Mombasa’s private schools are more than just classrooms—they’re hubs of innovation and growth. According to the Kenya Private Schools Association , private institutions nationwide educate over 2.1 million primary students and 277,000 secondary students, with Mombasa playing a key role in this ecosystem. In 2025, these schools are thriving, and here’s why:
- Top-Notch Facilities: Think ICT labs, swimming pools, and sports fields that rival international standards.
- Academic Prowess: Many boast mean scores above 9.0 in KCSE, securing spots in Kenya’s top rankings.
- Personalized Learning: Smaller class sizes mean teachers can focus on your child’s unique needs.
- Global Exposure: Options like the British IGCSE and IB curricula prepare students for the world stage.
- Coastal Advantage: Mombasa’s laid-back vibe blends with a competitive educational edge.
For Kenyan business professionals, these schools aren’t just about education—they’re investments in your child’s future career, whether it’s in Mombasa’s booming tourism sector or beyond. Let’s break down the best of the best.
Top Private Primary Schools in Mombasa for 2025
Primary education lays the groundwork, and Mombasa’s private primaries are stepping up with the CBC in full swing. Here’s a curated list of the best private primary schools in Mombasa for 2025, based on performance, facilities, and parent buzz.
1. Light International School – Mombasa
- Location: Off Greenwood Drive, Nyali
- Curriculum: British (IPC) and CBC
- Why It Stands Out: Light International topped the Coast in KCPE 2023 with a mean score of 400, and 18 students scored above 400 marks. In 2025, its CBC rollout shines with a focus on STEM and co-curriculars like swimming and robotics.
- Fees: KES 150,000–200,000 annually
- Insight: Perfect for parents eyeing global opportunities for their kids.
2. Nyali Primary School
- Location: Links Road, Nyali
- Curriculum: CBC
- Why It Stands Out: Known for its 2023 KCPE topper, Shawn Jeremy Wachira (419 marks), Nyali blends academics with extras like cooking classes and IT. It’s a coastal leader in CBC adoption.
- Fees: KES 80,000–120,000 per year
- Insight: Affordable excellence with a community feel.
3. MM Shah and MV Shah Academy
- Location: Kongowea, Mombasa
- Curriculum: CBC and International Section (since 2021)
- Why It Stands Out: With a legacy since 1953, this school offers a robust CBC program plus an ICT suite, science lab, and music room. It’s a consistent performer in national assessments.
- Fees: KES 100,000–150,000 annually
- Insight: A blend of tradition and modernity for forward-thinking families.
4. Braeburn Mombasa International School – Primary
- Location: Nyali
- Curriculum: British (National Curriculum of England and Wales)
- Why It Stands Out: Accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), Braeburn offers a safe, nurturing space with arts and sports like rugby and netball. It’s a magnet for expat and local families.
- Fees: KES 200,000–300,000 per year
- Insight: Premium education with a global edge.
5. Memon Academy
- Location: Mombasa
- Curriculum: CBC
- Why It Stands Out: In 2023 KCPE, top student Fatma Ali scored 406 marks, with six students above 400. It’s known for strong academics and a supportive environment.
- Fees: KES 70,000–110,000 annually
- Insight: Budget-friendly with proven results.
Top Private Secondary Schools in Mombasa for 2025
Secondary education is where the stakes get higher, and Mombasa’s private high schools are delivering. Here’s the rundown of the best private secondary schools in Mombasa for 2025, backed by 2024 KCSE data and ongoing trends.
1. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Secondary School
- Location: 7 km from Mombasa on Mombasa-Malindi Highway
- Curriculum: 8-4-4
- Why It Stands Out: With a 2024 KCSE mean of 9.13, this school—founded in 1985 with UAE support—excels in academics and Islamic values. Its technical programs are a bonus.
- Fees: KES 150,000–200,000 annually
- Insight: A top pick for disciplined, high-achieving students.
2. Aga Khan High School – Mombasa
- Location: Off Nyerere Avenue, near Aga Khan Hospital
- Curriculum: CBC and IGCSE
- Why It Stands Out: A 2024 KCSE mean of 9.0 reflects its multi-disciplinary approach. With clubs like Junior Achievement and debate, it’s a holistic standout.
- Fees: KES 180,000–250,000 per year
- Insight: Ideal for parents seeking diversity and global curricula.
3. Light Academy – Mombasa
- Location: Nyali
- Curriculum: 8-4-4
- Why It Stands Out: Known for producing morally upright, academically strong students, Light posted a 2024 KCSE mean of 8.5. Its international project Olympiad participation adds flair.
- Fees: KES 160,000–220,000 annually
- Insight: A rising star with a global outlook.
4. Braeburn Mombasa International School – Secondary
- Location: Nyali
- Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Why It Stands Out: Part of the Braeburn Group, it’s CIS-accredited and offers boarding. Its 2024 IGCSE results were stellar, making it a coastal leader.
- Fees: KES 300,000–450,000 per year (day); KES 1 million+ (boarding)
- Insight: Elite education for the globally ambitious.
5. Abu Hureira Academy
- Location: Mombasa
- Curriculum: 8-4-4 with Islamic studies
- Why It Stands Out: A 2024 KCSE mean of 8.2 and a unique integration of secular and Islamic curricula make it a standout. It’s nonprofit and community-driven.
- Fees: KES 100,000–150,000 annually
- Insight: Value-driven education with solid results.
What Sets Mombasa’s Best Private Schools Apart?
Wondering what makes these schools the cream of the crop? Here’s the breakdown:
- Academic Excellence: From Light’s 400 KCPE mean to Sheikh Khalifa’s 9.13 KCSE mean, results speak volumes.
- Modern Infrastructure: ICT labs, science rooms, and sports facilities are standard.
- Curriculum Variety: CBC, 8-4-4, and British options cater to diverse goals.
- Teacher Commitment: Qualified staff ensure personalized attention.
- Coastal Edge: Mombasa’s multicultural vibe enriches the learning experience.
How to Choose the Right Private School in Mombasa
Picking a school isn’t just about rankings—it’s about fit. Here’s a checklist for Kenyan professionals:
- Performance Metrics: Look at recent KCSE/KCPE means—aim for 350+ (primary) or 7+ (secondary).
- Facility Tour: Visit to see labs, libraries, and sports areas in action.
- Budget Fit: Fees range from KES 70,000 to KES 450,000+ annually—know your limit.
- Location Matters: Nyali schools like Braeburn suit urban families; others like Sheikh Khalifa are accessible from outskirts.
- Extras Count: Sports, arts, or STEM focus? Match it to your child’s interests.
- Parent Feedback: Chat with other parents or check forums like Jambo News for insights.
Pro Tip: Mombasa’s traffic can be a beast—choose a school that aligns with your commute or offers boarding.
The Cost of Quality Education in Mombasa
Let’s talk cash—because quality comes at a price. Here’s the fee landscape for Mombasa’s best private schools in 2025:
- Affordable Tier: KES 70,000–120,000/year (e.g., Memon, Nyali)
- Mid-Range: KES 150,000–250,000/year (e.g., Sheikh Khalifa, Aga Khan)
- Premium: KES 300,000–450,000/year (e.g., Braeburn day); KES 1 million+ (boarding)
Makini Schools pegs Kenya’s private education average at KES 60,000–500,000 annually, and Mombasa fits this range. For business pros, it’s a strategic spend—top schools often lead to top universities and careers.
Trends Shaping Mombasa’s Private Schools in 2025
What’s new in 2025? Here’s what’s driving these schools forward:
- CBC Mastery: Full implementation focuses on skills like critical thinking and digital literacy.
- Tech Boom: E-learning platforms and coding classes are now staples.
- Sustainability Push: Schools like Braeburn embrace eco-friendly practices.
- Global Reach: IGCSE and IB options grow, targeting international universities.
These trends ensure Mombasa’s students are ready for a fast-changing world—a win for Kenya’s coastal economy.
Challenges Facing Mombasa’s Private Schools
It’s not all smooth sailing. Here’s what to watch:
- Fee Pressure: Inflation in 2025 is nudging costs up, squeezing some families.
- Teacher Retention: Competition for top talent is stiff, especially with international schools.
- Infrastructure Costs: Maintaining modern facilities isn’t cheap.
Still, these schools adapt, leveraging Mombasa’s resilience to stay ahead.
