Strathmore School, a prestigious private boys’ day school in Nairobi, Kenya, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development grounded in Christian principles. As a leading institution following the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), Strathmore offers a structured pathway for students transitioning to Senior School (Grade 10). This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details about the Grade 10 application process for the 2026 academic year, including requirements, deadlines, pathways, and tips for success. This article ensures prospective students and parents have everything they need to navigate the process seamlessly.
About Strathmore School
Founded in 1961 as a Sixth Form college, Strathmore School has evolved into a leading private institution offering the 8-4-4 curriculum and now the CBC. Located in Nairobi’s Westlands Constituency, the school serves approximately 630 students, many of whom benefit from financial aid. Strathmore’s mission is to develop students academically and morally, fostering self-discipline and resourcefulness to prepare them for impactful societal contributions. The school’s Christian ethos, guided by Opus Dei, emphasizes academic rigor, moral integrity, and community service.
Strathmore School’s transition to the CBC aligns with Kenya’s educational reforms, focusing on competency-based learning to equip students with practical skills. For Grade 10 applicants, understanding the school’s Senior School pathways and admission criteria is crucial for a successful application.
Understanding Senior School Pathways at Strathmore
Under the CBC, Senior School (Grades 10–12) requires students to choose specific pathways and tracks that align with their career aspirations and academic strengths. Strathmore School offers two distinct pathways for Grade 10 students: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Social Sciences. Before applying, students must decide on their preferred pathway and confirm that their desired learning areas are available at Strathmore.
Core Learning Areas
All Grade 10 students at Strathmore, regardless of their chosen pathway, are required to take the following foundational subjects:
- English: Enhances communication and critical thinking skills.
- Kiswahili Lugha: Strengthens linguistic and cultural proficiency.
- Physical Education: Promotes physical fitness and teamwork.
- Community Service Learning: Encourages civic responsibility and societal contribution.
These core subjects ensure a well-rounded education, aligning with Strathmore’s mission to develop students holistically.
Optional Learning Areas
Students must select additional learning areas based on their chosen pathway. Below is a breakdown of the options available:
STEM Pathway
The STEM pathway is designed for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-related careers. It requires:
- Mathematics (compulsory for all STEM students).
- Two additional learning areas from the following:
- Chemistry: Focuses on chemical principles and laboratory skills.
- Physics: Explores physical laws and their applications.
- Biology: Covers life sciences and biological processes.
- Computer Studies: Emphasizes programming and digital literacy.
This pathway prepares students for careers in fields like engineering, medicine, data science, and technology.
Social Sciences Pathway
The Social Sciences pathway suits students interested in humanities, business, and social studies. Students must choose:
- At least two learning areas from:
- History and Citizenship: Explores historical events and civic responsibilities.
- Geography: Studies physical and human geography.
- Business Studies: Introduces business concepts and entrepreneurship.
- One additional learning area from:
- Mathematics: For students seeking a quantitative edge.
- French: Enhances language skills and global communication.
- Computer Studies: Provides digital skills for modern careers.
This pathway prepares students for careers in law, journalism, business, and international relations.
Choosing the Right Pathway
Selecting a pathway is a critical decision that requires careful consideration of a student’s interests, academic strengths, and career goals. Parents and students are encouraged to:
- Review career aspirations: Discuss long-term goals to ensure the chosen pathway aligns with future academic or professional plans.
- Consult with teachers: Seek guidance from current school educators to assess strengths in relevant subjects.
- Research Strathmore’s offerings: Confirm that the preferred learning areas are available, as availability of space can influence admission decisions.
Strathmore’s focus on STEM and Social Sciences ensures students have access to diverse, high-demand fields, but the choice must be finalized before applying to streamline the admission process.
Strathmore School Grade 10 Admission Criteria
Admission to Strathmore School’s Grade 10 is highly competitive, with the number of applicants often exceeding available spaces. The school employs a rigorous selection process to identify students capable of meeting its demanding academic standards. The admission criteria include:
- Overall Performance in Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA): The KJSEA, taken at the end of Grade 9, is a key determinant. A strong overall score is essential for consideration.
- Performance in KJSEA Cluster Subjects: Applicants must excel in the subjects aligned with their chosen pathway (e.g., Mathematics and Sciences for STEM, Humanities for Social Sciences).
- Performance in Strathmore Entrance Test: A mandatory written test assessing aptitude in English and Mathematics, followed by an oral interview.
- Availability of Space: Admission depends on available slots in the chosen pathway and learning areas.
These criteria ensure that only students with the academic ability and motivation to thrive at Strathmore are selected.
Step-by-Step Admission Process for Grade 10
The application process for Strathmore School’s Grade 10 is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Below is a detailed guide to the steps involved:
- Download the Application Form: Visit the Strathmore School website (www.strathmore.ac.ke) to download the Grade 10 application form for the 2026 academic year.
- Complete the Form: Fill in all required fields, including:
- Student’s personal details.
- Parents’/guardians’ information and signatures.
- National Education Management Information System (NEMIS)/Unique Personal Identifier (UPI) number.
- Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) Assessment Number from the applicant’s current school.
- Attach a Photograph: Affix a recent, colored, passport-size photograph of the applicant in the designated space on the form.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Scan and compile the following into a single PDF document:
- Completed application form.
- Copy of the applicant’s birth certificate.
- Copy of Grade 9 Term 1 assessment results.
- Submit the Application: Email the PDF document to admissions@strathmore.ac.ke, with the subject line being the candidate’s full name.
- Await Confirmation: Within 7 working days, the school will send an email confirming receipt of the application, including:
- The applicant’s Reference Number for future communication.
- The scheduled date and time for the Strathmore Entrance Test (tentatively set for Monday, 18th August 2025).
- Follow Up if Necessary: If no confirmation is received within 7 working days, contact the school via email (admissions@strathmore.ac.ke) or phone (+254 703 034 000).
- Submit KJSEA Results: After the KJSEA results are released, email a scanned, verified copy of the result slip to the school for final evaluation.
- Attend the Entrance Test and Interview: Shortlisted candidates will sit for the entrance test and participate in an oral interview to assess their suitability.
- Receive Admission Decision: Successful candidates will receive admission letters following the interview.
Key Deadline
- Application Deadline: Friday, 8th August 2025. Late submissions will not be considered, so applicants are urged to submit early to avoid last-minute issues.
Preparing for the Strathmore Entrance Test
The Strathmore Entrance Test is a critical component of the admission process, evaluating applicants’ proficiency in English and Mathematics. To prepare effectively:
- English: Practice reading comprehension, grammar, and essay writing. Strathmore emphasizes clear communication and critical thinking.
- Mathematics: Focus on topics covered in the CBC Grade 7–9 syllabus, including algebra, geometry, and data handling.
- Mock Tests: Use past papers or sample tests to familiarize yourself with the format and question types.
- Time Management: Practice answering questions under timed conditions to build speed and accuracy.
The oral interview assesses confidence, communication skills, and alignment with Strathmore’s values. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their academic interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing Strathmore.
Financial Aid and Scholarships at Strathmore
Strathmore School is committed to supporting needy and deserving students through financial aid and scholarships. Approximately one-third of its students benefit from financial assistance, ensuring access to quality education regardless of economic background.
Available Financial Aid Options
- Bursary Fund: Donations are used to support students in the year they are received.
- Endowment Fund: Named after donors or in memory of individuals, providing long-term financial support.
- External Scholarships: Strathmore facilitates applications for scholarships like the European Union scholarship for final-year secondary students and the Mathematics Contest scholarship for top performers in national competitions.
- Family Benefit Rebate: Offered to parents with multiple children at Strathmore, based on academic performance.
Why Choose Strathmore School for Grade 10?
Strathmore School stands out as a top choice for Grade 10 education due to its:
- Academic Excellence: Consistently high performance in national examinations, with a 98% university transition rate in recent years.
- Holistic Development: Emphasis on moral integrity, leadership, and community service, rooted in Christian values.
- CBC Alignment: Structured pathways (STEM and Social Sciences) tailored to modern career demands.
- Supportive Environment: Experienced teachers, financial aid, and a focus on student well-being create a conducive learning atmosphere.
- Competitive Edge: Strong performance in subjects like Computer Studies, Mathematics, and French, preparing students for global opportunities.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of admission:
- Start Early: Begin preparing documents and studying for the entrance test well in advance.
- Verify Documents: Ensure all scans are clear and all required information (e.g., NEMIS/UPI, KNEC numbers) is accurate.
- Align with Pathways: Choose subjects that match your KJSEA strengths and career goals.
- Seek Guidance: Consult with teachers or Strathmore’s admissions office for clarification on requirements or pathways.
- Follow Deadlines: Submit applications by 8th August 2025 and KJSEA results promptly after release.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Strathmore School at:
- Email: admissions@strathmore.ac.ke
- Phone: +254 703 034 000
- Physical Address: Mzima Springs Rd, Nairobi, Kenya
- Website: www.strathmore.ac.ke
The admissions team is available to assist with application queries, financial aid, or scheduling entrance tests.
Applying to Strathmore School for Grade 10 is a significant step toward academic and personal growth in a prestigious institution. By understanding the CBC pathways, meeting the admission criteria, and following the application process diligently, prospective students can position themselves for success. Strathmore’s commitment to excellence, financial support, and Christian values makes it an ideal choice for boys aiming to excel in Senior School and beyond. Start preparing today, and take the first step toward joining one of Kenya’s top schools.
