The school's theme is encapsulated in the word OMOLOLU, an interpretation of which states that "Children are the Summit of Achievement". The theoretical underpinnings of the school's philosophy are that an individual must be intrinsically motivated to succeed. Maslow's hierarchy of needs sheds some insight on the internal forces that hinder or enhance that process. According to Maslow, the satisfaction of the individual's needs for love and belonging, allows him/her to move on to satisfy other needs.

POSITIVE SELF ESTEEM AND COMMITMENT
At the Teacher Gloria Omololu Institute, an atmosphere is created which enables the child to feel accepted and approved. The intrinsic value, worth and dignity of every human being is emphasized and behaviours rather than individuals are labeled. In fact a literal interpretation of OMOLOLU is "Children of God." Children at the Institute are therefore nurtured as miracles of God's creation and supreme gifts to mankind.

They are constantly reminded, by word and action, that they are special and unique, and positive reinforcers are used for acceptable behaviour. Children are also encouraged to mentor each other informally and through a programme of volunteer peer helpers. The Omololu Super Child of the Week programme provides opportunities for each child to receive positive acknowledgement and appreciation from his/her classmates every week.

The Omololu Super Child is applauded by the entire school during the weekly Omololu Time programme. The super child also receives a certificate listing the attributes about which her/his classmates are commending her/him, after they have read them to the entire school.



OMOLOLU TIME
This programme is the brainchild of Dr Banks, the founder of the Institute, and was a feature of the Institute from its inception in 1994, preceding the now popular concept of social and emotional learning. For her it represents the marriage of psychology, education and human resource development.

Omololu Time, a special weekly interactive session, facilitated by Dr. Banks allows for respectful sharing of experiences and insights from students, teachers, parents and the community. It thereby helps children internalize values, morals and positive attitudes. The Omololu Super Child Programme also provides affirmation for children.



CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Children are taught constructive ways of resolving conflicts which result in "win-win" situations. They are invited to talk about the challenge, how they have dealt with it, and how they could have dealt with it differently so that it would not have escalated. Apologies are exchanged, as well as commitments to do things differently. They are then asked to talk about things they appreciate about each other.

This is easier or more difficult depending on the emotions involved, but usually children are able to walk away after having embraced each other, feeling better about the relationship. The resolution sometimes involves negotiation, compromise, or further individual, class or family consultations. Remarkable behavioural changes in the behaviour have been noted in children who had been taught to "defend" themselves, either in the home or at previous schools.


< back to top

POSITIVE SELF ESTEEM
OMOLOLU TIME
CONFLICT RESOLUTION