BOOK COURSE

Become a Host Family with Irish College of English

Welcome the world into your home. Share Irish culture. Make a lasting difference.

Have you ever considered welcoming an international student into your home? Becoming a host family with Irish College of English (ICE) is a wonderful opportunity to meet people from different cultures, share everyday Irish life and help students feel at home while studying in Ireland.

Established in 1992, Irish College of English has welcomed students from around the world to learn English and experience Irish culture. Our host families play an important role in making each student’s stay a memorable and rewarding experience.

  • Experience different cultures: Meet students from around the world and learn about their countries, traditions and lifestyles.
  • Share Irish life: Introduce students to everyday family life, Irish hospitality and local culture.
  • Make a difference: Help students practise their English and feel comfortable and supported while away from home.
  • Enjoy a rewarding experience: Many host families enjoy the friendships and cultural exchanges that develop through hosting.

What Does Hosting Involve?

Our students come to Ireland to improve their English and experience life in an Irish community. Host families provide a welcoming home environment where students can practise English and learn about local life.

As a host family, you will generally be expected to:

  • Provide a clean, comfortable and welcoming home.
  • Our homsetay option is full board breakfast, packed lunch and an evening meal.
  • Encourage students to speak English and participate in everyday family life.
  • Help students become familiar with the local area and family life.
  • Treat students with care, respect and consideration throughout their stay.

 

Students may stay for a short visit as part of a school group or for a longer individual language-learning programme, depending on the accommodation requirements.

How Does The Process Work?

  • Register your interest – Contact Irish College of English to tell us a little about your household and your interest in hosting. We place all students within a 4km radius from the school.
  • Arrange a home Inspection – We will discuss the accommodation requirements and arrange a visit to assess the suitability of your home.
  • Complete the necessary checks – Our team will guide you through the required Garda vetting and other relevant safeguarding procedures before hosting begins.
  • Find the right match – We consider factors such as availability, student age, household preferences and any relevant requirements when arranging placements.
  • Welcome your student – Our team will provide the relevant information and contact details to help you prepare for your student’s arrival.

Support from Irish College of English

You will not be on your own. Our team coordinates placements, communicates accommodation requirements and provides information to help host families prepare for their students.

We aim to create positive experiences for both students and hosts through clear communication, suitable placements and ongoing support throughout the stay. We offer competitive weekly payments and flexible hosting options allowing you to choose what works best for you and your family.

Interested in Becoming a Host Family?

If you have a spare room and would like to welcome international students into your home, we would love to hear from you.

Get in touch with Irish College of English to find out more about becoming a host family.

Contact us today to register your interest.

‘My host family are fantastic, very good and kind!!’
Ruben
Spain
‘My home stay experience was very good, I really felt at home and our host mum was lovely!’
Laura
Italy
‘Host Parents are very kind. They talk with us explain stories and cook well!’
Hannah
Austria
‘I have worked with the Irish College of English now for 12 years . The college provides clear information about students in advance so that the host can select the students that best suit them. I have always felt supported and as a host I feel appreciated & enjoy working with the staff in ICE ‘
Lisa
Malahide
‘I have been hosting with ICE for many years and can honestly say I’ve never had any complaints. They have always been on hand whenever I’ve needed anything, and the students I’ve hosted over the years have always matched exactly what I asked for. I hope to continue hosting with ICE for many more years to come!’ – Jackie, Portmarnock
Jackie
Portmarnock
‘All my interactions with ICE have been easy and positive. The booking method out of season works best for me, where I can see what is available and choose the groups that best suits. All the staff are extremely helpful, with a special call out to Emily and Loraine who are excellent and always so helpful’
Sarah
Malahide

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