Why Maidenhead needs host families
Brunel's brick railway bridge spans the Thames here, and the riverside paths towards Boulter's Lock and Cookham are a favourite with residents and visitors alike. The Elizabeth line has made central London easy to reach, which gives students the best of both a riverside town and a capital city.
Students living in Maidenhead may study locally, in other Thames Valley towns or in London. Its central position means schools in several directions can consider hosts here, particularly families near the station or on a bus route into the town centre.
Hosting is a practical way to make use of a spare room and to welcome someone new into family life. Students usually spend their days at classes or exploring, then join the household for an evening meal and a chat about their day. You decide when you host and who stays, and the income may fall within the Rent a Room allowance.
Who you could host in Maidenhead
You choose the ages, lengths of stay and dates that suit your household.
How it works
1. Register for free
Create your host profile in a few minutes. There are no fees or subscriptions.
2. Get found by schools
Language schools that place students in and around Maidenhead search for hosts by location, rooms and availability.
3. Welcome your student
A school contacts you directly to arrange a placement. You decide which students you accept.
Earn up to £7,500 a year tax-free
Under the government's Rent a Room scheme, income from hosting students in your Maidenhead home is tax-free up to £7,500 a year.
- Applies whether you own or rent (with your landlord's permission)
- Claim it with a single tick box on your tax return
General guidance only. Read more on GOV.UK
Hosting in Maidenhead: common questions
Ready to host in Maidenhead?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.