Why use a Guardian?

In the UK British boarding schools will not admit an overseas pupil under the age of 18 unless he or she has a local guardian appointed. Without the appointment of a UK guardian the pupil will in effect be unable to get a Visa as the school will not sponsor them so it is important that parents have their guardianship arrangements in place early.

If you do not have a family member in the UK or someone who will act as your child guardian, you need to appoint a UK based guardianship service who perform several roles. They provide a place for your child to stay during the – sometimes numerous – school holidays (and many schools also have compulsory exeats and half-term breaks when all pupils have to leave the school).

They may also need to serve as your representatives, making some decisions for your child, signing forms, attending parents’ evenings and being available in an emergency – for instance, if your child falls ill or is temporarily or permanently excluded from school (it happens more often than you think).

Guardians may need to assist with transport to and from school or from airports etc.
In addition, they are sometimes required to act as a sort of bank, managing pocket money, funds for school trips etc. In general, the younger the pupil, the more comprehensive the service will need to be.

Remember it is important to choose the right guardianship provider who will provide the care and focus on your child’s welfare.

At GIS our focus is on your child’s welfare and happiness and we truly believe if these are both positive your child will get the most out of their time as a pupil in the UK.