Homestay Selection Process
New host families are recruited from loyal, long-standing homestays who refer interested people to our program. Newspaper advertisements and social media are avoided to eliminate any potential risks and dangers that may be associated with those who apply.
Once a referral is received an appointment with all family members is scheduled. The interview process takes approximately two hours. In addition to learning more about the family, the homestay manager will discuss the following topics:
- The online application that gives us pertinent information about the hosts
- A brief description of the programs offered by Canadian International Services
- Policies, expectations and responsibilities of each homestay
- Guidelines for composing a letter to the student
- Homestay Handbook, with tips and suggestions for hosting families, as well as cultural information
Also during the interview, profiles of the students are introduced, viewed and explained. Potential homestays read the information and then choose the student they feel would best complement their family.
The homestay manager will conduct a tour of the home and room where the student will stay with a focus on safety: ie fire standards, access to bathroom, window in the room etc. Families have the opportunity to ask any questions they may have about the hosting process and the program.
Upon completion of the interview process, families have a clear understanding of Canadian International Services and the summer program and have been provided with all necessary documentation and contact information.
