Accomodation
All international students at HGHS must live in accommodation approved by the school either with host families, a parent or close family relatives or friends as designated caregivers.
Host Families
HGHS manages its own homestay programme with a homestay coordinator on site and available to students and families during the school day.
In the selection and monitoring of our host families we always consider ‘if one of our daughters was to study overseas, what sort of environment, care and support would we want for them?’
Prospective host families undergo a strict selection process including an interview, reference checks, Police vetting and a home visit to ensure they will provide a caring and comfortable environment for a student to live. Students can expect their own fully-furnished room, all meals including lunch/snacks to bring to school, and will have their laundry done.
Most importantly they will become part of their new Kiwi family and be made to feel at home.
In order for the best possible placement to be made it is important that all information requested in the application form is completed.
Living with a Parent
Parents may live in New Zealand to care for their child while they study on a Student Visa. It is a parent’s responsibility to provide the school with their local address and contact details, and to advise of any changes. HGHS requires the parent to provide evidence of a current Visa.
Designated Caregivers
A designated caregiver is a relative or close family friend known to the student’s parents. The designated caregiver must agree to be interviewed, provide references, agree to a New Zealand Police Vet of all members of their household over 18 years of age, and agree to an initial, and from time to time additional, home visits.
Before a student can be placed with a Designated Caregiver the Agreement (contained in the application form) must be completed and signed by all parties.
JOIN THE HGHS HOST FAMILY PROGRAMME
Do you have room for one more young person in your home?
Would you be keen to show them our wonderful Kiwi hospitality and lifestyle, involve them in family life and support them throughout their time in Hamilton?
Hamilton Girls’ High School is looking for host families for international students arriving in January and throughout the year.
Long term (1 year +) and short term (1-2 terms) placements will be needed.
Host families will need to provide the student with
- a comfortable, well furnished bedroom
- a caring, inclusive, family environment
- all meals including school lunches/snacks; laundry
- support with their study, English language and activities
In return families will receive
- weekly remuneration to cover costs
- excellent ongoing support from HGHS
- an opportunity to experience another culture and make global connections
Police vetting will need to be carried out for all household members over 18.
Interested?
For more information please read the Guidelines or contact the homestay coordinator Takako Smart ph 839 1304 ext 892 (school hours)
Complete a Host Family Application and send it to [email protected]