Programs for Young Learners

Shafston offers three programs designed specifically for students under 18, each tailored to different age groups and learning goals.

Primary English Preparation (PEP)

English language preparation for primary-aged students. Available at Brisbane and Sydney campuses, following the school term calendar (10-week terms). Duration: 1–40 weeks, 20 hrs/week. Entry level: A1–B1.

High School Preparation (HSP)

English preparation for students entering the Australian high school system. Available at all three campuses (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney) with weekly intake every Monday. Duration: 1–64 weeks, 20 hrs/week. Entry level: A1–C1.

Young Learners Camp (YLC)

Short-term immersive English camp experience combining language learning with fun activities and cultural excursions. Duration: 1–5 weeks. Age: 7-17. Includes uniform. A great introduction to studying in Australia.

Homestay Options by Age

Homestay arrangements are tailored to each student’s age, with increasing levels of care and supervision for younger students.

Homestay Type Age Group Meals Includes
Half Board 16–17 years 2 meals/day weekdays, 3 meals/day weekends Private room, family support
Full Board 12–17 years 3 meals/day everyday Private room, all meals included
Extra Care ★ 12–15 years 3 meals/day everyday All meals, transport to/from college, laundry service

★ Extra Care homestay availability is limited. If unavailable, students may be placed in Full Board with the fee difference refunded. Twin room options are also available — please enquire for details.

Mandatory Welfare Arrangements

If Shafston provides welfare for the student, the following mandatory arrangements will be put in place to ensure their safety and wellbeing.

Supervised Homestay

Age-appropriate homestay for the entire duration of study — Extra Care (ages 12–15), Full Board (ages 12–17), or Half Board (ages 16–17), with carefully selected and vetted host families.

Airport Services

Greeting on arrival and departure assistance at the airport. A Shafston staff member will meet the student and ensure safe transfer to homestay.

Airport Check-in

Dedicated check-in service at the airport on departure day, ensuring students are safely checked in for their flight home.

Going the Extra Mile

Shafston takes pride in providing exceptional care for our under-18 students. Beyond mandatory requirements, we offer personalised support to help younger students thrive academically and socially.

  • 6-weekly progress reports with work samples sent to designated contacts
  • Fortnightly welfare meetings with a dedicated student welfare officer
  • 24/7 emergency phone support for students and parents
  • Regular communication with parents or guardians on student progress
  • Orientation program specifically designed for younger students
  • Social activities with supervised group events on weekends

Accommodation & Welfare (CAAW)

For students under 18, Shafston International College accepts responsibility for approving appropriate accommodation, support, and general welfare arrangements via a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter, as required under the National Code 2018, Standard 5.

1

Submit Application

Complete the enrolment form and indicate the student is under 18
2

Welfare Assessment

Shafston reviews accommodation and welfare requirements
3

CAAW Letter Issued

Official letter confirming welfare arrangements is provided
4

Visa Application

Use the CAAW letter as part of the student visa application

What Parents Need to Know

We understand that sending your child to study overseas is a big decision. Here’s what you can expect from Shafston.

✓  CRICOS registered — Shafston is registered on CRICOS to enrol students under 18 from overseas ✓  Homestay screening — All host families undergo thorough background checks and regular inspections
✓  Welfare officer — A dedicated student welfare officer is assigned to each under-18 student ✓  Regular updates — Parents receive progress reports and welfare check-in summaries
✓  Emergency contacts — 24/7 emergency support line available for students and parents ✓  National Code compliant — All processes follow Standard 5 of the National Code 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

Shafston accepts students from age 7 upwards. The Primary English Preparation (PEP) program is for students aged 7–12, while the High School Preparation (HSP) program is for students aged 12–17. Young Learners Camps are also available for short-term study experiences.

Yes. If the student has a relative in Australia who can provide appropriate accommodation and welfare, Shafston can approve this arrangement. The relative must be at least 21 years old and provide a statutory declaration.

Shafston provides a 24/7 emergency phone line. In case of medical or other emergencies, our welfare team will coordinate with local emergency services and immediately notify the student’s parents or designated contacts.

Extra Care homestay is designed for students aged 12–15 and includes a private room, three meals per day, daily transport to and from college, laundry service, and a host family specifically vetted for hosting younger students. Students aged 16–17 can choose Half Board (2 meals weekdays, 3 weekends) or Full Board (3 meals daily). Please note Extra Care availability is limited.

Yes. Unaccompanied Minor (UM) or Driver Assistance service on arrival, and Check-In/Driver Assistance on departure, is compulsory for students aged 12–15 on all visa types, and for students aged 16–17 who are under a Shafston CAAW or Form 1257. A late-night surcharge applies for flights between 10pm and 5am.