🌟 Join Us at The Gathering 2024! 🌟

Portlick campsite, Co. Athlone

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, Co. Athlone

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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.

Evening Meals Available

Don’t worry about dinner – evening meals will be available for pre-booking so you can focus on the fun!

👫 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.

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.

🎨 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!

🤝 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.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to Gather, learn, and grow together as a community. Bookings close on August 1st, so secure your spot today!

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 our activities run by Portlick. Tickets sold separately.

Reserve your spot today for a weekend of outdoor fun, family bonding, and unforgettable memories!

Discover gathering Activities

Day Adventure Ticket at Portlick Campsite for HEN Gathering

📍 Location: Portlick Campsite, Co. Athlone
🕒 Access Hours: 9am
💼 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.
  • 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.

Join us for a day of adventure, connection, and gathering as a homeschool community at Portlick Campsite for the HEN Gathering!

Catering Announcement for The Gathering 2024! 🍽️

Exciting News!

We are currently in the process of finalising catering options for The Gathering 2024 at Portlick Campsite. Stay tuned as we will soon be posting details about the delicious evening food offerings available throughout the weekend.

In the meantime, we encourage you to bring your own personal BBQs and take advantage of our large industrial walk-in fridge for storing your food items. Our wash stations will ensure your cooking experience is hassle-free and convenient.

Additionally, our onsite shop provides a variety of snacks and refreshments to complement your meals. Plus, there are plenty of local food places delivering to the campsite, offering a diverse selection of cuisines to satisfy your cravings.

We’re committed to ensuring that your dining experience at The Gathering is as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Keep an eye out for updates on catering options, and in the meantime, feel free to plan your culinary delights with the amenities available onsite.

Get ready for a weekend filled with great food, great company, and unforgettable memories at The Gathering 2024!

** Quick note mention I am finalising catering with a company who offer a range of options. Airstream with a set evening menu for 2 nights and a BBQ 1 night.

Airstream Catering Trailer
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Code of conduct


Respect

Treat everyone with kindness, respect, and consideration. We celebrate diversity and expect all attendees to do the same.


Inclusivity

Embrace inclusivity and foster a welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of background, ethnicity, religion, or ability.


Safety

Prioritize the safety and well-being of yourself and others. Follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by event staff and organizers.


Supervision

Parents or guardians are responsible for the supervision of their children at all times during the event. Ensure that children are supervised and accounted for to prevent accidents or incidents.


Cooperation

Work together with event staff and volunteers to ensure the smooth running of activities and events. Follow instructions promptly and cooperate with any requests from organizers.


Cleanliness

It takes a village to keep our communal areas clean. We are all volunteers, and if we can work together, we can maintain a clean and hygienic environment for everyone. Especially in toilets and showers, if there’s a spill, please mop it up. If more toilet roll or soap is needed, please refill; there will be stock readily available.


Communication

Communicate openly and respectfully with fellow attendees. If you have any concerns or issues, approach event staff or organizers for assistance.


Positive Attitude

Maintain a positive attitude and contribute to a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Encourage and uplift others to create a welcoming environment for all.


Compliance

Adhere to all event policies, rules, and regulations outlined by the Home Education Network (HEN) and Portlick Campsite. Failure to comply may result in removal from the event premises.

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.


Weekend Rules



Child Safety


Children must be supervised by a parent or nominated guardian at all times during the event.



No Pets


For the safety and comfort of all attendees, pets are not allowed on the campsite premises.



Parking


Cars must be parked in the designated parking area. Please follow instructions from event staff for parking arrangements.



Shower Times


Shower facilities are available for children between the hours of 10am and 6pm. After 6pm, shower facilities are designated for adult use only.



BBQ Safety


Personal BBQs are permitted at designated areas. Please ensure that BBQs are used safely and are fully extinguished after use. Attendees are responsible for disposing of BBQ waste properly.



Compliance


Adhere to all event policies, rules, and regulations outlined by the Home Education Network (HEN) and Portlick Campsite. Failure to comply may result in removal from the event premises.



Campsite Curfew


The campsite curfew is at 10pm. Please be mindful of young families on the campsite and keep noise levels to a minimum. Alternative areas such as our stretch tent located in the field next to our campers are available for socializing after hours.

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.


Child Safety Policy



Supervision

Children must be under the direct supervision of a parent or nominated guardian at all times during the event. Parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring that their children are accompanied and closely watched to ensure their safety and well-being.



Water Safety

Children should be closely supervised when near water bodies such as lakes or rivers on the campsite. Life jackets or floatation devices should be worn by children when participating in water activities. Parents are responsible for educating children about water safety and ensuring they understand the risks associated with water activities.



Fire Safety

Attendees must adhere to all fire safety regulations on the campsite. Open fires should be attended at all times, and fire safety equipment should be readily accessible. Parents should educate children about fire safety and ensure they understand the dangers of playing with fire.



Photography Consent


Attendees consent to the use of any photographs, videos, or other media captured during the event for promotional purposes by the Home Education Network (HEN) only.



Emergency Procedures


In the event of an emergency involving a child, event staff will follow established procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of the child, including notifying parents or guardians as necessary.



Child Protection


Any concerns regarding child safety or welfare should be reported immediately to event staff or organizers for appropriate action.



Parents’ Responsibility


It is the sole responsibility of parents or guardians to ensure that their children are supervised at all times, especially during activities and while using facilities on the campsite.



Photography Restriction


Photography by attendees other than HEN organisers is not permitted, except for personal use and with the consent of all individuals being photographed.



Shower Times


Shower facilities are available for children between the hours of 10am and 6pm. After 6pm, shower facilities are designated for adult use only.

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:

Fill out our volunteer application form here. 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

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