Homestay: Life With A Canadian Family

At Sacred Heart School of Halifax our philosophy toward our Homestay Program is very simple - our families are asked to not just open their home to an international student, but to open their hearts as well.

SHSH doesn’t offer a boarding program, but instead places international students directly into the homes of Canadian families here in Halifax. This much more personalized program means students are welcomed into a safe, caring, and supportive home environment and treated like part of a family. In this family atmosphere, they can practice their English, explore Halifax and Nova Scotia, and experience Canadian culture, all while attending SHSH with a small group of international students and domestic students.

We ask host families to treat their international student like one of their own children and to provide them with love, care, and support. They must provide them with their own fully-furnished and well-equipped bedroom and study area, ensure they have nutritious meals and snacks, and encourage them to participate in their day-to-day family life.

Families who host a student are provided with a monthly stipend to cover all related expenses. If you are interested in becoming a host family, you can apply here. An extensive vetting process will take place to ensure a good match between host families and international students. You can also contact Allison Englehart to find out more information about our homestay program.

"We have been hosting for 17 years and have experienced 25 students from 13 countries. The world has been opened to us in a unique way. Hosting an international student is an enriching experience and an opportunity to share our culture, activities, and province while learning about others."
- Cathy and Brian Targett