Shepherd's Rest Rural Worldschool Community

About this program

Shepherd's Rest is a full-time worldschooling community nestled in the mountain village of Oria, Andalucia, Spain. Founded in 2015 by a blended English family with six children, this is not a traditional school—there is no curriculum and no teachers on site. Instead, it offers traveling families a nurturing environment to connect, rest, and become part of a supportive community. The community operates from two traditional farmhouses: Shepherd's Rest in Oria village (with three self-contained apartments attached to the family home) and Cortijo Serendipia, set within 12 acres of olive and almond groves just a 5-minute drive away. Both properties feature shared communal spaces for work and play, including gardens, roof terraces, and a playroom. The philosophy centers on four cornerstones: parenting with purpose, fostering community belonging, building bonds through shared experiences, and connecting with nature and wildlife. Families are encouraged to stay for extended periods, integrating into village life and forming lasting friendships with like-minded families from around the world.