Wiltshire Host Families are expanding their centre based in Melksham.
This expansion will enable the group to offer foreign school groups the opportunity to visit the sights of England and experience living with local host families.
Local co-ordinator Val Hopper explained, “Our groups will be coming from France, Germany, Spain and even Hungary, for three-four night stays between February and July each year beginning in February 2016.
“This means we are now starting our recruitment drive and will be looking for 20 local hosts who have a spare room and are able to take at least two students at a time (max four). The students will be aged 12-18 but we will also be recruiting hosts for the adults – teachers and drivers – who are housed on the same basis.
“There is no set criteria for becoming a host – single females, young couples, mature couples, single parents, families with or without children – everyone will be considered.
“The daily routine is very simple. Families will pick up their students at 6.30pm (or later) every evening from the Melksham Meeting Point at the Coop Car Park (Sandridge Rd) and will then take them home, give them dinner and chat with them in English until they shower and go to bed around 9.00pm.
“In the morning the students will be given breakfast and then provided with a packed lunch ready for their day out – which begins by 8.00am latest, back at the Meeting Point.
“Hosting is great fun! Not only is it a great opportunity for local households from Melksham, Bowerhill, Chippenham, Broughton Gifford, Semington and the surrounding villages to experience visitors from other cultures, but often strong friendships are forged – and the families get paid expenses too!
“I will be looking for hosts that will make the students feel really welcome and who will enjoy the experience of hosting themselves. If your house is clean and tidy and you have a spare room why not get in touch for more information?”
It will be Val’s job to vet the families and support them and the groups during their stays, so if you would like to find out more or register with Wiltshire Host Families for the coming season, please get in touch with Val now on 01225 405783 or visit www.wiltshirehostfamilies.co.uk
