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About Us

Letter from The Principal

“Choosing the right preschool or crèche is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At Smiling Panda, we understand this, which is why we’ve created a space where children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn every day.

Our mission is simple: to nurture, educate, and care for your little one as if they were our own. Smiling Panda is more than a school – it’s a family where children are loved, guided, and encouraged to grow into confident, happy individuals.”

Warm regards,
Mrs. Nerissa Moodley
Principal

History & Vision of Smiling Panda

Established in late 2018 and officially opened in March 2019, Smiling Panda was born out of a passion for quality early childhood development (ECD) in Johannesburg South. From a small group of children in our first year, we have grown into a thriving daycare and aftercare centre serving babies, preschoolers, and primary school learners.

Our Vision

To provide a home-away-from-home for children – a place where they feel safe, loved, and stimulated while developing essential life skills.

Our Philosophy

At Smiling Panda, we believe children learn best through play-based, hands-on experiences.

Our Programmes focus on;

  • Social Development: Learning to share, make friends, and respect others
  • Emotional Growth: Building self-confidence and independence
  • Physical Development: Active play to develop motor skills and coordination
  • Intellectual Stimulation: Age-appropriate learning activities to encourage curiosity

We don’t just prepare children for school – we help them develop a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Our Facilities

We’ve designed our centre to be safe, clean, and child-friendly, with:

Secure Outdoor Area

Recently resurfaced with artificial grass for safe play

Enclosed Baby Area

 Covered, shaded, and secure for our youngest learners

Bright Classrooms

Cheerful spaces that encourage creativity and learning

Nutritious Meals

Healthy meals freshly prepared daily

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Compliance & Registration

Smiling Panda is a fully registered and legally compliant ECD centre, meeting all required regulations. Parents can trust that we maintain the highest standards of safety, hygiene, and professionalism.

City of Johannesburg

Consent & Health Permit

Department of Social Development

 Registered as an ECD facility

Department of Education

Operating according to school term dates. Registered with a EMIS number.

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Our Team

Our staff is made up of qualified, experienced, and loving educators who are passionate about working with children.

Mrs. Nerissa Moodley – Principal

Founder & Principal of Smiling Panda, with a strong background in ECD and a passion for creating safe, nurturing spaces for children.

City of Johannesburg

Consent & Health Permit

Department of Social Development

 Registered as an ECD facility

Department of Education

Operating according to school term dates. Registered with a EMIS number.

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