Lessons For Life

A not-for-profit programme which sees foreign students visiting the area is appealing for host families to get on board.

Education First (EF) is an international project incorporating the High School Year programme, which sees students from over 30 countries attending schools in the region for 10 months.

Havelock and Tollbar Academies have this year been home to eight Dutch, Swiss, Italian and German students, who have each attained AS-Levels while staying with local families.

The pupils have just come to the end of their stay; marking the occasions with a special celebratory event which was attended by the Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Cllr Mike Burton.

Wenzel Kriese (17) of Germany, who studied chemistry, biology, maths and French at Tollbar, threw himself into English life - taking on a paper round, playing cornet in a local brass band and studying for his driving test.

"I've been really happy with my host family which has been a big factor in how much I've enjoyed my stay, but the biggest benefit has been improving my language skills.

"The landscape here is very similar to where I live in Germany but the people are definitely more polite here with the habit of saying please and thank you.

"It was difficult getting used to a different school system but I've really enjoyed myself and would definitely recommend the experience."

Wenzel's host parent Gordon Watson, of Cleethorpes, said: "All my three children have long flown the nest so it's great for me to have young people around the house again.

"It's also good for international relations to have the chance to get to know people from other countries and cultures.

"This is the third year we have been a host family and I would certainly recommend it to anyone who wants the experience of an overseas student living with them."

EF is currently appealing for more host families in the area to get involved with the programme, with the only requirements being the ability to provide a room, meals and a stable and caring family.

Host parents must be at least 25 years of age and will receive an allowance to cover the student's expenses.

To find out more contact 0800 389 5850.

Article From The Cleethorpes Chronicle - Thursday 21 June 2012