Lolad Schools has set out a model that places equal focus on academic study, practical skills, and character development, as education systems continue to respond to changes in the global economy and workplace expectations.
- +Lolad Schools advances practical learning model for future-ready students
The school, founded by Ololade Williams, is built on the idea that learning should move beyond memorisation and examinations to include critical thinking and real-life application.
The school, founded by Ololade Williams, is built on the idea that learning should move beyond memorisation and examinations to include critical thinking and real-life application. According to the Williams, “Education must go beyond passing exams. We are raising thinkers, problem solvers, and individuals who can create value wherever they find themselves.”
From early years to secondary level, the school adopts a structure that encourages participation and inquiry. Students are guided to ask questions, test ideas, and relate classroom lessons to everyday situations. This method aims to prepare them for decision-making and problem-solving beyond the school environment.
A key part of the system is the inclusion of vocational and technical training alongside academic work. Through its Vocational Training School and Advanced Learning Programme, students gain exposure to skills such as fashion and beauty, catering and baking, media and photography, music production, carpentry, welding, leather works, and digital skills including web design, graphics, and artificial intelligence.
School administrators say the programme is designed to address the demand for self-reliance and enterprise. Students are introduced to practical work early, with the aim of helping them understand production, service delivery, and value creation. The approach also supports those who may choose career paths outside traditional professions.
In addition to skills training, the school runs an Essay Writing and Academic Excellence Programme. This initiative focuses on helping students organise their thoughts, develop arguments, and express ideas clearly. Teachers work with students to improve writing structure, comprehension, and communication.
The programme is intended to support performance in examinations while also preparing students for higher education and professional communication. School officials note that the ability to present ideas clearly is essential across different fields.
Outside the classroom, Lolad Schools provides activities that support student development. These include sports, creative arts, science and innovation clubs, and leadership groups. The football academy, for example, is used to teach teamwork, discipline, and consistency. Music and drama activities give students a platform to express ideas and work in groups.
The school maintains a system that combines rules with student support. Behavioural standards are set, while teachers act as mentors. This structure is aimed at helping students take responsibility for their actions while remaining open to guidance.
Lolad Schools also incorporates elements from local and international curricula. This exposure is designed to prepare students for opportunities within and outside Nigeria. By working with different academic standards, students are introduced to varied methods of learning and assessment.
Character development is another focus of the school. Values such as integrity, accountability, respect, and leadership are reinforced through daily routines and school activities. Over time, these are expected to shape how students relate with others and approach responsibilities.
The school reports that its alumni have gone on to work in fields including law, engineering, and science. Some have taken up roles in business and healthcare, both in Nigeria and abroad. Among them is Olakunle Williams, identified as Africa’s Energy Icon and Chief Executive Officer of Tetracore Energy Group.
Education analysts note that models combining academic learning with skills training are gaining attention as countries seek to prepare young people for changing labour markets. Lolad Schools’ approach reflects this trend by linking classroom learning with practical experience.
As education systems continue to adjust, the school’s structure shows an attempt to close the gap between theory and practice. By combining study, skills, and character formation, Lolad Schools is positioning its students for roles that require both knowledge and application.
