SCU urgently seeking hosts for international students

Southern Cross University is urgently seeking Coffs Harbour residents who are willing to open their homes to students from China and Japan, who will be participating in short-term study tours in July and August this year.

The University’s English Language Centre provides short and long-term English language programs, attracting students from a wide range of countries, and is looking for residents in the Coffs Harbour area to host students in their homes.

An information night for anyone interested in participating in the Homestay program is being held on Tuesday, March 25, at 5.30pm in the Upper D Block Theatre, Coffs Harbour campus.

Nicky Dunstan, Homestay officer, said the Homestay program provided a range of benefits for the students and the families who hosted them.

“We have some very large study groups coming for short-stay programs in July and August and really need to boost the number of homestay families to accommodate theses students,” Ms Dunstan said.

The students in the study groups vary in age from 10 to 22, and are here for periods of two weeks.

“Living in an English-speaking home provides a great opportunity for our students, and at the same time families get to experience another culture without leaving home. For many couples and families with children, it’s a very rewarding activity,” Ms Dunstan said.

“We are looking for people who are located within about 30 minutes’ drive from the campus. Students can be hosted in twos, threes or fours.”

Host families receive a weekly payment and in return are expected to provide accommodation, transport to the Coffs Harbour campus, meals, access to household facilities and inclusion in family activities.

Families or individuals interested in hosting students for either short or long-term stays will need to undergo the Working with Children Check.

Ms Dunstan said a Homestay program family would be attending the information session and be available to answer questions.

For information contact email nicky.dunstan@scu.edu.au or phone 6659 3150

Photo caption: Long standing homestay hosts Elaine and Rob Cleary regularly host students from Japan and China.