More Than School: Creating Learning Spaces in the Mountains

Education has always been central to life at One Day. Each morning, children put on their uniforms and walk down the mountain to attend one of the local secondary schools or Ha Lebesa Primary School, which sits just a short distance from our homes. We are grateful that most of our children attend this local school. Over the years, Ha Lebesa Primary has been a consistent and committed partner to us, investing in our children with care and dedication.

Our relationship with the school has grown into a genuine community partnership. As they invest in the education of our children, we have sought to invest in strengthening their capacity and infrastructure in return.

Strengthening Infrastructure Together

Several years ago, Ha Lebesa Primary School did not have electricity. Through the generosity of one of the Irish teams visiting One Day, funding was provided to enable the school to connect to electricity for the first time. That development significantly improved teaching conditions and expanded what was possible within the classroom.

More recently, we supported the installation of a rainwater collection system to strengthen the school’s water access. Reliable water supply contributes directly to hygiene, sanitation, and daily school operations. These practical improvements may not be dramatic, but they make consistent education possible.

The installation of a playground at the school further strengthened this partnership. Break times were transformed into active, structured play. Younger children gained access to equipment that supports coordination, balance, and social interaction. The sound of laughter and movement in the yard has become part of the daily rhythm of the mountain.

Expanding Digital Access and Resources

When a container arrived from Ireland carrying practical resources, it marked another step forward. Staff, teenagers, and volunteers worked together unloading computers, sewing machines, sports equipment, and teaching materials. From those deliveries, a computer room was established at the local high school.

In a rural setting where digital access is limited, this created new opportunity. Students began learning typing skills, basic research methods, and computer literacy. For our teenagers, these skills are essential preparation for further education and employment.

Computers set up for the first time at HaLebesa Primary School.

Visiting teams have also played a meaningful role. Teachers from St. Dominic’s School in Tallaght have travelled to Lesotho during Easter breaks over several years. They brought teaching resources, shared lesson ideas, and ran workshops with local teachers across different subjects and teaching methods. These exchanges were not one-directional. Irish teachers learned from Basotho educators, and genuine relationships formed through shared professional experience.

This ongoing collaboration has strengthened teaching confidence and broadened exposure to different approaches within the classroom.

Supporting Academic Growth

Alongside improvements within the school itself, we established the One Day Education Centre to provide structured tutoring and study support. Some children benefit from additional literacy and numeracy guidance. Others simply need a quiet, consistent space to focus on homework and exam preparation.

Participation in school sports days and competitions further strengthens engagement. When children represent Ha Lebesa in races or football matches, house parents and staff stand alongside other community members in support. These shared moments reinforce belonging, confidence, and pride.

Education as Stewardship and Partnership

We believe education is an expression of stewardship. Each child carries God-given potential, and creating environments where that potential can develop is part of our responsibility. Investing in Ha Lebesa Primary School reflects that belief.

It’s a great partnership. The school invests in our children daily. We invest in strengthening their capacity. Together, we contribute to the wellbeing of the wider mountain community.

Over time, we have seen tangible results. Improved infrastructure strengthens consistency. Digital access widens opportunity. Teacher collaboration deepens classroom engagement. Playground development supports holistic growth.

Creating learning spaces in the mountains requires patience, partnership, and long-term commitment. We remain grateful for Ha Lebesa Primary School and for the international teams who have contributed to this shared vision. Together, we are working to ensure that children on this mountain are equipped with the skills, confidence, and character needed for the future.