The Montessori method is a globally recognized educational approach that emphasizes self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and collaborative play. For parents in Nairobi looking for a child-centered, holistic education for their young ones, Montessori schools offer an excellent foundation, especially in early childhood education. These schools focus on nurturing a child’s academic, emotional, physical, and social development, following the scientific principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the best Montessori schools in Nairobi, offering excellent facilities and personalized attention to children.
1. Imani Montessori School
Imani Montessori School provides a robust curriculum for infants, toddlers, and pre-schoolers aged between 1.2 to 6 years. The school’s academic programs are designed to foster a strong academic foundation while promoting social, emotional, and moral development.
- Location: Mbabane Road, Off James Gichuru Road
- Contact: 0726 510 062
2. St. Maria Montessori School
St. Maria Montessori School, which opened its doors in 2011, offers a blended curriculum. At the kindergarten level, the school follows the Montessori method, while the primary section adheres to the 8-4-4 system, ensuring a seamless transition for children.
- Contact: 0728 124 453
3. Montessori Learning Centre
Located in Westlands, Montessori Learning Centre is known for providing high-quality Montessori education. The school offers a child-centered learning environment that focuses on personal development alongside academics.
- Location: Grevillea Grove, Off Brookside Drive
- Contacts: 0728 600 011 / 0738 600 011
- Email: info@mlckenya.com
4. Nairobi Montessori School
Nairobi Montessori School, situated in Karen, offers holistic education to children aged 15 months to 9 years. The school’s serene environment promotes independent learning through the use of Montessori tools.
- Location: Karen
- Contact: 0737 073 873
- Email: info@nairobimontessorischool.com
5. Montessori House
Montessori House is committed to providing high-quality early childhood education. The school is housed in a converted bungalow with a lush, serene environment, offering an ideal atmosphere for young children to learn and grow.
- Location: Mountain View Estate
- Contacts: 0719 786 001 / 0736 372 828
6. Princeton Preparatory Schools
Based on Montessori principles of self-directed activity and collaborative learning, Princeton Preparatory Schools is a Christian American Montessori school located in Gigiri. It caters to children from 18 months to 5th grade, promoting both academic excellence and personal growth.
- Location: Gigiri
- Contact: +254 20 389 3200
7. Little Paws Montessori House
Little Paws Montessori House provides early childhood education for children aged 18 months to 5 years. Their program is based on the Montessori philosophy, ensuring children develop essential life skills along with academic knowledge.
- Location: Makindi Road, Off Riara Road
- Contact: 0724 309 993
- Email: info@littlepawshouse.com
8. My School Montessori
Established 19 years ago, My School Montessori provides a Montessori education to children aged 18 months to 6 years. The school also has programs for children with special educational needs up to 10 years old.
- Contacts: 0733 791 161 / 0723 700 309
- Email: myschoolmontessori@gmail.com
9. Key International School
Founded in 1993, Key International School is one of the pioneers of Montessori education in East Africa. The school offers a structured Montessori curriculum designed to build a strong educational foundation for young learners.
- Contacts: 0727 810 350 / 0710 600 350
- Email: ims@montessori.co.ke
10. Lavington Montessori Kindergarten
Lavington Montessori Kindergarten provides Montessori education to children aged 15 months to 6 years. The school focuses on developing concentration, attention span, and body control, creating a supportive environment for learning.
11. Gigiri Montessori House
Gigiri Montessori House is a purpose-built facility with well-lit classrooms and fully equipped Montessori tools. The school focuses on providing a nurturing environment for early childhood education.
- Location: Gigiri
- Contact: 0700 468 558
- Email: gigiri@dukesbridge.com
12. Shadel Montessori Centre
Shadel Montessori Centre offers education and professional care to children between 1.5 years and 7 years. The school is located in Garden Estate and focuses on creating a conducive learning environment for young children.
- Location: Oak Lane, Off Kigwa Road, Garden Estate
- Contacts: 0780 364 150 / 0718 005 374
- Email: info@shadelmontessoricentre.com
13. Bambini Montessori School
Bambini Montessori School provides a prepared environment where children can learn through guided freedom and Montessori tools. The school emphasizes holistic learning and nurturing a child’s curiosity.
- Contacts: 0706 252 909 / 0704 333 393
- Email: info@bambini.co.ke
14. Brookside Montessori Centre
Located in the quiet suburb of Brookside, Brookside Montessori Centre is easily accessible via Waiyaki Way and Lower Kabete Road. The school is fully equipped with Montessori materials and creates a structured environment for young learners.
- Contacts: 0719 786 001 / 0736 372 828
- Email: brookside@montessorihouse.sc.ke
What to Consider When Choosing a Montessori School
When selecting a Montessori school for your child, consider the following factors:
- Authenticity of the Montessori Method: Check whether the school adheres to genuine Montessori principles, including the use of Montessori materials and trained teachers.
- Student-Teacher Ratio: Ensure the school offers a low student-teacher ratio, which is essential for providing individual attention.
- Environment: Montessori schools are designed to foster independent learning, so check that the classrooms are well-equipped with Montessori tools and provide a nurturing environment.
- Holistic Development: Look for schools that focus on both academics and the personal development of your child, including social and emotional skills.
Montessori schools in Nairobi offer a wide range of educational programs that emphasize child-centered learning, independence, and holistic development. Whether you’re looking for a school in Karen, Westlands, or Gigiri, this list provides a variety of options that cater to different needs and preferences. These schools have consistently provided quality early education, ensuring a solid foundation for your child’s future learning journey.