The Holistic Approach: After-School Programmes and Student Care at Mount of Olives College Kakiri

Mount of Olives College, Kakiri (MOCK), a private, mixed secondary school in Wakiso District, Uganda, operates with a vision to provide a holistic education that prepares students to be responsible and productive members of society. Given its emphasis on producing a “wholesome child” and its provision for both day and boarding students, the after-school programmes and student care system are central to achieving this goal.

1. Academic Care: Structured Study and Mentorship

The primary component of the after-school schedule, especially for boarding students, is a structured prep time or private study. This dedicated time ensures that students consolidate the day’s learning, complete assignments, and prepare for subsequent lessons.

• Supervised Prep Hours: Boarding students follow a timetable that includes mandatory evening and sometimes early morning study hours. These sessions are usually supervised by teachers on duty to ensure an environment conducive to concentration and to provide immediate help with challenging academic concepts.
• Teacher-Parent/Tutor System (School Family Initiative – SFI): MOCK implements a unique care model where every student is allocated a ‘Teacher Parent’ (personal tutor and mentor). This system extends into the after-school hours, where the tutor provides guidance and motivation. This mentorship is crucial for tracking a student’s academic progress, addressing learning challenges, and helping them set and achieve personal goals. This aligns with the school’s core value of ‘Every child matters.’
• Reading Culture: After-school programs actively support the development of a reading culture through leisure reading of novels, magazines, and newspapers, in addition to research using textbooks and e-learning materials.

2. Co-Curricular and Talent Development Programmes

Beyond the classroom, MOCK’s after-school activities are designed to foster well-rounded skills, leadership, and personal development, embodying the core value of ‘Achieving excellence.’

• The Arts and Creative Expression:
  • Choir and Music: As highlighted by the Choir’s success (such as the recent chance to animate the Mass at UMU), music is a significant part of the co-curricular programme. After-school rehearsals help students hone their vocal and instrumental talents, which also contributes to the school’s spiritual development programmes.
  • Drama and Dance: Clubs focused on drama, public speaking, and creative dance provide platforms for self-expression, confidence building, and cultural appreciation.
• Clubs and Societies: The school supports various student-led clubs that meet after school to discuss and engage in areas of interest, which typically include:
  • Debate/Literary Clubs: For sharpening critical thinking and public speaking skills.
  • Science/Innovation Clubs: For practical application and exploration of scientific concepts.
  • Mental Health Club: For Reducing Stigma and Normalising Conversation
  • Red Cross Club: For First Aid and Safety Training, etc

3. Spiritual and Ethical Development

As a private school committed to Christian values, spiritual care is integrated into the after-school routine.

• Collective Worship and Prayer: Programmes of Prayer, Mass, and Retreats are scheduled, especially for the boarding community, to inculcate positive values and sound ethical judgment in students.
• Visits to Religious Centres: The school organises visits to the Nadangira Parish, Kiwamirembe and Mount Zion Prayer Center Bukalango, offering spiritual nourishment and a sense of community.

4. Boarding Student Care and Welfare

For students in the boarding section, the after-school care is an essential component of their daily life, ensuring their physical, social, and emotional well-being.

• Health and Wellness: The ‘Teacher Parent’ is also responsible for sharpening students’ skills in health management and providing crucial information, such as on HIV/AIDS prevention, as part of the holistic care model.
• Orderliness and Discipline: The after-school routine strictly adheres to a set of rules emphasizing orderliness and good manners, which are central to the school’s core values. This structured environment ensures safety, discipline, and a predictable schedule for all residents.
• Social Development: Managed time for relaxation, recreation, and social interaction allows students to develop essential interpersonal skills and build positive relationships with their peers.

In summary, the after-school programmes and student care at Mount of Olives College Kakiri are not simply add-ons but a deliberate, integrated system designed to realise the institution’s mission of providing a comprehensive and holistic education. They blend rigorous academic support with robust talent development and strong ethical and spiritual guidance.