Hillcrest International School, situated along Langata Road in the upscale neighborhood of Karen, Nairobi, has long been known for its quality British education curriculum and holistic approach to learning. Established in 1975, Hillcrest is a member of the esteemed Braeburn Group, which operates several top international schools across Kenya. Renowned for providing an academically rigorous and well-rounded education, Hillcrest offers its students a supportive environment to grow and thrive, from early years through to A-Levels and BTEC programs.
This article provides an in-depth overview of Hillcrest’s fee structure for the academic year, covering all key stages, lunch fees, boarding fees, and deposit requirements.
Overview of Hillcrest International School
Hillcrest is divided into four main educational sections:
- Early Years (Playgroup, Nursery, Reception, and Year 1)
- Preparatory School (Key Stages 1, 2, and 3, covering Years 2 through 8)
- Secondary School (Years 9 to 11)
- Sixth Form (Years 12 to 13, offering A-Levels and BTEC courses)
Each section focuses on nurturing students’ academic, emotional, and social development. Using the British curriculum, Hillcrest emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and personal development, allowing students to prepare for both local and global challenges.
Hillcrest International School Fees Structure
Hillcrest’s fee structure reflects its commitment to offering high-quality education, with variations based on the year group, boarding options, and other services like lunch provision. Below is a detailed breakdown of fees across different academic levels.
1. Deposit Fees
- Playgroup to Year 1: Ksh 25,000
- Year 2 to Year 8: Ksh 50,000
- Year 9 to A-Levels: Ksh 100,000
These deposit fees are paid once upon joining the school and help secure the student’s place.
2. Annual Tuition Fees
| Year Group | Annual Tuition Fee (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Playgroup (Mornings Only) | 352,200 |
| Nursery (Mornings Only) | 703,800 |
| Nursery (Full Day) | 867,900 |
| FS1 (Mornings Only) | 774,300 |
| FS1 (Full Day) | 938,400 |
| FS2 | 1,059,300 |
| Year 1 | 1,231,500 |
| Year 2 | 1,773,000 |
| Year 3 – 5 | 2,241,300 |
| Year 6 | 2,305,200 |
| Year 7 – 8 | 2,406,300 |
| Year 9 | 2,502,600 |
| Year 10 | 2,718,300 |
| Year 11 | 2,718,300 |
| Year 12 | 2,908,500 |
| Year 13 (BTEC & A’Levels) | Variable, see below |
Hillcrest offers flexibility in Year 13 with multiple BTEC and A-Level combinations, catering to students’ preferences and future academic or career ambitions.
3. Detailed Year 13 Fee Structure
Hillcrest’s Sixth Form program is unique, offering a variety of combinations in Year 13 to suit students’ goals, whether focused on A-Levels, BTEC, or both. Here’s a breakdown:
| Year 13 Combination | Annual Fee (KSh) |
|---|---|
| BTEC x 1 + 3 A’Levels | 2,908,500 |
| BTEC x 3 + no A’Levels | 2,181,600 |
| BTEC x 2 + 1 A’Level | 2,414,100 |
| BTEC x 1 + 2 A’Levels | 2,663,100 |
This tailored approach enables students to select the mix of coursework that aligns best with their academic strengths and future career paths.
4. Lunch Fees
Lunch is an optional addition to Hillcrest’s educational fees and is available for students in Year 9 through Year 13. The annual lunch fee is set at:
- Year 9 to Year 13: Ksh 124,500 per year
Hillcrest’s meals are designed to cater to students’ nutritional needs, enhancing their energy and focus during the day.
5. Boarding Fees
Hillcrest offers boarding facilities for students from Year 7 onwards, including both weekly and full boarding options. Boarding at Hillcrest provides a supportive environment, allowing students to build independence, social skills, and strong friendships. The boarding fees are as follows:
| Boarding Type | Annual Fee (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Deposit | 28,955 |
| Full Boarding | 1,004,100 (Year 7 – BTEC) |
| Weekly Boarding | 637,200 (Year 7 – BTEC) |
Full boarding covers all days of the week, while weekly boarding allows students to go home during weekends.
Key Benefits of Choosing Hillcrest International School
- British Curriculum: Hillcrest’s British curriculum is globally recognized, preparing students to succeed in competitive environments worldwide.
- Experienced Faculty: The school boasts a dedicated team of teachers who are experienced in nurturing students to their full potential.
- Comprehensive Facilities: Hillcrest has invested in state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, sports fields, and a library, to support well-rounded education.
- Extracurricular Activities: Hillcrest encourages students to participate in sports, music, drama, and other clubs, fostering teamwork and creativity.
- University Preparation: The Sixth Form program prepares students for university admission worldwide, with career counseling and university application support.
Contact Information for Hillcrest International School
For further inquiries regarding admissions, fee policies, or other details, you may contact Hillcrest International School through the following:
- Early Years and Preparatory Schools
- Tel: +254 724-256 173, +254 717-969-450
- Email: admissions@hillcrest.ac.ke
- Secondary School
- Tel: +254 710-600-359, +254 724-255-444
- Email: admissions@hillcrest.ac.ke
Key Considerations for Prospective Parents
1. Educational Philosophy
Hillcrest’s approach to education is child-centered, emphasizing both academic and personal growth. It fosters a learning environment that respects individual learning paces, talents, and interests, ensuring that each child’s unique strengths are nurtured.
2. Flexible Learning Options
Hillcrest’s combination of A-Levels and BTEC qualifications offers students the flexibility to pursue either academic or vocational pathways, aligning with global education trends that emphasize skill-based learning.
3. Diverse Community and Cultural Exposure
The school’s international atmosphere exposes students to diverse cultural backgrounds, preparing them for global citizenship and understanding.
4. Focus on Student Well-being
Hillcrest prioritizes the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of students, offering access to counselors, support groups, and programs tailored to nurture a balanced life.
Why Choose a British Curriculum School?
British Curriculum schools like Hillcrest offer the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and A-Levels, recognized by universities and employers worldwide. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, creativity, and subject mastery, allowing students to develop a robust academic foundation. Kenyan students who follow the British Curriculum are well-prepared for global higher education opportunities and careers, thanks to the curriculum’s focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary learning.
Hillcrest International School stands as one of Kenya’s premier institutions, known for its outstanding academic program, robust extracurricular offerings, and commitment to holistic student development. While the fees reflect a significant investment, the quality of education, coupled with the British Curriculum, offers students an invaluable foundation for their future careers and lives.
With its beautiful location in Karen and affiliation with the reputable Braeburn Group, Hillcrest ensures students receive a well-rounded education that nurtures them academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether parents are looking for early years, preparatory, or secondary education for their children, Hillcrest provides a supportive, enriching environment that builds lifelong learners and global citizens.
