SHEN is a volunteer-led organisation supporting home educators throughout Greater Sydney. We create opportunities for families to connect, learn, and grow through shared activities, events, and resources.
Sydney Home Education Network (SHEN) is a not-for-profit organisation run by home educators, for home educators.
Our mission is to support and connect families who educate their children outside the traditional school system. Operated entirely by volunteers, SHEN helps make home education more inclusive, collaborative, and community-driven.
Members contribute a small annual fee, which helps fund our community events and maintain our digital hub
SHEN coordinates a wide variety of educational and social opportunities throughout the year, including:
🏊♀️ Annual Swimming Carnival
🏃♂️ Annual Athletics Carnival
🎭 Excursions to major cultural venues (e.g. Sydney Opera House)
👫 Community meetups, educational groups, and special interest clubs
We create safe, inclusive spaces for children to learn and socialise, and for parents to exchange ideas and support.
Organising large events and bulk ticket purchases can be expensive and risky for individuals. SHEN pools member contributions to cover costs like deposits and event shortfalls, making bigger and better events possible.
We also help families access educational opportunities often reserved for formal schools—sometimes acting as an organisational bridge to secure resources, venue access, and discounted programs.
The SHEN website serves as a central point of connection for home-educating families. Members can:
📣 Promote and discover events, groups, and services
🗓️ Find activities and excursions for all ages
🤝 Connect with support networks and social communities
📚 Access educational tools, services, and resources
We’re committed to building a supportive digital space that empowers families and simplifies home education logistics.
SHEN holds public liability and volunteer worker insurance to support members organising events and arranging student work experience.
Need coverage? Visit our Insurance Page to register your event or student placement for SHEN-supported protection.
Whether you’re just beginning your home education journey or have years of experience, SHEN welcomes you.
Become a member today and help shape a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient home education community.