The Barnes Family Exchange Organisation

How it all began

Nearly fifty years ago we were asked to take a German boy for a short stay into our own family in England. As a consequence Peter Barnes - a School Director - and his wife, Gaynor, a teacher of music, were asked to help many more youngsters and became well-known by The British Council in Germany as an exchange organisation.

Our students study full-time in schools in England where they can improve their English and continue with their general academic studies. Since our small beginning, our services as a caring exchange organisation have become known world-wide. This care is reflected in the guardianship we provide for all students which means we undertake the responsibility of solving any problem that may arise - either at school, or in the case of a day school arrangement, with the host family. In this way, parents may be assured that Peter and Gaynor's daughter Rachel - also a teacher - supported by her husband Ric, are always available in England for students and their parents to turn to at any time of the day. We provide a true 24 hour contact service with a person at the end of the line who will help you.

Knowledge of the English school system

As qualified teachers with many years' experience in both private and state high schools we have a very thorough knowledge of the British educational system - state high and private schools. As previously mentioned, the Barnes exchange organisation was founded in 1975 by Peter and Gaynor Barnes but in more recent years, Rachel (their daughter) has brought a wealth of experience to the business following her career as a teacher in elementary and secondary state high and private schools. Rachel also won several prestigious music competitions, among them "the BBC TV Young Musician of the Year 1992" (woodwind) while graduating at the Royal Academy of Music and then the University of Goldsmiths.

What the Barnes family business can offer is usually of interest to pupils who are around the age of 15 to 18. We do not place high numbers of students, so we can provide a very comprehensive and personal service. Our students really learn what it is like to 'live' in England supported by caring families.

Always willing to help

Being a small family business in England we personally hold close relationships with everybody involved with caring for your child. This enables us to react quickly and be very flexible when we receive an enquiry. We do not have closing dates for applications and have been known to place a student within four days of the start of term, although earlier applications allow us to give you more choice. If you do not see what you are looking for please contact us since we are a very flexible exchange organisation and we will always try to offer a package to suit you.