A Trowbridge-based company that connects international students on exchange visits with host families in Wiltshire has been named Hosting Provider of the Year at the South West England Prestige Awards for the second year running.

Wiltshire Host Families Ltd, of Victoria Road, connects students aged 12-18 with welcoming host families across Wiltshire, offering them a genuine “home away from home”.

Students typically stay for three to five days, spending their days out and returning to their host families in the evenings, giving them an authentic taste of English family life.

The company has a network of 120 host families in Trowbridge, Westbury, Warminster, and Melksham providing family accommodation for international groups of school children.

The company’s director Valerie Rideout said: “Our mission is to give international students the opportunity to immerse themselves in UK culture in a safe and welcoming environment, while sharing cultural experiences with their host family.

“Wiltshire Host Families is proud to see returning schools each year. Many of its host families have been welcoming students for over a decade.”

Hosts receive £19 per student per night, rising to £20 in January 2025, with tax-free payments up to £7,500 through the government’s ‘rent a room’ scheme.

Jo Cass, operations manager of Wiltshire Host Families, said: “We are honoured by the continued recognition from the Prestige Awards.

“This award reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team and the wonderful host families who enhance these students’ school trip experiences.”