Becoming a homestay host: Q&A with Rachel

For Rachel and her family, becoming a homestay host is a decision they’ve never looked back from. Impressed with the calibre of programs on offer at Kelvin Grove State College (KGSC), including the Queensland Ballet Academy’s professional ballet and dance training program, Rachel saw an opportunity to enrich their family with the experience of hosting an older ‘sibling’ for her younger children, and particularly one that balanced their passion with quality education. Here, Rachel shares insight into the ins and outs of being a homestay host to ballerina-in-training, Ella.

Why did you decide to become a homestay host?

Initially, we were made aware by a family member of the opportunity to host students from Kelvin Grove State College Schools of Excellence and QB Academy’s program. We saw this as an opportunity to enrich our family with the experience of having an older sibling focused on balancing both education and training in their chosen field….and we live nearby and had plenty of room in our house to accommodate a student in need of a family home environment. Ella is now our third homestay child, which tells you how much we have valued the experience so far!

Who else is in your family?

We are a family of four, we have two children aged 14 and 12, and we also have pets.

Did you know Ella prior to the homestay?

We were fortunate to have met Ella before she came to live with us. My two previous homestay sons were international and we had never met them prior. We had one brother and then very happily accommodated his younger brother.

What was your connection to Kelvin Grove State College?

We don’t have a personal connection and our children don’t attend KGSC or Queensland Ballet Academy. We live close by, however, and following our experience and awareness of the Schools of Excellence and programs on offer at KGSC and QB Academy, we have been impressed with the calibre of opportunities on offer for those students who wish to pursue their passion and a solid education. The programs are comprehensive, consider the whole student – personal, educational, and physical aspects necessary to be the best version of themselves. I have attended the orientation evenings and was thoroughly impressed by the additional supports offered to these students including world renown allied health practitioners.

How did Ella find the process of settling into your family when she first arrived?

Fortunately, Ella knew us personally however like any change, there is an initial settling in period. This happened very quickly. Ella is very independent and so has been easy and an absolute pleasure to welcome into our family. We also took the time to meet Ella’s parents to ensure that they could entrust her in our care. We do maintain a connection with all our homestay children and Ella is no different.

How long has she stayed with you so far?

Two years!

What are you and your family enjoying about the experience?

We love the role model that Ella is for our children – in every aspect, particularly her focus and commitment on her schooling and ballet. Ella has also demonstrated exceptional resilience when returning from an injury, which for me and our family has been an incredible achievement to observe. Ella returned better than ever, so very impressive.

It has also been a joy to watch Ella mature and independently obtain employment and her driver’s licence. We have also loved the connection that she has formed, especially with our daughter. I have also personally loved engaging with Ella on highlights from our week.

What would you say to others who may be considering becoming a homestay family/host? Would you recommend it?

I actively promote the opportunity to become a homestay family and would recommend it. Personally, I take the time to engage with the student and their family before they move in to understand their values, how much or how little support they need. I would also recommend that you maintain open communication with your student and respect their boundaries. I accept that I will never be their parent, more a mentor type role and always be there when they need.

It is important to explore their likes, preferences and I encourage them to be as independent as possible, within reason. I encourage my students to be an active member of our family and invite them to family activities although am not worried if they politely decline. Basically, I approach the experience as if my children were undertaking the homestay experience and ask myself – how would I like my child to be treated and supported during their final years at school?

Anything else you would like to add?

Our family has benefited from being a homestay family and has formed lifelong friendships as a result. It is an experience I would highly recommend, especially if your children value the importance of education and pursing their chosen sport or passion.