SHEN – Sydney Home Education Network

SHEN CARNIVALS

 Celebrating Friendship, Fun, and Community Spirit

At SHEN, our annual carnivals are true highlights of the year — days when our whole community comes together to celebrate teamwork, encouragement, and joy. We hold two carnivals each year: our Swimming Carnival in March and our Athletics Carnival in August or September. Both events bring laughter, connection, and a wonderful sense of belonging for students and families alike.

Swimming Carnival – March

In March, the excitement builds as we gather at the Wentworthville Aquatic Centre for our much-loved Swimming Carnival. The atmosphere is always full of energy and smiles. While students raced through the lanes with great enthusiasm, the splash pool was bursting with laughter and play as younger and older kids joined in the fun together.

What really makes the day special is the team spirit that fills the poolside — volunteers, parents, and teens all working together to make everything run so smoothly. It’s this sense of shared effort that makes SHEN events so memorable.

As the last races wrapped up and our swimmers caught their breath, everyone came together for a moment of thanks and celebration. It was lovely to see so many families stay to show appreciation for those who helped make the day possible. The presentation of certificates to our age champions was a proud moment for all, marking not just achievement, but effort and encouragement.

Athletics Carnival – August/September

Later in the year, our Athletics Carnival brings that same spirit of fun and teamwork to the field. Around 300 athletes take part, competing in running races from 50m to 300m, as well as discus, shot put, javelin, and long jump.

The day is always alive with cheers, encouragement, and friendly competition. Parents and volunteers lend a helping hand, while students support and celebrate one another throughout the events. Whether sprinting down the track, giving their best in field events, or cheering from the sidelines, every participant plays a part in creating an atmosphere of community pride and joy.


Both carnivals remind us what SHEN is all about — friendship, participation, and celebrating each individual’s effort. They’re days where the whole community comes together to have fun, encourage one another, and make lasting memories.