Since 1983, British families have been opening their homes to Harlaxton students through the Meet-A-Family Experience. This is a unique opportunity for students to be immersed in and better understand authentic British culture.

Students visit British homes for meals throughout the semester, sometimes going with their families on trips, to concerts, or to sporting events. Harlaxton students quite literally “get a taste” of British family life, sometimes returning the compliment by cooking an American meal for their host family—and always, twice a semester, hosting their British “Mums” and Dads at their house, Harlaxton Manor, which the families love. The relationships often last a lifetime. American students come back to England to visit; British hosts go to the States for graduations and weddings.

The House system is an integral part of life at Harlaxton College and aims to provide a sense of community and identity within each House that goes beyond students’ home campuses. House events run throughout the semester with points being awarded for each event or competition. Competitions/events fall into the categories of academic, athletic, creative, social, and other. The House with the most points at the end of the semester will win the overall House competition: The Manor Key!

Harlaxton Manor provides a magnificent venue for musical and dramatic performances. Some opportunities include the Harlaxton Collegiate Choir, theatre and drama groups established by the students themselves, and informal small music groups for players on an intermediate level or above. Students are encouraged to bring their own instrument where possible, although loan instruments may be available. During the semester, the Student Experience Office often hosts karaoke nights, open mic nights, or a talent show for more opportunities to showcase student talent.

With its very own Sports Hall for you to use, staying active while studying abroad is easy at Harlaxton. Facilities include a full-sized basketball court (also for soccer, volleyball, etc.), cardio floor, and weight room. Outdoor sports and recreation are also widely available at Harlaxton. On Harlaxton’s doorstep are many walking, running, and hiking routes within the picturesque Lincolnshire countryside. Bicycles are also available for you to use to further explore the area. You are encouraged to explore traditional UK sports like cricket, rugby, and croquet while at Harlaxton. For those wishing to play competitive sports while studying abroad, Harlaxton offers this opportunity through its “Lions” Basketball and Soccer (or football when in the UK) teams. Playing in the Lincolnshire leagues against local clubs and representing the Harlaxton Lions is both a challenging and enjoyable experience, and a chance to get a taste of competitive sport in Britain.