About Shepherd’s Rest Worldschooling Community

Every family who stays here home educates in their own way. There is no single philosophy, method, or expectation. Families come to Shepherd’s Rest to recharge, explore new rhythms, socialise with other home-educating families, and step out of isolation, while continuing their own approach to learning.

Who is Shepherd’s Rest best suited for?

This is for all Worldschooling and home-educating families who are confident following their own educational approach, and who value community as a way to re-energise, connect, and broaden their children’s social and learning experiences — without outsourcing responsibility.

Do families follow the same educational philosophy?

No. Families at Shepherd’s Rest use many different approaches — structured, semi-structured, self-directed, eclectic, or evolving. The shared benefit comes from living alongside other home-educating families, exchanging ideas naturally, and giving children space to learn through life, play and connection.

What do families gain from staying here educationally?

Most families come to:

• Re-charge after long periods of travel

• Give children meaningful social connections

• Explore new interests, environments and rhythms

• Reconnect with why they chose home education in the first place

What happens during Self-Directed Months?

Families continue their own home-education approach while enjoying the added value of community life. There are no on-site tutors, but learning happens constantly through shared activities, conversations, projects, play, and exposure to other families’ interests and ways of living.

If every family does things differently, what’s the common ground?

A shared respect for autonomy, curiosity, and community. Families who thrive here understand that Shepherd’s Rest is not about being taught what to do, it’s about having the space and environment that make learning, connection and family life feel lighter and more sustainable.

Can introverted families or children thrive here?

Yes. There is plenty of space for quiet time and autonomy. Social interaction happens naturally, not through pressure.

What if we’re new to Worldschooling?

Many families arrive at Shepherd’s Rest during transition periods. The environment is supportive, non-judgemental, and rich in lived experience.

Do mixed aged children really play together?

Absolutely. Mixed-age interaction is a natural part of life here.

How important is community participation?

Community is central. While participation is never forced, families are expected to be open to shared meals, conversations, and respectful coexistence.

Is Shepherd’s Rest inclusive?

Yes. Shepherd’s Rest is a zero-tolerance space for bullying, discrimination or exclusion.

Families of different backgrounds, beliefs, identities and learning styles are welcome, as long as

they treat others with respect.

What does a typical week look like?

There is no “typical” week — and that’s intentional. Days may include shared meals, hikes, park

days, creative projects, work time, outings, workshops (during event months), or simply rest. The Whatsapp group is where all the planning happens!

What accommodation options are available?

• Shepherd’s Rest (Oria village): 3 self-contained family apartments

• Cortijo Serendipia (5 minute drive from Oria village): Apartments with shared outdoor spaces set across 12 acres. All accommodation is fully furnished and family-friendly.

Is there a minimum stay?

Yes. It is a minimum stay of one month (beginning of month to end) so families can properly settle into community life.

Are prices per person or per family?

Prices are per family, not per person.

What’s included in the price?

• Utilities

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• Furnished accommodation

• Access to communal spaces

Can I work remotely from Shepherd’s Rest?

Yes. We have reliable high-speed internet suitable for remote work, online schooling, and video

calls. There is also a private office available at 20€ per day, with hot and cold air con, bathroom and office equipment

Is a car necessary?

A car is strongly recommended. While Oria has walkable amenities, many outings and errands are

much easier with a vehicle.

Which airport should we fly into?

Most families use Almería, Murcia, Granada or Alicante airports. Travel details are shared once a

booking is confirmed. Airport transfers and car hire can be arranged locally.

Do we have to participate in events if we stay during an event month?

No. Participation is optional unless otherwise stated.

What kinds of events do you run?

Examples include:

• Month in the Mountains (Tweens & Teens / Juniors)

• Self-Directed Learning Months

• Mums in the Mountains

How do we book?

Bookings begin with a conversation to ensure mutual fit. You can contact us via the website, phone call, or email, which are all listed at the bottom of this page

Are deposits refundable?

Deposits are generally non-refundable unless the cancellation is initiated by Shepherd’s Rest.

In some cases, a credit note may be offered.