Guardianship
Guardianship is a formal arrangement where a trusted adult in the destination country takes responsibility for a minor student's welfare. Most UK boarding schools and some universities require international students under 18 to have a registered UK guardian.
What You Need to Know
Legal Requirement
UK boarding schools require all international students under 18 to have a designated UK guardian. This is not optional — failure to appoint one can affect the student's visa and enrolment.
School Coordination
Guardians act as the point of contact for the school during emergencies, parents' meetings, exeat weekends, and end-of-term travel arrangements.
Holiday Accommodation
During school holidays, guardians provide accommodation and ensure the student's safety, particularly during short exeat weekends when returning to India isn't practical.
Regulated Agencies
Choose agencies registered with AEGIS (Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students) — the UK's quality assurance body for guardianship services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guardianship — Expert Guidance from Right Directions
For families sending younger students to boarding schools and colleges in the UK and other countries, guardianship is a critical welfare and legal requirement. Right Directions helps families understand guardianship obligations, choose the right agency, and ensure their child has proper adult support throughout their international education journey.