Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy

22/08/2026

At Cherish, we don’t just educate children. We build character, nurture curiosity and prepare future leaders.

18/08/2026

Come and see Montessori in action 💯💝🌎

14/08/2026

DON'T JUST TELL A CHILD WHAT TO STOP DOING. USE THE REPLACEMENT EFFECT.

One thing I have come to understand as a teacher is this:

Correcting a child's habit by simply asking them to stop doing something is not always enough.

Sometimes, it is actually the beginning of another problem.

Children always want to do something.

They have energy.

They have curiosity.

They want to explore.

They want to talk.

They want to play.

They want to interact.

They want to experiment.

They want to express themselves.

So when you tell a child:

"Stop doing that."

The natural question, whether they say it aloud or not, is:

"Then what should I do?"

And this is where many parents and teachers miss an important part of correction.

CORRECTION SHOULD NOT ONLY REMOVE. IT SHOULD REPLACE.

If a child spends too much time on their phone, simply saying:

"Stop using your phone!"

may not solve the problem.

What will the child do instead?

Read?

Play a board game?

Learn a skill?

Help around the house?

Exercise?

Talk with family?

If you don't provide an alternative, the child will eventually return to the same behaviour because the need for activity has not disappeared.

You only removed the activity.

You didn't replace it.

Let's take another example.

A child talks too much in class.

The teacher says:

"Stop talking!"

But perhaps the better correction is:

"I need you to use that ability to participate constructively. When you have something to say, raise your hand. I will give you an opportunity to contribute."

Now you haven't simply suppressed the child's voice.

You've taught them how to use it appropriately.

A child is always disturbing others at home.

Instead of constantly saying:

"Stop disturbing everybody!"

Give the child responsibility.

"Help me arrange these books."

"Can you help your younger sibling with this?"

"I need you to help me with this task."

You have redirected energy instead of merely fighting it.

THIS IS THE POWER OF REPLACEMENT.

If you want a behaviour to disappear, you often need to introduce a healthier behaviour that can take its place.

Don't only say:

"Stop watching television."

Say:

"Let's reduce your television time. After your homework, you can spend some time reading this book, playing outside, or learning this skill."

Don't only say:

"Stop being rude."

Teach:

"When you are angry, tell me what is bothering you without insulting anyone."

Don't only say:

"Stop fighting."

Teach:

"When you have a disagreement, walk away, calm down and come back to talk about it."

Don't only say:

"Stop lying."

Teach:

"Tell me the truth, even when you're afraid of the consequences. We can deal with the mistake together."

Don't only say:

"Stop wasting your time."

Help them understand what they can do with that time.

This is especially important during long vacations.

A child who is told:

"Don't go outside."

may simply spend the entire day online.

A child who is told:

"Don't use your phone."

may become frustrated because there is nothing meaningful replacing that activity.

A child who is told:

"Don't stay idle."

needs to know what meaningful activity is expected of them.

Parents, don't just create a list of things your child is prohibited from doing.

Create a list of things they can and should do.

Give them responsibilities.

Teach them skills.

Allow them to read.

Let them learn a trade where appropriate.

Encourage creative activities.

Let them participate in household responsibilities.

Give them opportunities to communicate.

Take them out.

Spend time with them.

Introduce them to productive experiences.

Don't just restrict their world. Expand it.

AND THIS APPLIES TO TEACHERS TOO.

Sometimes, we complain about a student's behaviour without asking ourselves what we can redirect that behaviour toward.

The student who talks too much may need a leadership responsibility.

The student who is always moving around may need a practical task.

The student who distracts others may need to be engaged more intentionally.

The student who constantly challenges authority may need to learn how to express disagreement respectfully.

Of course, this does not mean we excuse bad behaviour.

No.

Children need boundaries.

They need consequences.

They need discipline.

They need to understand that certain behaviours are unacceptable.

But effective correction should not end with:

"Don't do that."

It should continue with:

"Here's what you should do instead."

That is where transformation begins.

Because if all you teach a child is what NOT to do, they may become very good at avoiding certain behaviours while never learning what healthy behaviour looks like.

CORRECTION IS NOT JUST ABOUT STOPPING.

Correction is about redirecting.

It is about taking something that is being expressed wrongly and teaching the child how to express it appropriately.

Take anger.

Don't only say:

"Stop being angry."

Teach emotional regulation.

Take curiosity.

Don't only say:

"Stop asking unnecessary questions."

Teach them how to ask meaningful questions.

Take energy.

Don't only say:

"Stop disturbing people."

Teach them where and how to channel that energy.

Take independence.

Don't only say:

"Stop doing things on your own."

Teach them how to make responsible decisions.

Take their desire for attention.

Don't simply condemn it.

Teach them healthy ways of communicating their needs.

Because sometimes, behind a behaviour we dislike is a legitimate need that has simply found the wrong expression.

And our responsibility as adults is not merely to suppress the expression.

It is to teach the child a better way to express it.

So, the next time you are about to tell a child:

"Stop!"

Pause for a moment.

Ask yourself:

"What do I want this child to do instead?"

Then teach them.

Because children don't only need instructions about what to avoid.

They need alternatives.

They need direction.

They need examples.

They need practice.

They need patience.

And most importantly, they need adults who understand that correction is not merely about stopping a behaviour.

Correction by replacement is about giving a child something better to become.

12/08/2026

✨ A MOMENT OF PRIDE AND GRATITUDE! 🎓❤️

This week, the Curriculum Director of Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy had the great privilege of signing out one of our former students from Edwin Clark University.

It was a beautiful and deeply fulfilling moment. For an educator, few things compare to the joy of seeing a child you once nurtured grow into a confident young adult and successfully complete a university education.

At Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy, our relationship with our students does not necessarily end when they leave the school. Where we are able to, we continue to follow up on many of our former students, checking on their academic progress, encouraging them and ensuring that they remain focused and on the right track.

Therefore, seeing one of our own successfully graduate from the university is particularly meaningful. It is more than a graduation; it is evidence of a seed that was planted, nurtured and carefully followed through. 🌱🎓

We are incredibly proud of her achievement and grateful for the privilege of being part of her educational journey.

This is what makes education so rewarding — watching the children we taught become the adults we prayed and hoped they would become.

At Cherish, we believe that our responsibility goes beyond the classroom. We nurture, mentor, encourage and celebrate our children wherever life takes them.

And yes, our Cherish children are shining even in higher institutions! 🌟

To God alone be all the glory! 🙏🏽❤️

Cherish children don't just graduate; they go out and shine.

07/08/2026

🏆 OUR SPELLING BEE CHAMPIONS
🌟 Secondary Level Winner:
🏆Zoe Alofokhai

🐝🌟 Primary Level Winners:
🥇 Edesiri Egofuvwe
🥇 Ogonnaya Onyero
👏👏 Congratulations, Champions!
Your hard work, preparation and confidence have paid off. You have shown that when young minds are nurtured and given the opportunity to shine, extraordinary things happen!

07/08/2026

🐝🏆 INTRA-SCHOOL SPELLING BEE 2026 🏆🐝

🔥 WHAT A BATTLE OF BRAINS, CONFIDENCE AND WORD POWER! 🔥

Our Intra-School Spelling Bee 2026 was nothing short of spectacular! Our Spelling Bee Club stepped up, faced challenging words, battled through intense rounds and demonstrated incredible focus, confidence, resilience and vocabulary mastery. 📚🐝

Every round brought a new challenge, but our learners stood tall. They didn't just spell words, they showed us what preparation, courage and determination can produce. 👏🌟

And now, we proudly celebrate our outstanding qualifiers who have earned their place on the National Stage! 🇳🇬🏆

🌟 PRIMARY LEVEL QUALIFIERS

🐝 Zainab Lukuman
🐝 Edesiri Egofuvwe
🐝 Ogonnaya Onyero
🐝 Purity Oghoma
🐝 Elizabeth Emmanuel

🌟 SECONDARY LEVEL QUALIFIERS

🐝 Merry Uriamala
🐝 Abigail Owumi
🐝 Adaeze Madu
🐝 Elliot Afensuku
🐝 Purity Oweibo
🐝 Zoe Alofokhai
🐝 Miracle Oboh
🐝 Ziva Alofokhai
🐝 Emmanuella Owumi
🐝 Godseason Bright
🐝 Chidinma Nwankwo
🐝 Confidence Patrick

🎉 CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR SPELLING BEE CHAMPIONS!

You have made us proud, and this is only the beginning. The National Stage awaits! 🇳🇬🐝

At Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy, we believe that education is not simply about knowing the answers. It is about developing confident minds, courageous hearts and learners who are prepared to shine wherever they go.

To our Spelling Bee Club: keep learning, keep practising, keep believing and keep spelling your way to greatness! 🌟

🐝 SPELL IT. MASTER IT. OWN IT. SHINE! 🏆

Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy
Discover • Nurture • Empower 🌱

07/08/2026

04/08/2026

🎓✨ ADMISSION IS OPEN FOR 2026/2027 ACADEMIC SESSION! ✨🎓

Give your child the gift of a strong foundation, purposeful learning and a future filled with possibilities.

At Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy, we combine the best of Montessori philosophy, Cambridge-inspired learning, character formation and innovative teaching methods to nurture confident, creative and responsible learners.

🌟 Why choose us?
✅ Montessori & Cambridge Learning Approach
✅ Strong Academic Foundation
✅ Moral and Spiritual Development
✅ Bilingual Learning Option
✅ Child-centred Learning Environment
✅ Excellence in Literacy, Numeracy, Creativity and Leadership Skills

🏫 Enrol your child today and become part of a community where we Discover • Nurture • Empower every learner.

📞 Contact us today for admission enquiries and school tour arrangements.

Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy
Where every child is discovered, nurtured and empowered. 🌱📚

31/07/2026

CHERISH MONTESSORI CAMBRIDGE ACADEMY

THIRD TERM NEWSLETTER

2025/2026 Academic Session

Dear Esteemed Parents and Guardians,

Warm greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord.

As another remarkable term comes to a successful close, we give God all the glory for His faithfulness, protection and abundant blessings upon our school community. The third term has been a season of learning, creativity, discovery and outstanding achievements. We sincerely appreciate your unwavering support, cooperation and commitment throughout the term. Your partnership continues to play a vital role in the success of every child.

Academic Excellence

Our learners remained focused and enthusiastic in their studies. Teachers worked diligently to ensure that every learner received quality instruction through engaging, practical and learner-centred lessons. Continuous assessments, revision exercises and end-of-term examinations provided opportunities for learners to demonstrate their academic growth and readiness for the next stage of learning.

Classroom Presentations

This term featured inspiring presentations across different year groups. Learners confidently showcased their understanding through speeches, demonstrations, role plays, debates, poetry recitations, drama, project displays and subject presentations. These activities strengthened their confidence, communication, collaboration and critical thinking skills.

Geography Presentation

Our Year 3 learners delivered an exciting Geography presentation that broadened their understanding of the world. They demonstrated excellent research, public speaking and teamwork, leaving parents proud of their achievements.

Mathematics Activities

Learners participated actively in Mathematics games, practical problem-solving sessions, mental Mathematics challenges and interactive classroom activities. These experiences strengthened logical reasoning, analytical thinking and confidence in solving mathematical problems.

History Week

One of the highlights of the term was our History Week Celebration. Learners explored historical events, famous personalities, cultural heritage and the rich traditions of Nigeria and the world through exhibitions, storytelling, presentations, drama and interactive activities.

Benefits of History Week:

Developed a deeper appreciation of our cultural heritage and national identity.

Improved research, presentation and communication skills.

Encouraged critical thinking by helping learners understand how past events shape the present and future.

Fostered patriotism, tolerance and respect for diverse cultures.

Built confidence through collaborative learning and public presentations.

Montessori Week Celebration

Our Montessori Week was another memorable event. Throughout the week, learners participated in exciting practical life exercises, sensorial activities, language, Mathematics and cultural experiences that reflected the true Montessori philosophy of hands-on learning.

Benefits of Montessori Week:

Promoted independence, responsibility and self-confidence.

Enhanced concentration, coordination and problem-solving skills.

Encouraged creativity, curiosity and a lifelong love for learning.

Developed fine and gross motor skills through purposeful activities.

Strengthened social skills, collaboration and respect for others.

Allowed learners to learn by doing, making education enjoyable, practical and meaningful.

Creative and Performing Arts

Creativity flourished throughout the term as learners participated in music, drama, dance and creative arts. Their outstanding performances reflected confidence, teamwork, discipline and artistic expression.

French Language Activities

As a bilingual school, our learners confidently presented drama and identified everyday objects in both French and English. These activities enhanced pronunciation, vocabulary development and confidence in communicating in both languages.

Public Speaking and Leadership

Our Public Speaking Club continued to nurture confident communicators and future leaders. Learners delivered speeches on a variety of topics, improving their articulation, confidence, leadership qualities and persuasive speaking abilities.

Character and Christian Values Education

As a Christian school, we remained committed to nurturing not only the minds but also the hearts of our learners. Daily devotions, Bible teachings and moral instruction continued to instil integrity, discipline, honesty, kindness, responsibility and respect for God and humanity.

Practical and Experiential Learning

Our learners benefited from practical learning experiences that connected classroom knowledge with real-life applications. These activities encouraged creativity, innovation, collaboration and independent thinking.

End-of-Session Activities

The term concluded with a simple yet meaningful end-of-session celebration in line with government guidelines. We celebrated the achievements and progress of every learner while recognising our graduating pupils for their hard work, perseverance and resilience.

Appreciation

We express our heartfelt appreciation to our exceptional teachers for their unwavering dedication, professionalism and passion for nurturing every child. We also thank our wonderful parents and guardians for trusting us with the education of your children and for partnering with us throughout the academic year.

Together, we are raising confident, compassionate, knowledgeable and God-fearing leaders for tomorrow.

Holiday Wishes

As we begin the long vacation, we encourage our learners to:

Read every day.

Practise Mathematics regularly.

Complete all holiday assignments.

Develop positive habits and life skills.

Spend quality time with family.

Stay safe and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Holiday Club
We also invite children to participate in our 2026 Holiday Club/Summer School Programme, where learning continues through exciting academic, creative, technological, sporting and recreational activities designed to keep young minds engaged throughout the holiday.

Thank you for choosing Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy. We remain committed to our vision of providing a world-class education in a nurturing Christian environment where every child is empowered to discover their potential, develop their talents and become responsible global citizens.

May God Almighty continue to bless your family abundantly and grant us all a refreshing and fulfilling holiday.

Warm regards,

Dr. (Chief Mrs.) Theresa Ojigho
Proprietor & Curriculum Director
Cherish Montessori Cambridge Academy

Discover • Nurture • Empower