Join Us at The Gathering 2024!
Calling all homeschooling families! Get ready for a weekend filled with adventure, connection, and learning at the annual HEN Gathering – an event you won’t want to miss!
WHEN : September 6th-9th 2024 (Fri – mon)
where: Portlick Campsite, Athlone
Bookings are closed – we are on the final count down and very excited to meet everyone. Please keep in mind that we can’t process refunds after the 21st August 2024 at noon.
If you’re attending the gathering and have not received your email link to join the whats app community please email events@henireland.org
The Gathering 2024 is the ultimate summer festival for homeschooling families who are members of the HEN (Home Education Network) Ireland. It’s a chance for kids, parents, and teens alike to come together, share experiences, and make lasting memories in a vibrant and supportive community.
Here is what you can expect:
Engaging Workshops & Activities
Immerse yourself in a world of excitement! Join in the fun with a diverse array of offerings, including Sports Day, Field Sports, Nerf Wars, Arts and Crafts, Giant Bubble Making, rejuvenating Yoga sessions, and more. Experience the empowering atmosphere of our Women’s Red Tent, where you can connect, find support, and celebrate with others. Wind down around the evening bonfire for a cozy atmosphere, drumming session under the stars, and the delightful experience of roasting marshmallows with friends and family. Don’t miss the chance to support our very own children as they sell and display their items at the Sunday Market!
Inspiring Talks
Parents & teens, this one’s for you! Join insightful discussions. Discover how they turn out with a Q&A from experienced home ed families, gain insights on assessments, participate in Q&A sessions, and learn about important topics such as Tusla assessments, insights into CAO/University access, and attend our Q&A with the Tusla AREARS team.
Camping Weekend
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with a camping experience. Share stories around the campfire, roast marshmallows, stargaze under the night sky, and create cherished memories with your family. The campsite is booked for exclusive use for The Gathering 2024, ensuring a private and secure environment for all attendees.
Portlick’s Exciting Activities
Dive into adventure with kayaking, water slides, water wars, wall climbing, archery, zip-lining, football fusion, and crate stacking! Wet Adventures (€15 per child) run from 10:00 am – 12:30 pm, Dry Adventures (€15 per child) from 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm, and Crate Stacking (€5 per child) from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Activites will be on Saturday and Sunday only.
The Big Dig by the School of Archaeology
Uncover ancient secrets with The Big Dig! Experience what it’s like to be an archaeologist by excavating the remains of a Viking house.
Space for Teens
We haven’t forgotten about the teens! Portlick activities will have a designated space for teens to meet, connect, and join in on activities designed for ages 13 plus.
Great Place to Make New Connections
The Gathering 2024 is not just about fun and learning; it’s also a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded homeschooling families and forge new friendships. Connect with others who share your journey and build a supportive network that lasts beyond the weekend.
Year of Arts (YOFA)
Discover your creative side with Year of Arts workshops and activities tailored to all ages, including children, teens, and grandparents. Immerse yourself in various art forms and expand your artistic horizons!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to Gather, learn, and grow together as a community. Bookings are now closed
Let’s make memories together at The Gathering 2024 – where homeschooling families come together!
Weekend Camping Ticket for The Gathering 2024
Join Us for an Unforgettable Camping Experience!
📍 Location: Portlick Campsite, Co. Athlone
📅 Dates: September 6th – 9th
💰 Weekend Ticket Price: €40 per person (Under 3s go free!)
Included Amenities:
- Spacious pitches for large tents and camper vans.
- Personal BBQs permitted at each pitch.
- Shower facilities, toilets, and washing stations available onsite.
- Large industrial walk-in fridge for storing cooler boxes.
- Device charging point for your convenience.
- Onsite Tuck shop
- Access to the lake front through secure gate.
- Enjoy a range of HEN activities/talks organized by the Home Education Network throughout the weekend.
- Take part in exciting activities. Tickets sold separately.
Reserve your place today for a weekend of outdoor fun, family bonding, and unforgettable memories!
Day Adventure Ticket at Portlick Campsite for HEN Gathering
📍 Location: Portlick Campsite, Co. Athlone
🕒 Access Hours: 9am till late !
💼 Package: Day Ticket
💰 Price: €35 per family
Package Includes:
- Engage in HEN activities and talks throughout the day, encouraging connections and community among homeschool families. A great way to make connections if you are new to homeschooling – come and join us!
- Access to all available activities at Portlick Campsite for the day. Tickets sold separately.
- Enjoy exciting adventures such as wall climbing, zip lining, archery, crate stacking, and more! Please purchase your tickets in advance; no tickets will be sold on the day.
- Access to picnic areas for family relaxation and enjoyment.
- Use of washing stations.
- Access to a large industrial walk-in fridge for storing cooler boxes.
- Simply enjoy your surroundings with a lakefront walk or 5km forest trail.
- Experience our evening gathering with roasting marshmallows by the bonfire and a drumming session.
Important Notes:
- Suitable for families of all ages.
- Parents or guardians must supervise children at all times.
- Limited tickets available; booking in advance is recommended.
- Safety equipment and instructions provided by trained staff.
catering
The gathering this year will be self-catering only.
Enjoyment: Above all, enjoy your time at The Gathering 2024! Take advantage of the opportunities for learning, connection, and fun with your fellow homeschooling families.
By attending The Gathering 2024, participants agree to abide by these terms and conditions. Please ensure that you have read and understood the above weekend rules before attending the event.
By attending The Gathering 2024, participants agree to abide by these child safety policies. Please ensure that you have read and understood the above child safety policy before attending the event.
Call for Activity Leaders and Organisers at The Gathering 2024
Dear Members of The Gathering 2024,
Do you have a talent or passion you’d love to share? We’re seeking volunteers to lead activities or talks during The Gathering 2024!
What: We’re looking for volunteers to organize and lead various activities or talks throughout The Gathering 2024.
When: September 6th to 9th.
Where: Portlick Campsite, Co. Athlone.
How to Volunteer:
Contact me at events@henireland.org. Let us know what activities or talks you’d like to lead!
For questions, contact us at events@henireland.org.
In appreciation of your efforts, we invite you to join us from the 5th of September for an additional night as a thank you to all our volunteers!
Warm regards,
Deanna McIlhatton
Events Coordinator
HEN Ireland