.

 

UK Laws and Skywise Expectations

Skywise expects all students to comply with UK laws while under our care:

●      Alcohol: Students are not permitted to consume alcohol under any circumstances. It is illegal for under-18s to buy alcohol in the UK.

●      Drugs: The use, possession, or supply of illegal drugs is strictly forbidden.

●      Smoking: Students are not permitted to smoke or vape. It is illegal to buy cigarettes under the age of 18 in the UK.

●      Sexual Activity: Students must not engage in sexual activity while under the care of Skywise, even if they are over the age of consent (16 in the UK).

●      Tattoos and Body Piercings: Students must not get tattoos or body piercings while in the care of Skywise. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to get a tattoo in the UK, even with parental consent.

 

Staying Away from the Homestay

Students are not allowed to stay overnight away from their homestay without prior permission from the Skywise Guardian.

If you wish to stay with a friend, the following information must be provided in writing:

●      The name of your friend

●      The name and contact details of the responsible adult (aged 25 or over) at the address

●      The address of the responsible adult

●      A phone number for the responsible adult

The Skywise Guardian will contact the responsible adult to verify arrangements

 

 Review and Monitoring

●      This policy will be reviewed annually or following significant changes in legislation, statutory guidance, or organisational structure.

●      Any updates will be approved by the Company Director (DSL) and communicated to all staff and homestays.

 

Last Reviewed: Mrs Katherine Lee 01/03/2025
Next Review Due: 01/03/2026