Peaceville Academy harps on holistic learning to groom future leaders

As part of efforts to revolutionise the educational landscape in Nigeria, the management of Peaceville International Academy (PIA), Ogun State, has emphasised the need for holistic approach to learning, combining academic excellence with character development, leadership training, and spiritual growth.

Addressing reporters at the school, located at Redemption City, within the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Head of School, Dolapo Fatoki, said the academy is committed to raising leaders who will make positive impacts in their communities and the world at large.

“We’re not just building a school; we’re building a community of leaders who will make a difference. We’re committed to providing a world-class education that prepares our students for success in all areas of life, while also inspiring them to become the leaders and change-makers that our world needs,” Fatoki stated.

On character development, Fatoki, who was supported at the media briefing by some board members – Noah Osato, Ayoola Jolayemi, and Olugbenga Omojola – said the three-year old school follows the Skills Builder British curriculum, which emphasises respect, communication, morals, etiquette, leadership, and communal growth, while grounding them in Christian principles.

“Our mission is to provide a full British curriculum in a world-class learning environment, with outstanding faculty and administrators committed to the intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of our students.

“We’re not just focused on academics; we’re committed to shaping the minds, hearts, and characters of our students, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to succeed in an increasingly complex and globalised world,” Fatoki added.

PIA, which is part of RCCG ‘s educational arm, boasts of state-of-the-art infrastructure, including sporting facilities, a serene environment conducive to learning, and a robust security system that ensures the safety and well-being of its students, and also positioned to admit students from across the world.

In less than three years, Fatoki said the students were able to compete with their peers across various backgrounds, by participating in various competitions and winning laurels.

Fatoki emphasised the importance of discipline, security, and parental involvement in the school’s approach to education.

“We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, and our secure environment ensures that our students are safe and supported throughout their educational journey.”

To tackle the issue of bullying, Fatoki disclosed that the academy has launched a comprehensive anti-bullying policy, which involves counselling, continuous monitoring, and open communication.

As part of the policy, she explained that parents, mentors, and tutors are actively engaged in a 360-degree monitoring system to ensure early intervention. Fatoki noted that many bullies are often victims of bullying themselves, with the behaviour sometimes stemming from their home environment. She, however, noted that the school remains vigilant in identifying signs of bullying among students and acts swiftly to address them.

“Bullying cannot be completely eradicated, as traits will occasionally emerge. However, the key is immediate intervention. A child who bullies others is likely to experience bullying themselves. No child is born a bully,” Fatoki stated. She further explained that students who have been bullied require counselling, close monitoring, and continuous support to help them break free from the cycle.

“Often, bullying behaviour can be traced to issues at home, whether involving parents, housemaids, or other influences. Our approach is to address the root cause and guide the child, rather than simply punishing them.”

As an RCCG school, Fatoki noted that instilling godly values is their priority. According to her, PIA emphasises virtues such as godliness, resilience, integrity, consistency, empathy, and excellence, adding that beyond academics, it is poised to develop students who are spiritually, emotionally, and physically sound.

“Integrity is one of our core values, and we reinforce it through our teachings. Our assemblies focus on the word of God, giving students time for reflection. We do not use corporal punishment; instead, we encourage students to reflect on their actions. We talk to them and guide them with love, understanding that they are not perfect, but must be held to high standards.”

Fatoki noted, that while disciplinary issues may increase as the school grows, the foundational principles of integrity and accountability remain firm. She added that the academy’s leadership development programmes, including its flagship leadership subject, are designed to equip students with skills, knowledge, and values necessary to become effective leaders and change-makers both locally and globally.