DCU International Academy offers Host Family-based Ministay Programmes for high school groups, combining English language tuition with the opportunity to experience life with a local Irish Host Family. Students participate in classes, activities and excursions while enjoying an immersive cultural experience in Dublin.
Programme Overview
Our Ministay Programmes combine General English tuition, Host Family accommodation, full-board meals, social activities and excursions, return airport transfers and ongoing support from our experienced team throughout the programme.
Key Information
- Students stay with carefully selected, police-checked Host Families.
- Students are accommodated in groups of 2 or 3 students sharing a bedroom.
- Host Families provide full-board meals, including breakfast, a packed lunch and dinner.
- Host Families can accommodate students with special dietary requirements.
- Students attend General English tuition in group-specific classes.
Other Information
- Minimum programme duration is 7 days / 6 nights. Longer stays can be arranged.
- Minimum group size is 10 students.
- DCU International Academy provides certification to meet Ministay / PCTO requirements and can assist group leaders with relevant paperwork.
- Evening activities are not provided for Host Family programmes due to policy requirements.
- A sample programme timetable is available for further information.
Please Note:
- Host Family Ministay Programmes are designed for high school groups.
- Programmes are subject to availability.
Programme Dates & Information
Host Family Ministay Programmes are available from September to April each year, subject to availability. Midweek arrival and departure is possible. Please contact us for further information.
What is Included?
- General English tuition for students in group-specific classes
- Host Family Accommodation – 2 or 3 students sharing a bedroom
- Full-board meals, including a packed lunch provided by the Host Family
- Social activities, using public transport
- Excursions at weekends, using public transport
- Return Dublin Airport transfers by private coach with DCU staff
- Possibility of midweek arrival and departure
- Dedicated Programme Manager for your group
- 24/7 emergency contact number
- DCU Learning Journal for each student
- DCU International Academy Certificates for participants
Accommodation
- Students stay with carefully selected, police-checked Host Families.
- 2 or 3 students from the group share a bedroom.
- Host Family accommodation provides students with the opportunity to experience everyday life in an Irish home during their stay.
- Host Families can accommodate students with special dietary requirements.
Meals
- Students receive full-board meals while staying with their Host Family.
- Host Families provide breakfast, a packed lunch and dinner.
- Special dietary requirements can be accommodated.
Airport Transfers
- Return Dublin Airport transfers are provided by private coach with DCU staff.
- Midweek arrival and departure is possible.
Activities & Excursions
- Social activities are included as part of the programme and students travel by public transport.
- Weekend excursions are included, with travel by public transport.
Why Choose DCU for Host Family Ministay Programmes?
- English language tuition combined with an immersive Host Family experience
- Carefully selected and police-checked Host Families
- Full-board accommodation
- Programme of social activities and weekend excursions
- Dedicated Programme Manager for your group
- 24/7 emergency contact number
- DCU Learning Journal and Certificate for participants
Who Should Attend This Programme?
This programme is suitable for:
- High school groups looking to develop their English language skills
- Students who want to experience living with a local Irish Host Family
- Groups looking for a combination of English tuition, activities and cultural experiences
Make an Enquiry / Request a Proposal
For further information, availability or to request a proposal, please contact us, stating the following information:
- Desired period of attendance (including dates)
- Number of students and leaders, including approximate ages of students
- Any special requirements
Sample Programme Timetable
Based on 7 Days and 6 Nights duration
