The number of hosts has fallen to its lowest level in 10 years.
The school lost two-thirds of business overnight when the Covid pandemic began, according to director Anna Lisa Detassis, who was not expecting to also see a drop in host families.
‘We normally pool over 40 host families, but suddenly we are left with 12,’ she said.
‘It’s been very, very difficult.’
There are 20 students aged 13-17 still in need of somewhere to stay who are due in the island from 9 or 11 until 23 July.
Others will also be visiting the island between 16 and 30 July.
‘In their development as a young person, it’s a great experience,’ Ms Detassis said.
‘It’s an opportunity for them to experience a different culture and gives independence, as it’s not always emotionally easy, being away from family.’
Families with a spare room are encouraged to come forwards. They will be paid £25 per day to cover food expenses, students will be out of the house all day, and they will not need transport.
‘It’s less work than it sounds,’ Ms Detassis said.
‘We tried everything possible to help.’
She said the students’ visits would give them the chance to experience life in Guernsey, as well as being able to practise their English.
‘They love Guernsey and it’s safe for their parents’ state of mind,’ she added.
‘It’s good for the island and it’s a great thing to do.’
In previous years, students have remained in touch with their host families, and some children have come on repeat trips.
‘Some of them have really forged friendships over the years.’
If host families can not be found, the trips could have to be cancelled, which would be difficult for the business, Ms Detassis said, which was still struggling with the after-effects of the pandemic.
‘It took years to build up to this level,’ she added.
‘Nobody offers the services we do – if people can’t support us with this, then what can we do?’
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