Oxford residents are being encouraged to consider hosting an international student as the new academic year approaches.

Every year, thousands of overseas students come to the UK, many to attend independent schools in Oxford.

During weekends and half term breaks, these students often remain in the country, staying with host families in and around the city.

These families play a significant role in the students' experiences, and with the new academic year fast approaching, there is a push to enlist host families in Oxford.

Host families have reported a number of benefits and receive a paymentHost families have reported a number of benefits and receive a payment (Image: Pippa's Guardians)

Ideal families could include those with young children who might be keen to learn a new language, or those with older children who have already left home.

Host families report a broadened global perspective, and often stay closely connected with the students and their families after they have left school.

Kendal Yardley and her husband, Anthony, who live in Oxford, have been hosting students for Pippa's Guardians for more than a decade.

Ms Yardley said: "I think it's great for so many reasons, not only for us as a host family but also for the students staying with us.

"We both get to learn and understand different cultures and customs, try new food and make wonderful connections.

"And it's been lovely that when the students have moved on to the next stages in their lives, they have kept in touch and sent us updates on what they are doing."