Located in the serene and affluent neighborhood of Kitisuru, Nairobi, Kirawa Road School has established itself as a beacon of holistic education in Kenya since its founding in 2000. Renowned for its commitment to nurturing every child’s unique gifts, the school offers a Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) that prepares students for a dynamic and diverse world. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Kirawa Road School, from its educational philosophy and curriculum to its alumni success, boarding facilities, and extracurricular offerings. Whether you’re a parent seeking the best school for your child or an education enthusiast, this article provides an in-depth look at why Kirawa Road School stands out.
The Vision and Mission of Kirawa Road School
Kirawa Road School’s core belief is that “every child has unique gifts to be nurtured and shared with the world.” Established in 2000, the school has remained steadfast in creating an authentic learning environment that prioritizes diversity among students and teachers. This approach fosters compassion, empathy, tolerance, and an appreciation for individual strengths and differences, preparing students for a globalized future.
The school’s educational philosophy is rooted in the idea that greatness resides within every student. By recognizing and developing multiple intelligences—interpersonal, linguistic, mathematical, musical, artistic, kinesthetic, and naturalist—Kirawa Road School ensures a broad and balanced curriculum that supports academic, personal, and social growth.
Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC): A Modern Approach to Education
Kirawa Road School is a CBC preparatory school, fully aligned with Kenya’s new education system launched in January 2021. The Competency-Based Curriculum replaced the 8-4-4 system, emphasizing skills development over rote memorization. Here are key highlights of the CBC as implemented at Kirawa Road School:
- Focus on Competencies: Students are evaluated based on their ability to apply knowledge practically, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Hands-On Learning: The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications, encouraging students to tackle challenges through projects and practical exercises.
- Flexibility in Teaching: Teachers adapt lessons to meet individual student needs, ensuring personalized learning experiences.
- Integration of Technology: Digital tools are used to enhance classroom learning, with teachers trained to leverage technology effectively.
- African Values and Culture: The CBC incorporates African heritage, helping students appreciate their cultural roots.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Subjects are interconnected, promoting a holistic understanding of concepts.
Kirawa Road School’s teachers undergo rigorous training to deliver the CBC effectively, with continuous professional development ensuring they remain equipped to meet modern educational demands.
Academic Excellence and Holistic Development
Kirawa Road School’s curriculum is designed to culminate in the CBC, preparing students for meaningful and successful lives. The school’s holistic approach ensures that students excel academically while developing essential life skills. The curriculum supports:
- Academic Courses: Core subjects like mathematics, languages, and sciences are taught with an emphasis on practical application.
- Residential Life: Boarding facilities foster independence, teamwork, and community living.
- Enrichment Experiences: Extracurricular activities, including robotics, coding, scouting, taekwondo, and chess, enhance creativity and critical thinking.
The school’s state-of-the-art facilities, including modern science laboratories and a well-equipped library, support experiential learning. For instance, students conduct their own experiments in the science lab, fostering intellectual curiosity and research skills.
Diversity and Inclusion: A Cornerstone of Kirawa Road School
Kirawa Road School prides itself on its diverse community of students and teachers. This diversity is not just a feature but a fundamental aspect of the school’s identity, preparing students for a multicultural world. The school’s inclusive environment teaches students to:
- Celebrate differences in culture, background, and abilities.
- Develop empathy and compassion through collaborative learning.
- Build tolerance and respect for others’ perspectives.
This commitment to diversity is reflected in the school’s hiring practices, with teachers registered with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and trained in CBC delivery. The school’s inclusive ethos ensures that every child feels valued and supported, regardless of their background.
Boarding Facilities: A Home Away from Home
Kirawa Road School offers both weekly and full-time boarding options, catering to families seeking a structured and supportive environment for their children. The boarding facilities are designed to promote:
- Independence: Students learn to manage their time and responsibilities.
- Community Spirit: Shared living spaces foster friendships and teamwork.
- Safety and Comfort: The school has invested in a secure transportation system, ensuring students are transported safely and on time.
Boarding students benefit from a balanced routine that includes academic support, extracurricular activities, and pastoral care. The school’s affiliation with ACK St. Bartholomew Nyari provides spiritual guidance, with Sunday services and Christian teachings reinforcing values like integrity and self-worth.
Extracurricular Activities: Nurturing Well-Rounded Individuals
Kirawa Road School goes beyond academics to offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that develop students’ talents and life skills. Notable programs include:
- Robotics and Coding: These programs enhance creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, preparing students for careers in technology-driven fields like engineering and science.
- Scouting: Through outdoor activities and leadership training, scouting instills resilience, responsibility, and community spirit.
- Taekwondo: This martial art teaches discipline, respect, and self-control, contributing to students’ physical and mental well-being.
- Chess: Lessons emphasize strategy and development, helping students improve focus and decision-making skills.
- Sports and Games: Activities like swimming and team sports promote physical health and teamwork.
These programs align with the school’s belief that play benefits children’s cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being, equipping them with skills for academics, careers, and relationships.
Alumni Success: A Testament to Quality Education
Kirawa Road School’s alumni, some of whom graduated as early as 2008, remain an integral part of the school community. They participate in seminars and mentorship programs, sharing their experiences with current students. Alumni have achieved success in diverse fields, including:
- Law: Advocating for justice and policy reform.
- Entrepreneurship: Launching innovative businesses.
- Medicine: Serving as doctors and healthcare professionals.
- Engineering: Contributing to infrastructure and technology development.
- Teaching: Shaping the next generation of learners.
- Government Service: Leading in public administration and policy.
The school’s impressive performance in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) further underscores its academic excellence. In 2022, top students like Jeremy Mbugua (410 marks), Cindy Wahinya, and Shirleen Njeri (both 401 marks) exemplified the school’s commitment to nurturing high achievers.
Fees Structure and Contact Information
Kirawa Road School is a private primary school, and its fees cover a comprehensive range of services, including tuition, lunch, exercise books, French and computer lessons (from Grade 1), sports, swimming, library access, maintenance, and examinations. The fee structure for 2024 is as follows:
- Creche: KSh 22,000 per term
- PP1: Contact the school for updated fees
- Higher Grades: Fees vary by grade level; contact the school for details
Note that fees are subject to change, and parents are encouraged to reach out for the latest fee policies.
For inquiries, contact the school via:
- Phone: +254 (0) 724 984 363
- Email: kirawaschooladm@gmail.com
- Address: P.O. Box 00300, Nairobi, Kenya
- Alternative Phone: 0722272500 (for KCPE-related inquiries)
Location and Accessibility
Situated along Kirawa Road in Kitisuru, Kirawa Road School is located in one of Nairobi’s most affluent neighborhoods, approximately 7 km from the city center. The school’s serene environment is ideal for learning, with nearby landmarks including the International School of Kenya and the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) Campus.
The school is accessible via public and private transport, and its secure transportation system ensures safe commuting for students. The surrounding Kitisuru area is known for its tranquil setting, making it an ideal location for a focused educational experience.
Why Choose Kirawa Road School?
Kirawa Road School stands out as a top choice for parents seeking a holistic, inclusive, and future-focused education for their children. Here are compelling reasons to consider the school:
- CBC-Aligned Curriculum: Prepares students for Kenya’s modern education system.
- Diverse and Inclusive Environment: Fosters empathy and global citizenship.
- Holistic Development: Balances academics with extracurricular and life skills.
- Proven Academic Success: Demonstrated by strong KCPE results and alumni achievements.
- Modern Facilities: Includes science labs, libraries, and safe boarding options.
- Engaged Alumni Network: Provides mentorship and inspiration for current students.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Kirawa Road School excels in many areas, private schools in Kenya face challenges such as rising operational costs and the need for continuous teacher training to keep pace with CBC requirements. However, Kirawa Road School addresses these challenges through strategic investments in facilities, professional development, and community engagement.
Opportunities for growth include expanding its junior secondary wing, which is already prepared for CBC intake, and further integrating technology into the classroom. The school’s focus on robotics and coding positions it as a leader in STEM education, aligning with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals.
Kirawa Road School – Kitisuru is more than just a school; it’s a community where every child’s potential is celebrated and nurtured. With its CBC-aligned curriculum, diverse and inclusive environment, and commitment to holistic education, the school prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. From its modern facilities to its engaged alumni network, Kirawa Road School offers a transformative educational experience that equips students for success in academics and beyond.
