Welcome and Introduction

 

Welcome to Skywise Guardianship! We are delighted to partner with you in providing a nurturing and supportive environment for international students studying abroad. As a vital part of our network, your role as homestay providers is instrumental in ensuring the well-being and success of these students during their educational journey.

 

At Skywise Guardianship, our guardianship program is dedicated to offering comprehensive support and assistance to both international students and their host families.

 

We value your partnership and commitment to providing a welcoming and nurturing home for international students. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these students and help them thrive academically, socially, and personally.

 

Thank you for your dedication and support. We look forward to a successful partnership with you!

 

Our Team

 

Our team consists of dedicated professionals who are committed to providing personalized care and guidance to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all involved.

Allow us to introduce some key members of our team:

 

1. Tina Zheng - Guardianship Coordinator

 

-        Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) 

 

Tina Zheng serves as the Guardianship Coordinator at Skywise Guardianship, overseeing the comprehensive support and assistance provided to international students and their host families. In her role, Tina is responsible for:

- Acting as the primary point of contact for homestay providers, addressing any questions, concerns, or inquiries related to hosting international students.

- Coordinating the placement of international students with suitable homestay families, ensuring compatibility and alignment of preferences and needs.

- Conducting regular check-ins with homestay providers and international students to assess their well-being and satisfaction with the placement.

- Facilitating communication between homestay providers, educational institutions, and parents or guardians of international students to address any issues or concerns that may arise.

- Providing guidance and support to homestay providers on cultural integration, student welfare, and emergency procedures.

- Collaborating with other members of the guardianship team to ensure a holistic and seamless support system for international students throughout their educational journey.

Tina Zheng brings a compassionate approach to her role, ensuring that homestay providers feel supported and international students receive the care and assistance they need to thrive in their new environment.

- Contact Information: tina.zheng@skywisegroup.com, 07792766329

 

2. Katherine Lee - Student Support Coordinator

 

-        British Council UK Agent and Counsellor Certificate

-        CSTF Safeguarding Children Level 1, 2 & 3

-        Alison Safer Recruitment Certificate

-        Prevent/Anti-radicalization Training Certificate

 

Katherine Lee serves as the Student Support Coordinator at Skywise Guardianship, responsible for providing comprehensive support and assistance to international students throughout their educational journey. In her role, Katherine's responsibilities include:

 

- Serving as a primary point of contact for international students, offering guidance, support, and assistance in various aspects of their student life.

- Providing orientation and ongoing support to help international students navigate their new environment, including cultural adaptation, academic support, and social integration.

- Facilitating communication between international students, their host families, educational institutions, and guardianship organization to address any concerns or issues that may arise.

- Offering assistance with practical matters such as healthcare, transportation, banking, and other daily living needs.

- Providing emotional support and guidance to international students, including assistance with homesickness, stress management, and adjustment to a new culture.

- Organizing and coordinating social and cultural activities to promote cross-cultural exchange and enhance the overall student experience.

- Collaborating with other members of the guardianship team to ensure a holistic and supportive environment for international students.

 

Katherine Lee brings a compassionate and empathetic approach to her role, ensuring that international students feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed in their educational endeavors.

- Contact Information: katherine.lee@skysiwegroup.com, 07809721064

 

3. Grace Lee & Carol Chen - Emergency Support Managers (UK & China)

 

As the company’s founders, Grace Lee and Carol Chen serve as the Emergency Support Manager at Skywise Guardianship, responsible for overseeing emergency preparedness and providing immediate assistance to international students in crisis situations. In this role, their responsibilities include:

 

- Serving as the primary point of contact for international students in emergency situations, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, or other urgent matters.

- Coordinating with local authorities, healthcare providers, and other relevant stakeholders to address emergency situations and ensure appropriate assistance and support for international students.

- Providing guidance and support to international students and their host families on emergency preparedness, including information on emergency contacts, evacuation procedures, and safety protocols.

- Maintaining a network of resources and contacts to facilitate timely and appropriate responses to emergency situations, including access to medical care, transportation, and temporary accommodations if needed.

- Collaborating with other members of the guardianship team to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness and response.

Paul Lee brings a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of international students in all circumstances.

- Contact Information: info@skywisegroup.com, 07939206682; carol.chen@skywisegroup.com, 0086-13911758098

 

 

4. Tina Zheng - Academic Support Advisor

 

Tina Zheng, an experienced tutor with over ten years of experience, serves as the Academic Support Advisor at Skywise Guardianship, responsible for providing comprehensive academic guidance and support to international students. In her role, the responsibilities include:

 

- Offering personalised academic advising to international students to help them navigate their educational journey and achieve their academic goals.

- Providing assistance with course selection, academic planning, and registration processes to ensure that international students are enrolled in appropriate and fulfilling academic programs.

- Offering support and guidance to international students on academic policies, procedures, and requirements at their respective educational institutions.

- Assisting international students with understanding and adapting to the academic culture and expectations in their host country, including study habits, academic writing, and examination preparation.

- Collaborating with educational institutions and faculty members to advocate for the academic needs and interests of international students and facilitate communication between students and academic advisors.

- Providing resources and referrals to academic support services, such as tutoring, writing centers, and study groups, to help international students succeed academically.

- Monitoring academic progress and performance of international students and offering intervention and support as needed to address academic challenges and promote success.

Tina Zheng brings a wealth of experience in academic advising and a dedication to supporting international students in achieving their academic aspirations.

- Contact Information: tina.zheng@skysiwegroup.com, 07792766329  

 

Our team is here to provide guidance, assistance, and support to both homestay providers and international students throughout their time with us. Whether you have questions about cultural integration, academic support, emergency assistance, or any other aspect of hosting international students, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

 

Contact Details

There may be times that you need to contact us. We are always here to assist you with any requests or concerns that you may have. You can contact in the following ways:

Tel (office hours 8am – 5pm)   

Ms Zhiying Zheng 07792766329

Mrs Katherine Lee 07809721064

Email：info@skywiseegroup.com

WeChat：klee821

 

Emergencies 24/7

UK – Miss Grace Lee 07767599455

info@skywisegroup.com

China – Ms Yanping Chen 0086-13911758098

carol.chen@skywisegroup.com

 

Safeguarding concerns

Designated safeguarding Lead  

Ms Zhiying Zheng 07792766329

tina.zheng@skywisegroup.com

Contact Details for the Local Safeguarding Partners (LSP)  

the Redbridge MASH 020 8708 3885

CPAT.Referrals@redbridge.gov.uk

 

Contact Details for the Local Area Designated Officer (LADO)   

Helen Curtis 020 8708 5350

helen.curtis@redbridge.gov.uk

 

 

 

The Role of Skywise Guardianship

Skywise Guardianship plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and support of international students studying abroad. Here's an outline of the role of the guardianship organization:

 

1. Student Welfare and Support:

- Skywise Guardianship serves as a point of contact and support for international students throughout their educational journey. We act as a guardian or advocate for the students, ensuring their well-being, safety, and happiness while they are away from home.

- We provide support in various aspects of student life, including accommodation arrangements, visa and immigration matters, healthcare, academic support, and social integration.

 

2. Emergency Assistance:

- In case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, we are available to provide immediate assistance to students. This could include medical emergencies, legal issues, or any other urgent situations requiring intervention.

- We maintain a network of contacts and resources to address emergencies promptly and effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of students at all times.

 

3. Communication and Liaison:

- Skywise Guardianship serves as a bridge of communication between international students, their host families, schools, and parents or guardians back home. We facilitate clear and effective communication channels to address any concerns or issues that may arise.

- We also liaise with educational institutions, homestay providers, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the needs of international students are met and that they have a positive educational experience.

 

4. Cultural Orientation and Support:

- Recognizing the cultural adjustment that international students may experience, Skywise Guardianship provides cultural orientation and support to help students acclimate to their new environment.

- We offer guidance on cultural norms, customs, and expectations, as well as practical advice on navigating daily life in a new country.

 

5. Regular Check-Ins and Monitoring:

- Skywise Guardianship conducts regular check-ins with international students to assess their well-being, academic progress, and overall adjustment to their host country.

- We monitor students' living arrangements, academic performance, and social integration to ensure that they are thriving in their new environment and address any challenges or concerns promptly.

 

6. 24/7 Availability:

- Skywise Guardianship provides round-the-clock support and assistance to international students and their families, ensuring that help is available whenever needed, regardless of the time zone.

 

Overall, Skywise Guardianship plays a vital role in supporting international students throughout their educational journey abroad, ensuring their well-being, safety, and academic success. They serve as a trusted advocate and support system, helping students navigate the challenges of studying in the UK and facilitating a positive and enriching experience.

 

Your Role as a Homestay

As a homestay provider, your role is essential in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for international students studying abroad. Here’s an outline of the role of the homestay:

 

1. Accommodation and Housing:

Your primary responsibility is to provide safe, comfortable, and culturally appropriate accommodation for international students. This includes a private bedroom, access to shared living spaces, and amenities necessary for daily living.

 

2. Cultural Integration:

You play a key role in facilitating cultural integration for international students by introducing them to local customs, traditions, and daily routines. This helps students adjust to their new environment and feel more connected to the local community.

 

3. Support and Guidance:

You offer support and guidance to international students, serving as a friendly and approachable point of contact for any questions, concerns, or challenges they may encounter during their stay. This includes providing information about local amenities, transportation, and activities.

 

4. Nutritional Support:

You provide nutritious meals for international students, taking into account any dietary restrictions or preferences they may have. This helps ensure that students maintain a healthy diet while away from home and provides them with a taste of local cuisine.

 

5. Safety and Security:

Ensuring the safety and security of international students is paramount. You maintain a secure and welcoming environment, with clear guidelines on safety protocols and emergency procedures in place.

 

6. Caring Environment:

You strive to create a warm and caring environment for international students, where they feel valued, respected, and part of the family. This includes fostering open communication, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging.

 

7. Academic Support:

While you are not responsible for academic instruction, you can provide a supportive environment for studying and learning. This may include designated study areas, access to Wi-Fi, and assistance with navigating academic resources.

 

8. Cultural Exchange:

Hosting international students provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning for both the students and the host family. You encourage open dialogue and interaction, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

 

9. Regular Communication:

You maintain regular communication with the guardianship organization, educational institution, and parents or guardians of international students to provide updates on their well-being and progress.

 

10. Respect for Privacy:

You respect the privacy and personal space of international students while also encouraging open communication and engagement with the host family.

 

Overall, as a homestay provider, your role is to create a supportive and nurturing environment for international students, helping them feel at home and thrive during their study abroad experience.

 

Looking after and respecting the rights of the student

 

We host students aged between 10-18. Students of different ages may require different care. For example, younger students will require greater nurturing and supervision during their stay, whereas older students will be more independent and may be allowed to visit the local area on their own. Parental permissions may vary from student to student too. We will explain to you what we expect from you prior to placing any student with you.

 

One of the most mutually rewarding experiences of hosting an international student is learning about another culture. We ask that all homestays respect the students’ own culture, values and background and be mindful that there will be some differences in the way students approach everyday life, such as when greeting others or whilst eating. Likewise, the students may have a different religious belief to the homestay. Again, we ask that you are respectful of any differences.

 

Loco Parentis

We expect our homestays to exercise the same levels of care as a responsible parent – in loco parentis. This means that you are accepting the day-to-day responsibility for the care of the student whilst they are staying with you.

 

Codes of conduct

Skywise Guardianship has a code of conduct for staff and homestays. Please take time to read through this document as it outlines how staff and homestays are expected to behave whilst working for the guardianship organisation. Likewise we have a code of conduct for students. This outlines the expected standards of behaviour for our students. Please read through this as it will help you to understand our expectations. These can be found from http://www.skywisegroup.com/staff_homestay_code_of_conduct （Ctrl+Click to follow link）

 

Safeguarding

Skywise Guardianship is committed to safeguarding and child protection. We have comprehensive policies on safeguarding, prevent / anti-radicalisation, low level concerns, complaints, anti-bullying, missing student, online safety, data protection that provide further information and outline our procedures. These can be found from www.skywisegroup.com. Please ensure that you have read and understood all our policies.

 

You are required to undertake a basic certificated course on safeguarding. This should be refreshed every three years. We will also provide an annual safeguarding update. This will be via the annual visit, a newsletter, or an online meeting.

 

We encourage students to talk to any trusted adult should they have any concerns. As a homestay, a student may consider you to be a trusted adult. There may be students who feel more comfortable speaking to other homestay family members about a concern they may have. You should therefore ensure that all members of your household are aware of what to do if a concern is shared with them. We have explained to students that any concerns they raise will be treated seriously. If a student comes to you or any homestay member to raise a concern, please ensure that it is dealt with in line with our published procedure http://www.skywisegroup.com/safeguarding_child_protection_p （Ctrl+Click to follow link）

and reported to our Designated Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible.

 

 

Self-Reporting

 

At Skywise Guardianship, we are committed to the highest standards of safeguarding and professional conduct. In line with best practice and our Code of Conduct, all homestay providers are expected to act with integrity, transparency, and accountability at all times.

 

Why This Matters

By encouraging a culture of openness and responsibility, we:

• Maintain trust and confidence between families, students, and guardians.
• Ensure that safeguarding remains a top priority.
• Protect both students and homestay families from potential misunderstandings or risks.

If you are unsure whether something should be reported, we encourage you to speak with your Skywise coordinator or the Designated Safeguarding Lead. It’s always better to report than to remain silent.

 

Self-Reporting Responsibilities

Skywise Guardianship requires all staff members and homestay hosts to self-report any incident, behaviour, or situation that:

• Could be perceived as compromising, unprofessional, or inappropriate.
• May be misconstrued by others, including students, parents, or members of the public.
• Falls below the standards outlined in the Skywise Code of Conduct or relevant safeguarding guidelines.

Examples may include (but are not limited to):

• Miscommunication or misunderstandings with students.
• Inadvertent breaches of personal or professional boundaries.
• Personal or family circumstances that may affect your ability to safely host or support a student.

Reporting such matters does not imply wrongdoing, but demonstrates a proactive commitment to safeguarding, professionalism, and child welfare.

 

Our Response and Record-Keeping

Skywise has a clear and confidential process in place to:

• Record and assess any self-reported incidents or concerns.
• Provide appropriate guidance or follow-up actions.
• Ensure transparency while supporting both the student and the homestay provider.

All reports are treated seriously and sensitively. Where needed, support or training may be offered to help prevent future issues.

 

To report a concern or self-disclose a situation, please contact:
📧 info @skywisegroup.com
📞  UK – Miss Grace Lee 07767599455 
    China – Ms Yanping Chen 0086-13911758098

 

Control

Homestays may only use reasonable, appropriate and lawful means of control to maintain safety.  Under no circumstances should physical punishment ever be used.    

      

Homesickness

When students arrive in the UK, they might be homesick.  

Signs that they may be feeling homesick include:

●       A strong desire to go home

●       Feeling lonely

●       Feeling sad

●       Feeling anxious

●       Lack of motivation

●       Loss of confidence

●       Feeling depressed

●       Experiencing mood swings

●       Feeling insecure

●       Finding simple tasks difficult

●       Physical symptoms, such as headaches and nausea

If your student is showing signs of homesickness, tell them not to worry as there are many people who can help them manage their feelings. Let them talk to you about their feelings, and remind them that they can always talk to their house parent, teacher, parent, guardian, or any member of guardian staff who will listen and will be able to support you and offer advice. It is best not to encourage them to frequently call home, as this can make the feelings worse. Keeping the student busy and interested in a variety of family activities and discussions may help them settle and feel happier. Please do let us know if you are concerned that your student is suffering with homesickness. We are here to support both you and the student.

 

How to comfort a student in distress

There may be occasions where your student is upset. For example, the student may be homesick (see above), unwell or experiencing pressure in their academic studies. In such incidences please do not comfort the student physically. It is inappropriate to hug a student as you may comfort your own child, however there are many things you can do to help:

●       Listen to the student’s concerns

●       Offer comforting words and advice

●       If you can speak the students’ first language, this may help to calm the student

●       Please do alert us to the problem and we will offer you support

 

Curfews and Bedtimes

As a homestay provider, it is important to help students understand and follow curfew and bedtime rules. These guidelines are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of students while promoting responsibility and respect for their host family’s household routines.

 

Curfew Times

 

Students who are allowed to go out on their own will be required to return to their homestay by the following times, depending on their age:

• Ages 12 and under: Return by 7:00 PM
• Ages 12 to 16: Return by 8:00 PM
• Ages 16 to 18: Return by 9:00 PM

All students who are permitted to go out unaccompanied must take their mobile phone (fully charged) with them and keep it switched on during their time outside. It is important for students to inform their homestay of the following details before leaving:

• Where they are going
• How long they expect to be out
• If they are delayed, they must contact their homestay immediately to let them know.

Please ensure that students follow these guidelines and maintain open communication with you when they are out.

 

Suggested Bedtimes

 

Skywise Guardianship recommends the following bedtimes for students, based on their age group:

• Ages 12 and under: 9:00 PM
• Ages 12 to 16: 10:00 PM
• Ages 16 to 18: 11:00 PM

These recommended bedtimes are to help students maintain a healthy routine. Any deviation from these times should be discussed with the homestay in advance. It is important to ensure that students get enough rest to support their academic and personal well-being.

 

Permission for students

to visit the local area / travelling further afield

As a homestay provider, you play a key role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the students under your care—especially when they are exploring the local area or taking part in longer trips.

 

Local Outings

Students under 18 must not go out alone without prior permission. For short outings to places such as a nearby shop, café, or park, the following procedures should be followed:

• Always ensure the student asks for permission before leaving the house, even for short walks.
• Confirm where they are going, who they are going with, and when they plan to return.
• Students should not go out alone after dark or travel significant distances unaccompanied.
• Students must not leave the town or local area without written permission from you or their guardian.

If a student is unsure about whether a particular outing is allowed, please guide them or contact Skywise Guardianship for support.

 

Trips Further Afield

Occasionally, students may take part in longer trips—such as day visits to other cities or attractions—through their school or Skywise Guardianship. These trips are carefully planned and supervised. Please note the following:

• Written parental/guardian consent is always required before a student can participate in a longer trip.
• Students will be supervised by trained chaperones or school staff at all times.
• All logistical arrangements (transportation, meals, emergency procedures) will be handled by the trip organiser.
• You will be informed of the trip details in advance, including departure/return times and emergency contacts.
• Please help the student prepare by reminding them to follow rules, stay with their group, and bring any necessary items (e.g., coat, packed lunch, ID).

 

Safety Guidance and Responsibilities

As a homestay host, we ask you to reinforce the following safety reminders with the student:

• Ensure they carry their emergency contact card at all times.
• Their mobile phone should be fully charged before they leave the house.
• Remind them to stay with their group or within agreed areas.
• Instruct them to contact you or their guardian immediately if they feel unsafe or something unexpected happens.

 

Your Role

Your supervision and open communication with the student are vital to their safety and successful integration. If you ever have concerns about a planned outing or feel a trip may not be appropriate, please contact Skywise Guardianship immediately.

By working together, we can help students enjoy a safe and enriching experience while respecting UK laws and guardianship policies.

 

Students staying away from the homestay

1. Clear Expectations:
Clearly communicate expectations to students regarding staying away from the homestay. Emphasize the importance of safety, communication, and responsible behavior.

 

2. Permission and Communication:
Require students to obtain permission from their host families and inform them of their plans to stay away from the homestay. This could involve written consent or verbal communication, depending on the agreement between the student and the host family.

 

3. Curfew and Check-In:
Establish a curfew for students staying away from the homestay and require them to check in with their host families at designated times. This ensures that the host family is aware of the student's whereabouts and can address any concerns about safety or well-being.

 

4. Emergency Contact Information:
Provide students with emergency contact information, including contact numbers for the host family, program coordinators, local authorities, and emergency services. Encourage students to keep this information readily accessible in case of emergencies.

 

5. Transportation and Safety:
Advise students to use safe and reliable transportation when staying away from the homestay. This may include public transportation, rideshare services, or walking in well-lit and populated areas. Remind students to travel in groups whenever possible and to avoid risky or unfamiliar areas.

 

6. Behavioral Expectations:
Reinforce behavioral expectations with students, emphasizing the importance of respectful behavior towards others and adherence to local laws and customs. Remind students that they represent both themselves and their host families while staying away from the homestay.

 

7. Communication with Program Coordinators:
Require students to inform program coordinators of their plans to stay away from the homestay. This allows program staff to be aware of students' whereabouts and provide support or assistance if needed.

 

8. Emergency Protocol:
Educate students about the protocol to follow in case of emergencies, including how to contact emergency services, seek help from trusted adults or authorities, and navigate unfamiliar situations.

 

9. Regular Check-Ins:
Encourage students to regularly check in with their host families while staying away from the homestay, either through phone calls, text messages, or in-person visits. This helps maintain open lines of communication and ensures that the host family is aware of the student's well-being.

 

10. Post-Stay Reflection:
After students return to the homestay, facilitate opportunities for reflection on their experiences. This could include discussions about safety, cultural differences, and personal growth. Encourage students to share their insights with their host families and program coordinators.

 

By outlining these expectations and procedures, we can help ensure that students have a safe and positive experience while staying away from the homestay during their program.

 

Accommodation requirements

Homestays should ensure that they provide a comfortable living environment for students. We require our students to be provided with the following:

●       A suitable bedroom and social area(s) which are well kept, clean and in good repair, with sufficient natural light.

●       Suitable safeguards must be in place to ensure that students have sufficient privacy from other students. Parents should be made aware of students who may wish to share bedrooms and must give consent before the arrangement goes ahead.

●       Where homestays are using a double bed, only one student is using this facility. Under no circumstances should students share a double bed.

●       The rooms should have suitable heating and lighting and there should be access to sufficient supplies of hot water as required.

●       Students should have access to a private space to study.

●       Students should have access to appropriate hanging and drawer space for clothing.

●       Students should have access to a bathroom with a lock on the door and either a shower or bath.

●       Students should be treated as part of the family, and therefore have access to the communal rooms in the home. They should not have access to family member’s bedrooms.

 

Please make us aware if any member of the homestay is a smoker, or if you have any pets. Students should have the right to opt for a non-smoking and/or non-pet homestay environment.

 

Please be aware of the need to ascertain the adequacy of your home insurance in respect of hosting international students. The insured (homeowner) should declare all facts to the insurer in order to a) obtain the right cover and b) obtain the right premium.

No more than three students should be placed with the same homestay at any one time, unless in exceptional circumstances. Please ensure that you inform us if you work with other guardianship organisations as we need to check that you are not accommodating more than three students in total when members of an AEGIS guardianship organisation are being hosted. 

 

When students under the age of 16 are in the care of a homestay, no students over the age of 20 should be hosted either by the guardianship organisation or another guardianship organisation working within the same homestay.

 

Homestays should not host any other paying guests or operate any form of bed and breakfast facility when hosting AEGIS students.

 

While there are no legal restrictions, homestays are expected to adhere to NSPCC advice on adult supervision and ensure that:

•     Students aged 12 and under are not left home alone for a long period of time.

•     Students aged 16 and under are not left home alone overnight.

•         Students are not left home alone regardless of their age if they do not feel comfortable with this.

 

Meals and Snacks

We ask that homestays provide students with a full board provision of breakfast, lunch and dinner during their stay, taking account of any dietary needs. In addition, students should be provided with access to suitable drinks and snacks during their stay.

 

Laundry

Homestays are asked to provide students with suitable laundry facilities if they are resident for more than one night. In most cases the homestay would undertake to do the laundry for the student.  Depending upon the age of the students, the homestay may give permission for them to do their own laundry if requested and agreed.

 

Use of the homestay’s car for transport

Any cars used to transport student should be roadworthy with up-to-date tax, insurance, and MOT (where required). If you provide transport using your car for the students in your care, please be aware of the need for adequate comprehensive vehicle insurance and that you should  inform your insurers that you will be using your car to provide transport to international students for which you may be paid or receive expenses.

Please ensure that all relevant laws relating to the use of child seats or booster seats for under 12s, when the student is below 135cm in height, and seat belts for over 12s or more than 135cm tall are discussed with students and adhered to. 

 

Access to computers and the internet & safe use of the internet

It is most likely that your student will want to access the internet during their stay. We ask that they use their own devices and not the family computer. We have an online safety policy that outlines the main risks to be aware of and what you can do as a homestay to help keep students safe. Please take time to read this document from www.skywisegroup.com.

 

Health and Safety in the Home

We expect all homestays to adhere to our health and safety guidelines:

●       A minimum of one smoke alarm should be installed on every storey.

●       A carbon monoxide alarm to be installed in any room containing a gas, liquid or solid fuel burning appliance.

●       An annual landlord gas safety check to be undertaken by a Gas Safe registered engineer and a copy of the certificate provided to the guardianship organisation. 

●       The homestay must ensure that the electrical system is safe, e.g. sockets and light fittings are secure and not overloaded and any appliances used by the student are safe.

●       The homestay must discuss the possible evacuation routes from the property with students on a regular basis. If doors or windows are locked students must know where to find the key in the event of a fire.

●       If fire extinguishers and fire blankets are provided, they must be suitably serviced.

●       Where open fires are used, a suitable fire guard should be in place when the fire is lit.

●       Any matches / lighters should be appropriately stored.

●       A basic first aid kit should be available to include, plasters, sterile eye-pad, triangular bandage, safety pins, non-medicated wound dressing, disposable gloves, leaflet giving guidance on first aid.

●       Any prescription medication and drugs should be kept safely especially when hosting young students.

●       Alcohol should be appropriately stored.

●       The homestay should have an awareness of basic food hygiene when preparing meals for students.

We will conduct an initial visit to check that your accommodation is suitable prior to you hosting a student. Thereafter we will visit at least once a year to undertake an annual check. Please let us know immediately if there are any changes in the accommodation you are offering. This includes informing us of any temporary building work that may take place when you are due to host students.

Please refer to our separate Welfare, Health and Safety statement, that can be found www.skywisegroup.com.

 

Changes in circumstances

You are required to inform the guardianship organisation about any changes to the homestay arrangements.

 

Expenses and payments

Skywise Guardianship ensures that any payments due to homestays are transacted promptly and in line with any contractual agreements in place.

 

1. Agreements with Homestays:

- Financial Agreements: Skywise Guardianship establishes clear financial agreements with homestays regarding payment terms, rates, and any other financial arrangements. These agreements are documented in contracts or written agreements signed by both parties.

- Service Expectations: The agreements also outline the expectations for services provided by homestays, including accommodation standards, meals (if applicable), safety protocols, and any additional services agreed upon.

 

2. System for Expenses:

- Expense Tracking: Skywise Guardianship maintains a detailed record of expenses related to homestay accommodations, and any other expenses incurred by homestay hosts.

- Budgeting: Skywise Guardianship establishes a budget for homestay expenses based on the agreed-upon rates and the number of students placed in homestay accommodations. This budget helps ensure that expenses are managed effectively and in line with financial agreements.

 

3. Reimbursement Process:

- Prompt Payment: Skywise Guardianship ensures that payments due to homestays are transacted promptly and in accordance with the agreed-upon payment terms. This includes regular payments for accommodation fees and any other expenses incurred by homestay hosts.

- Documentation: Homestay hosts submit invoices or expense reports detailing the expenses incurred for hosting students. These documents are reviewed and verified by Skywise Guardianship to ensure accuracy and compliance with contractual agreements.

- Reimbursement Schedule: Skywise Guardianship establishes a reimbursement schedule outlining the timing of payments to homestay hosts. Payments are typically made on a regular basis, depending on the agreed-upon terms.

- Payment Methods: Payments to homestay hosts are made through electronic funds transfer, direct deposit, or other secure payment methods agreed upon by both parties. This ensures timely and secure transactions.

 

Overall, Skywise Guardianship prioritizes prompt and transparent payment processes for homestays, ensuring that financial agreements are honored and expenses are reimbursed in a timely manner. This approach fosters positive relationships with homestay hosts and helps maintain high standards of service for students participating in educational programs.

 

Your contract and cancelling the agreement

Here's an outline of the contract terms and conditions for terminating the agreement between Skywise Guardianship and homestays, including the procedures for termination and the notice periods for both parties:

 

1. Formal Contract:

- Skywise Guardianship enters into a formal contract with each homestay provider outlining the terms and conditions of the agreement. This contract specifies the responsibilities of both parties, including payment terms, service expectations, and termination procedures.

- The contract is legally binding and serves as the governing document for the relationship between Skywise Guardianship and the homestay provider.

 

2. Termination Procedures:

- Homestay Termination: The homestay provider may terminate the contract with Skywise Guardianship by providing written notice of termination. The notice period for termination is 90 days.

- Guardianship Organisation Termination: Similarly, Skywise Guardianship reserves the right to terminate the contract with the homestay provider by providing written notice of termination. The notice period for termination is also 90 days.

 

3. Notice Periods:

- The notice period required for termination allows both parties to plan for the transition and make alternative arrangements if necessary.

- The specific notice period is 30 days.

 

4. Termination Reasons:

- The contract may specify certain reasons for termination, such as breach of contract, failure to meet service expectations, or changes in circumstances that affect the viability of the agreement. Both parties are expected to adhere to the terms of the contract and act in good faith throughout the duration of the agreement.

 

5. Documentation and Compliance:

- Upon termination of the contract, both Skywise Guardianship and the homestay provider are responsible for fulfilling any remaining obligations outlined in the contract, such as final payments or the return of security deposits.

 

- Skywise Guardianship maintains documentation of the termination process to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and to facilitate a smooth transition to alternative arrangements, if necessary.

 

By including clear provisions for contract termination in the formal agreement between Skywise Guardianship and homestay providers, both parties can effectively manage the termination process and uphold their respective obligations under the contract.

 

Responsibilities during a pandemic

Pandemics can cause major disruption to travel and schooling. It is important in such events that Skywise Guardianship takes advice from the government, the UK Health Security Agency and the World Health Organisation. AEGIS also provides guidance for members to follow. This is regularly updated as a situation develops. Usually, in a pandemic it is important to restrict movement so as not to spread the disease further. That means boarding school students would usually remain at school. In the event of a pandemic Skywise Guardianship may not be able to offer homestay accommodation as this could place students, homestay families and the wider community at risk. Skywise Guardianship will work with parents to find flights to home countries where required. Skywise Guardianship will work with schools to meet students’ needs during a pandemic. This could be by helping to support students to learn remotely as directed by the school. Skywise Guardianship will work with parents and schools to find suitable quarantine accommodation for students where required.