Arise and Shine College and Daycare is a shining light for the community of Regents Park. The school was born out of the need to educate local children and those involved in the school are fulfilling that mission.

The vision for the school began with Abel Guerreiro, a priest from Portugal, who founded a church in Regents Park called Nova Vida (New Life) in 2005.

As part of the ministry’s outreach to children, a creche, aftercare and Sunday school were established. The church began taking children off the streets and helping them break free from poverty.

The current principal, Teboho Mahlako, was one of the first children to benefit from the church’s education and outreach programmes. During Sunday school, Abel noticed that many children were struggling to read at their age level and recognised the need to establish a proper school.

After fundraising and acquiring land on Bob Street, Arise and Shine College was officially established in 2012. In association with Nova Vida Church, the school is led by a dynamic duo committed to education.

Dr Nicolas Marais, the director, brings over 15 years of experience in education and training while Teboho Mahlako serves as principal and a key member of the school management team.

Changing lives

Teboho and his brother, who experienced homelessness during part of their childhood, benefited greatly from the church’s outreach programme.

Teboho was eventually taken in by a church family which changed the course of his life and allowed him to pursue his education. Now he seeks to offer the same opportunities to other children in southern Johannesburg.

Teboho holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of South Africa and a diploma in theology.

With over 10 years of teaching experience he is dedicated to empowering both students and educators.

“I came through the system of spirituality and education that we created. As principal, I want to grow this school and give as many children as possible a chance at a better life,” said Teboho.

Arise and Shine College, Creche and Daycare aim to expand beyond primary education to include a high school in the future. The daycare provides supervision for children to complete homework and ensures they receive meals, addressing the challenge that many children only eat while at school.

The school is registered with the Department of Education and employs only qualified educators. It has become a beacon of light for the children of Regents Park and surrounding areas, with plans to extend its reach further into southern Johannesburg, an effort that requires community support.

Visitors are welcome at 16 Bob Street, Regents Park, Johannesburg, 2197, or they can contact the school on 084 959 4598.