checklist for international students starting school in January
essential tips for overseas parents and how Bright World Guardianships can help
get organised for a January school start
Bright World Guardianships offers key support services to children from overseas who are studying at UK boarding schools. Having a UK-based guardian is a requirement of schools and the UK Border Agency because we are here to help in emergency situations and to make sure children are safe and in good hands when they are not in school.
If you are an overseas parent preparing your child to start school in January, there are important steps to ensure a smooth transition. From securing a trusted guardian to organising a host family and airport pickup, this guide will help you prepare your child for their January start date.
Read more about our Guardianship Service here.
key travel documents
- Guardianship documentation: Bright World has to sign documentation as well as parents provided by the school to prove we are the guardian for children. Please make sure you have completed your Guardianship Form for your school and make sure your child travels with these details as the border agency may require proof of a registered guardian for your child on arrival.
- Valid passport: Ensure your child’s passport is up-to-date (valid for at least six months beyond their stay).
- Student visa: Verify the student visa requirements are aligned with the January start date, allowing entry in time for orientation or pre-term events.
- School enrolment & acceptance letter: Ensure you have the acceptance documents and proof of enrolment for your child’s new school with you on your journey.
- Flight booking confirmation: Double-check flight details tally with school start dates and times exactly to ensure timely arrival in January, and if they don't get in touch with your guardian who can help with a host family to fill any gaps.
- Airport transfer confirmation: make sure your child has the profile of the Bright World driver collecting them from the airport on their phone. This has a photo ID and his or her phone number and the border officers may want to see it.
- Mobile Phone number - please make sure we have your and your child's correct mobile phone numbers when you enrol so we can easily connect with you in an emergency or to relay important information about your arrival to you while you are in transit.
a trusted Guardian and host family for exeats and half terms
- Find a reliable guardian: For all boarding schools, appointing a guardian is a mandatory requirement. A trusted guardian can assist with emergencies, liaise with the school, and provide general support while your child adjusts to their new environment in January.
- Why it is important: A good guardian is a critical resource for parents overseas, offering peace of mind that someone is available to manage unexpected issues, such as health concerns or school-related matters, during the academic year.
- Host family for January exeats and other holidays: Many schools have exeats, and all have half term breaks where students must leave the campus. Arranging a host family for exeats in advance ensures your child has a safe and supportive environment to stay in when school is not in session.
- Why it is important: A welcoming host family can help your child feel more at home during school breaks, providing emotional and cultural support, particularly during January when holidays like New Year’s may still be ongoing.
clothing for the January term
- School uniform: If a school uniform is required, make sure it’s purchased before departure - as guardians we can help with this if you need us to.
- Winter clothing: Starting school in January often means colder weather, so pack warm winter clothing such as coats, scarves, gloves, and boots. Ensure your child is ready for the season.
- Seasonal footwear: Rain or even snow is common in January—pack waterproof boots or shoes.
- School sportswear: If your child will be participating in sports, confirm what equipment or attire is needed for the winter term.
pre-arranged airport transportation
- Reliable airport pickup: Organise a trusted airport transfer service for your child’s arrival. A reliable driver will ensure they are picked up safely and brought directly to their school or host family.
- Why it is important: January can be a busy and potentially stressful time for travel due to weather delays and high traffic. Pre-arranging transport guarantees that your child’s journey from the airport to school is smooth, minimising any post-flight stress.
finance and communication
- SIM card & local phone plan: Research local SIM cards or international phone plans for your child to ensure they are connected immediately upon arrival. January can be a busy travel month, so staying connected is crucial.
- International chargers/adapters: Bring the correct chargers and adapters to suit the local plug types.
- Read our Pre-Arrival Guide for more information - your Guardianship Care Manager will send you a copy before your child departs.
Starting school in January can be both exciting and challenging for international students. Securing a trusted guardian and arranging a host family for exeats are essential to your child’s safety and well-being. A pre-arranged airport transfer ensures they arrive smoothly, especially during the busy post-holiday travel period. These steps will help you as a parent feel confident that your child is in good hands as they begin their academic journey in January, ensuring a successful and secure transition.
