International students whose parents live overseas must appoint a UK-based guardian.
Guardianship for International Students
Ratcliffe College requires all international students whose parents live overseas to have a suitable educational guardian based in the UK. This guardian provides support during term time and holidays and acts as the main contact between the family and Ratcliffe College. This guardian must be appointed by the parents, who are responsible for keeping the school informed of their contact details at all times.
Ratcliffe College is a proud member of AEGIS (the Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students), whose accredited organisations can support families in selecting a reliable and appropriate guardian.
School Support
Ratcliffe College provides outstanding pastoral care that complements the role of an educational guardian. Our Student Support Services team is staffed by registered nurses, Wellbeing Officer, we work closely with local medical services, and we offer access to counselling and pastoral support when needed. Boarding students also benefit from supervised study, activities, and an experienced boarding team who ensure students feel safe, supported and at home.
For further information, parents are welcome to contact our Admissions Team at [email protected].
Providing 24-hour emergency contact
Coordinating travel and accommodation during holidays
Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult to and from their place of departure
Attending school events and parent meetings
Supporting the pupil’s academic and personal wellbeing
The guardian must be UK-based, over 25, and have a clean safeguarding and criminal record
A guardian is an educational guardian, who you appoint to represent you while your child is studying in the UK. A guardianship organisation will help you find the right guardian for you and your child. Ratcliffe College is a member of AEGIS (the Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students), which can assist in selecting a suitable guardian.
All international students studying at Ratcliffe College with parents living overseas must have a UK-based guardian.This guardian will act as your representative and support your child while they are in the UK.
Your child’s guardian will act on your behalf, attending meetings with school staff and letting you know what is discussed. They will help your child adapt to their new surroundings and school regulations, taking an active part in their school life. Guardians may also book flights, arrange transport from the school or airport at the beginning and end of all holiday periods. Guardians must be available as a 24 hour emergency contact.
Ratcliffe College offers Half Term School Holiday Stays for boarding and external boarding students during the October, February, and May half terms. These stays include meals, accommodation, social activities, and trips, allowing students to maintain a routine and explore interests in a familiar environment. Find out more here.
