Where Hospitality Meets Language Learning

Hosting with OLA is a unique opportunity to open your home to international students, providing them with a warm and immersive environment to enhance their language learning experience. It gives you a chance to play a crucial role in creating a supportive and enriching atmosphere, encouraging language practice and cultural exploration.

OLA values the bonds formed between hosts and students, recognising the profound impact these relationships have on the language acquisition journey. Join our network of hosts dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of language learners, and embark on a rewarding adventure of cross-cultural connection and mutual learning.

Meet some of our Host Families

Hosting with OLA is all about connection, sharing stories, meals, and moments that make language learning feel personal. Our families offer a warm welcome and a true home-from-home for students from around the world.

Here’s a glimpse into the lives of some of our wonderful hosts and the bonds they’ve built along the way.

“I have first-hand experience working with Offaly Language Academy. Cannot recommend them enough. An excellent standard of teaching combined with a fun and a safe environment ensures students have memories that last a lifetime”

Chris, Former OLA Teacher

“I had a fantastic experience with Offaly Language Academy! The team is super professional, friendly, and truly dedicated to helping students succeed. The classes are well-structured, engaging, and tailored to individual needs. Highly recommend to anyone looking to improve their language skills in a supportive environment!”

Ebony, Student
“I’ve hosted students from Offaly Language Academy and there’s never been a problem from start to finish, Una and Nessa have everything organised from the time the students land in Ireland until they depart, they are constantly in contact with host families and are at the end of phone line 24 hours a day. I look forward to working with the girls again this summer, they are a pleasure to work with.”
Deirdre, Host
“Amazing people with such a wonderful passion for teaching and languages. Incredibly well run language school with plenty of fun and exciting activities in a beautiful town.”
Eve, Student
“I had a great stay there despite the rain because the good humor of all the speakers and teachers made every day sunny. I think it’s one of the best ways to improve your English while having a great vacation.”
Gabrielle, Student

FAQ’s

Got questions about hosting? We’ve answered some of the most common ones below to help you get started.

You need to provide: A bed, a place for them to unpack their suitcase, breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, one clothes wash a week (Can be added to a family wash if easier).

No, you do not need to have children living in your house to host with us.

No, the student can share with a child in the family, or can share with another international student, depending on suitability.

No. If there is a certain date you are unable to host the student, we will arrange alternative accommodation for them for the night/s in question.

No. Unless there is something the student specifically doesn’t like, we ask that the family cook and eat what they normally would, and include the student in the normal, family meal times.

Yes. You can specify on the application form if you would prefer a male or female student.

We offer around- the- clock support and are available to answer the phone at any time. If there are any issues while you are hosting the student, we will do our best to resolve it as quickly and efficiently as possible.

No. The student is here for a cultural experience and wants to see what an Irish household looks like. We ask that you include the student in your normal evening activities e.g. walking the dog, helping cook dinner, watching a film, playing a board game etc. Some of our students have permission to go out in the evenings to spend time with their friends. This is subject to your permission also.

Yes. If you have neighbours hosting with us, you can carpool or take it in turns to collect or drop the student to school

Become a Host

If you’re interested in becoming a host, simply complete the form below, and a member of our team will be in touch.