Many UK boarding schools require international students under 18 to have a UK-based educational guardian as part of their safeguarding and welfare arrangements. Guardians provide emergency support, liaise with the school, and assist students when parents are overseas.

Educational Guardian
Provides ongoing welfare support, emergency assistance, and regular communication with the student, parents, and school.

Nominated Guardian
A named responsible adult in the UK, such as a relative, family friend, or professional guardianship organisation. They may provide support when needed but may not offer the full range of educational guardianship services.

A good place to start is AEGIS (Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students), the UK’s independent accreditation body for guardianship organisations. AEGIS-accredited organisations meet recognised safeguarding and welfare standards.

A guardian supports students by:

• Acting as a 24/7 emergency contact

• Communicating with all parties such as parents, schools, students, host families, and agents

• Supporting student welfare and wellbeing

• Arranging accommodation when required

• Organising travel and transport

• Assisting during illness, emergencies, or unexpected situations

Yes, depending on the guardian’s service package, arrangements, and availability. Some guardians provide accommodation directly, while others arrange approved host families. Additional fees may apply.

In many cases, yes. However, they must meet the school’s safeguarding requirements and any applicable visa or immigration requirements. Final approval is subject to the school’s policy.

For students who live at school or on campus full-time and do not require homestay accommodation, our Emergency Package or Partial Package is usually the most suitable option. We are happy to recommend the best package based on your child’s individual needs.

Any refund request will be considered in accordance with Prima Guardian’s Terms and Conditions and cancellation policy. We recommend reviewing these documents before purchasing our services.

* Comprehensive Package: Up to three school visits per academic year

* Partial/Emergency Package: At least one school visit per academic year

Visits are subject to school arrangements and individual circumstances.

Our Cultural and Language Services help students adjust to life in the UK while maintaining confidence in their own cultural background. Support may include Thai language assistance, cultural guidance, wellbeing support, and communication assistance between students, parents, and schools.

These services are included in both the Comprehensive and Partial/Emergency Packages. Additional services may be available to non-members for an extra fee.

We do not charge hidden fees. However, some services are not included in the annual guardianship fee and may incur additional charges, including:

• Airport transfers and transport

• Homestay accommodation

• Additional school, college, or university visits

• UK SIM card services

• Personal Assistance (PA) services

• Online shopping assistance

• Other services requested by parents or students

Where possible, parents will be informed of any additional charges in advance.

Prima Guardian offers personalised support with a strong understanding of both British and Southeast Asian cultures. We provide assistance in Thai, English, and Lao, helping students and families feel supported throughout their educational journey in the UK.

With over 12 years of experience living in the UK, we understand the challenges international students may face and provide practical, culturally sensitive support focused on safeguarding, wellbeing, and successful integration into UK life.