A typical day with us will be structured, engaging and centred on helping our guest feel comfortable, included and confident in speaking English.
Before our guest arrives — or within the first couple of days of their stay — we will take time to learn as much as possible about their interests, hobbies and preferences. Although we have our own routines and favourite activities, we are open-minded and will always take our guest’s interests into account when planning the week. We want them to feel happy, involved and genuinely excited about each day.
A typical weekday might begin with an early morning walk or light jog in the local park with our dog, Teddy. It’s a lovely way to start the day and experience a real London neighbourhood. During the walk, we naturally speak in English and encourage relaxed conversation. We often meet local residents along the way, giving our guest the opportunity to hear different accents and practise speaking in authentic, everyday situations.
After our walk, we enjoy breakfast together around the table. This is an important time for conversation, planning the day ahead and helping our guest build confidence in a supportive and welcoming environment.
During term time, I am at work on most weekdays. During this time, my boyfriend — who has many years of experience teaching and coaching — organises structured and supervised activities. These may include attending local language exchange events, visiting attractions, practising English in cafés or markets, or taking part in creative or cultural activities. Each day includes meaningful social interaction to help develop fluency and confidence. We are fortunate to have a library very close to our home, so we can make regular visits for our guest to explore a wide selection of books or enjoy quiet study time if they wish.
Depending on the age of our guest, we can also arrange suitable local activities. This could include fitness sessions, sports clubs, dance classes or other youth programmes. My boyfriend is well known in the local community and is therefore well placed to find appropriate and enjoyable activities. As a family, we ensure that our guest arrives at each activity safely and returns home securely.
In the evenings, we spend time together as a family. This might include cooking dinner together, playing board games, enjoying cultural evenings, attending local events, going for a walk, or simply relaxing and chatting about the day. At weekends, we can explore different parts of London, visit museums, markets and parks, or attend special events.
We will also clearly explain how our home works — including meal times, routines and expectations — so our guest feels secure and settled from the very beginning.
Above all, we welcome our guest as part of our family. Our aim is for them to feel safe, included, supported and proud of the progress they make during their stay with us.