- Living with an Australian host family
is a great way to experience Australia's fantastic lifestyle.
Homestay provides you with a caring and supportive home environment
where you can immerse yourself in your studies
and enjoy being part of a community.
EQI students say homestay
is one of their favourite experiences in Queensland.
Many make lifelong friendships
and stay connected with their hosts long after going home.
Homestay families are often members of the school community,
and some may have children at your EQI school.
Telling us about your personal preferences,
such as dietary, health and spiritual needs,
your hobbies and attitude to pets
helps us to place you with a family that best matches your needs.
Host families and their homes vary,
but all are thoroughly checked to ensure they provide you with
a safe, friendly and caring home environment.
In homestay, you live as one of the family,
so you'll be expected to help around the home.
This typically means keeping your bedroom tidy
and other light household tasks,
like washing the dishes or helping with meals.
You should always respect your homestay hosts and their home.
Your host family will be there to guide you
as you settle into the family's routine.
Always ask if you need help, or if there is anything that you do not understand.
Australian families usually eat their meals
in the kitchen, dining room or lounge room.
Having a barbecue or picnic outside is very popular.
Everybody helps to prepare the food and set and clear the table.
Mealtimes, especially dinner,
are perfect opportunities to practise your English
by telling your homestay family about your day.
Most homestay students will make their own way to school.
Depending on your location,
this could be walking, cycling or catching public transport.
Your host family will show you the best route
and how to use and pay for the bus, train or other forms of transport.
There are no classes at weekends,
so you can use your free time to enjoy different activities
and catch up with your friends.
Queensland's great weather, nature and outdoor lifestyle
make it ideal for trips to the beach,
bushwalking, festivals and sports.
In the cities, you'll find modern shopping centres,
international cuisine, museums,
galleries and lots of fun events to go to.
EQI students have access to multilingual support
and 24-hour emergency assistance.
Your school homestay coordinator
ensures you have a safe and enjoyable homestay experience.
Your care is their highest priority
so they are there to give you guidance and support.
Come and experience Queensland's famous hospitality
as part of your EQI education program.