A Parent’s Guide to Yorkshire College
Sending your child to study abroad is a big decision. At Yorkshire College, we want parents to feel confident that students are supported, looked after and able to enjoy and benefit from their time in Leeds.
This guide answers some of the questions parents ask most about safeguarding, accommodation, communication, daily life and student welfare.
Who looks after students?
Our dedicated safeguarding leads and welfare leads are here to support students throughout their time at Yorkshire College. They provide guidance, help students settle into life in Leeds and are available 24/7 for when students need advice or support.
Students aged 16 and 17 receive an induction presentation at the start of their course to ensure they understand who they can speak to and where they can go for help.
All students are encouraged to talk to a member of our team if they have a concern, feel unwell, are worried about something or simply need someone to talk to.
Is Leeds safe for international students?
Leeds is a welcoming and diverse student city, with a large international community. As with any city, students are given guidance on staying safe, travelling around Leeds and knowing what to do if they need help.
We help students become familiar with their surroundings and make sure they know who to contact in an emergency or if they have a concern.
Where will my child live?
We offer accommodation options designed to give students a comfortable and supportive place to live while studying in Leeds. We have student accommodation options (shared flats and studios), as well as homestay options. We provide information about the accommodation before arrival so students and parents know what to expect.
Our student accommodation has 24-hour security. Yorkshire College staff also live on the premises to provide support and supervision. Students have the reassurance of knowing that there is always someone on site if they need assistance.
As for host families, we take the selection process seriously. All of our hosts are carefully vetted before welcoming students into their homes. We want every student to feel comfortable, respected and well cared for throughout their stay.
What is a typical week like?
Life at Yorkshire College is about more than time in the classroom.
Students attend English lessons during the week and have opportunities to meet other international students, explore Leeds and take part in activities and social experiences.
A typical week may include:
- English lessons and study time
- Social activities with other students
- Opportunities to explore Leeds
- Cultural experiences and trips
- Free time to relax, shop or spend time with friends
- Support from our welfare team when needed
We want students to become more confident not only in English, but also in navigating everyday life in a new country.
What happens if my child becomes ill?
If a student becomes unwell, they can speak to a member of our team for help and guidance. We can advise them on the appropriate next steps and, where necessary, help them access local medical services.
We also encourage students to tell us if they are feeling unwell rather than trying to manage everything on their own.
What if my child is worried or has a problem?
Students always have someone they can speak to.
Whether the issue is related to accommodation, school, friendships, homesickness or something more serious, our welfare team is available to listen and help.
We want students to feel comfortable asking for help early. There is no need to wait until a small concern becomes a big problem.
What can parents expect from Yorkshire College?
Our aim is to give students the freedom to grow in confidence while providing the support and guidance they need.
For parents, that means knowing that your child is not simply arriving at a new school and being left to manage everything alone. There is a team around them, from their first days in Leeds through to the end of their stay.
We want students to return home with stronger English, greater independence and fantastic memories of their time in Leeds.
