Kenya is renowned for its diverse educational offerings, including some of the best international schools in Africa. These schools provide a world-class education, blending global curricula with local values, and are highly sought after by expatriates, diplomats, and Kenyan families alike. With a focus on academic excellence, cultural diversity, and holistic development, international schools in Kenya are ideal for parents seeking quality education for their children.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best international schools in Kenya, offering a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best fit for your child. These schools have been selected based on their curricula, facilities, extracurricular activities, and overall reputation. Let’s take a closer look at the leading international schools in Kenya.
1. International School of Kenya (ISK)
Located in the serene neighborhood of Kitisuru, Nairobi, the International School of Kenya (ISK) is one of the most prestigious international schools in East Africa. ISK offers an American-based curriculum from pre-kindergarten through Grade 12, with an emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for high school students. ISK is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, science labs, sports fields, and a performing arts center.
Key Features:
- American-based curriculum with IB Diploma Programme
- Diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities
- State-of-the-art facilities and extracurricular activities
- Emphasis on critical thinking and global citizenship
2. Brookhouse School
Brookhouse School, located in Langata, Nairobi, is a leading British-curriculum school that offers education from early years to A-levels. Founded in 1981, Brookhouse is known for its rigorous academic programs, which prepare students for top universities worldwide. The school also places a strong emphasis on holistic development, with a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service. Brookhouse has a second campus in Runda, offering the same high-quality education.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum with A-levels
- Strong emphasis on academic excellence and holistic development
- Wide range of extracurricular activities
- Two campuses: Langata and Runda
3. Braeburn Schools
Braeburn Schools is a group of international schools in Kenya that offers the British National Curriculum from early years to A-levels. With campuses in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nanyuki, Braeburn is one of the largest and most respected international school networks in Kenya. The schools are known for their commitment to academic excellence, cultural diversity, and nurturing environments. Braeburn also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service programs.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum from early years to A-levels
- Multiple campuses across Kenya
- Commitment to academic excellence and cultural diversity
- Extensive extracurricular programs
4. Peponi School
Peponi School, located in Ruiru, just outside Nairobi, is a prestigious British-curriculum school offering education from preparatory to secondary level. The school is known for its strong academic program, which prepares students for the IGCSE and A-level examinations. Peponi School is set on a beautiful 50-acre campus, providing students with access to excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, science labs, sports fields, and boarding facilities. The school also places a strong emphasis on character development and leadership skills.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum with IGCSE and A-levels
- Beautiful 50-acre campus with excellent facilities
- Strong focus on character development and leadership
- Boarding facilities available
5. GEMS Cambridge International School
Visit GEMS Cambridge International School
GEMS Cambridge International School, located in Karen, Nairobi, is part of the global GEMS Education network, offering the British National Curriculum from early years to A-levels. The school is known for its modern facilities, including science labs, a swimming pool, and a performing arts center. GEMS Cambridge places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, and global citizenship. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum from early years to A-levels
- Modern facilities and innovative teaching methods
- Focus on academic excellence and global citizenship
- Part of the global GEMS Education network
6. Hillcrest International Schools
Visit Hillcrest International Schools
Hillcrest International Schools, located in Karen, Nairobi, is a renowned British-curriculum school offering education from early years to A-levels. Founded in 1966, Hillcrest is known for its strong academic program, nurturing environment, and commitment to holistic education. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service. Hillcrest also boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, science labs, and sports fields.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum from early years to A-levels
- Strong academic program and nurturing environment
- Extensive extracurricular activities
- Excellent facilities in the serene Karen neighborhood
7. Nairobi International School (NIS)
Visit Nairobi International School
Nairobi International School (NIS) is a British-curriculum school located in Lavington, Nairobi. The school offers education from early years to A-levels, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. NIS is known for its dedicated and experienced teaching staff, small class sizes, and individualized attention to students. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service programs.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum from early years to A-levels
- Emphasis on academic excellence and character development
- Small class sizes and individualized attention
- Located in the upscale neighborhood of Lavington
8. St. Andrew’s School, Turi
Visit St. Andrew’s School, Turi
St. Andrew’s School, Turi, located in the Rift Valley, is a prestigious British-curriculum boarding school offering education from preparatory to secondary level. Founded in 1931, St. Andrew’s is known for its strong academic program, Christian values, and commitment to holistic education. The school offers the IGCSE and A-level examinations, preparing students for top universities worldwide. St. Andrew’s is set on a beautiful 400-acre campus, providing students with access to excellent facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum with IGCSE and A-levels
- Prestigious boarding school with Christian values
- Beautiful 400-acre campus with excellent facilities
- Strong focus on academic excellence and holistic education
9. Rosslyn Academy
Rosslyn Academy, located in the Rosslyn neighborhood of Nairobi, is a leading American-curriculum school offering education from kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is known for its strong academic program, Christian values, and commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Rosslyn Academy offers the Advanced Placement (AP) program for high school students, preparing them for top universities in the United States and around the world. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service.
Key Features:
- American-curriculum school with AP program
- Strong academic program and Christian values
- Emphasis on holistic development and extracurricular activities
- Located in the upscale Rosslyn neighborhood
10. Kenton College Preparatory School
Visit Kenton College Preparatory School
Kenton College Preparatory School, located in the leafy suburb of Kileleshwa, Nairobi, is a prestigious British-curriculum preparatory school. Founded in 1924, Kenton is known for its commitment to academic excellence, character development, and nurturing environment. The school offers a rich and diverse curriculum, preparing students for entry into top secondary schools in Kenya and abroad. Kenton College also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and community service.
Key Features:
- British National Curriculum preparatory school
- Focus on academic excellence and character development
- Rich and diverse curriculum with extracurricular activities
- Prestigious school with a long history of excellence
Conclusion
Choosing the right international school for your child is a critical decision that can shape their future. The top 10 international schools in Kenya listed above offer world-class education, diverse curricula, and a commitment to holistic development. Whether you prefer the British or American curriculum, these schools provide an environment where your child can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Each of these schools is renowned for its academic excellence, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedication to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Explore these top international schools in Kenya and give your child the best start in life.
Ready to find the perfect school for your child? Explore the best international schools in Kenya and secure a world-class education for your little one!
