By Mandy Moraes, NLPS staff
For international students studying in Nanaimo, the experience extends far beyond the classroom.
Students from around the world join sports teams, explore Vancouver Island, and form meaningful friendships in Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools.
Grade 11 student Emma Stan travelled from Germany to study in Nanaimo, drawn by Vancouver Island’s natural beauty and Wellington Secondary’s track-and-field opportunities. Since arriving, she has thrown herself into school life, athletics and exploring the community with her host family.
“I found lots of good friends,” she said. “One of my favourite parts was joining the track club.”
Stan trains three times a week and competes at Island and Lower Mainland meets. She connects with other students, continues her sport, and volunteers at elementary track events.
Outside school, Emma hikes, kayaks, bikes, and explores Vancouver Island with her host family. She values the outdoor lifestyle during her year abroad.
Grade 12 student Jack Sepp from Spain attends Dover Bay Secondary and values its supportive environment.
“The teachers are so nice,” she said. “They actually care about you, and they really want you to learn.”
Sepp values teachers who build relationships and focus on student well-being. While adapting, she travels Vancouver Island and beyond with her host family, visiting Tofino, Victoria, Whistler, and Alberta.
Her friendships are among the most meaningful parts of her experience.
“Just hanging out with my friends every day, going to the mall with them or going to a lake, those are the things I’ll remember,” she said.
At John Barsby Secondary, Grade 11 student Jael Keel has taken advantage of opportunities that weren’t available to her back home in Switzerland. She has explored electives such as drama and culinary arts while also getting involved in cross-country, track and school productions.
Outside school, Keel camps, fishes, hikes Mount Benson, and explores the Nanaimo River with her host family.
“The nature is so close,” she said. “There are a lot of beautiful places to see.”
Each student’s connections with classmates, teachers, and host families make their time in Nanaimo memorable.
International students enrich schools through sports, volunteering, and friendships, gaining lasting experiences and perspectives.
Are you ready to make a lasting impact on a student’s life and share the best of Nanaimo and Vancouver Island? Become a homestay family with Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools! Host families help students from across the world discover our community and receive a monthly honorarium of $1200 to cover expenses such as meals and daily living costs.
NLPS homestay coordinators provide hands-on guidance, resources, and a 24/7 emergency support line so you can welcome international students with confidence.
Online application form can be accessed here.