Accommodation
1. Homestay
Accommodation is arranged personally by Christine Vernède, the Principal's wife, with local British people, usually within walking distance of the school.
Unless otherwise requested, accommodation is in single rooms which are always inspected to make sure they are suitable. The majority of our host families take only one student, but if there are two students with one family, they will be of different nationalities (except in the case of married couples or partners, and for some participants in closed group courses)
A few homestay providers are able to offer private bathroom facilities (at extra cost). However, this type of accommodation is in short supply and cannot be guaranteed at all times.
Breakfast and evening meals are provided during the week (Mon - Fri) and a third light meal at weekends, if desired. Students can buy their weekday lunches at the local pubs and shops, or cook something for themselves in the student kitchens.
We strongly recommend this type of arrangement, as it provides further opportunities for practising English outside the school and an insight into the British way of life. Many students form lasting friendships with their host families and return to visit them in future years. Several host families have also been invited to visit students in their home countries.
We think our host families are of a very high standard and we very much appreciate the support they give us. We believe that accommodation in a host family or private home represents the best value when compared with other types of accommodation and we know that a happy experience in this area is an essential part of the overall success of the student's stay. We find that the majority of our families take personal pride in looking after the student or students in their charge and that students feel welcome in their homes as well as in the village in general. We try as far as possible to integrate host families into the life of the school by inviting them to social functions and school parties.
Although we have very few problems with regard to accommodation, we recognise the fact that what is an ideal family for one student is not always right for the next one, and occasionally we have to make a change, either at the student's request or that of the family. Where this happens, we always act quickly to solve the problem and, in our experience, it is then unusual for us to have to make further changes.
In order to help us in making the right choice of host family, we always appreciate it when students themselves, or agents on their behalf, provide full information on their enrolment forms concerning individual wishes or requirements.
Arrival and Departure:
Unless otherwise agreed, students should arrange to arrive on the Sunday before their course begins and to leave on or before the Saturday following the end of their course.
It is very important that students inform us, or the homestay provider, in advance about their estimated time of arrival, as without this information the hosts cannot plan their weekend so as to ensure that someone is at home to welcome them.
2. Hotel / Guesthouse
Hotel or guest house accommodation may be chosen if preferred. However, supply is limited, so early booking is essential.
For accommodation fees please see current calendar of dates and fees.