Like any other big city in the world, choosing the best private High school for your teen in Nairobi can be a daunting task. Fortunately for you, we are your compass through this jungle expedition.
The following list of Private schools in Nairobi offers unique teaching methods, including Kenyan and international curricula, impressive recourses, and state-of-the-art classrooms and sporting facilities.
In no particular order, these are the best private high schools you can find in Nairobi, Kenya.
Read Also: Best Kindergarten and Montessori Schools in Nairobi
Light Academy
Nestled in the swanky suburbs of Karen, Nairobi. Light Academy is a premier high school choice for exceptional education for your budding teen. Celebrated for its academic prowess, this Nairobi private school has a reputation for consistently nurturing students to excel academically, socially, and culturally. With a track record of consistently outshining its competition in KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) since 2016 – it’s the perfect pick for parents looking to improve their teen’s academic performance.
However, Light Academy, Karen isn’t just about stuffing academia. Other than leading in national education, Light Academy takes a holistic learning approach by hosting the East African Round of the World Scholar’s Cup and also championing the Environmental Climate International Project Olympiad (the largest in East and Central Africa).
That’s not all. Light Academy has also been awarded by TSC (Teacher’s Service Commission) as the Best Private School in Kenya for its outstanding academic faculty. If you are looking to enroll in this award-winning Nairobi private school, the annual tuition fee is approximately KES 150,000.
Location: Off Silanga Road, Karen, Nairobi.
Contact: Email at info@lightacademy.ac.ke or info.mba@lightacademy.ac.ke.
Brookhouse School
Brookhouse is a leading international private school in Nairobi, Kenya. With campuses in the lush neighborhoods of Karen and Runda, this esteemed international institution is a shining star for academic excellence for your child in Nairobi. Offering a unique blend of Kenyan and British curricula, Brookhouse School perfectly complements the professional, business, and diplomatic community in its campus periphery.
Both its Runda and Karen campuses feature small classes, dedicated teaching faculty, and well-rounded learning programs that include academics, sports, and cultural activities. Brookhouse’s mission is to prepare students for a rapidly changing world while making education relevant and memorable.
Location: Magari Road, Karen Nairobi (Karen Campus), Off Kiambu Road, Runda, Nairobi (Runda, Campus).
Contact: Brookhouse Karen (+254) 0722 204 413, Brookhouse Runda (+254) 0704 392 000.
Makini Schools
Initially called Riara Gardens Academy in 1978, Makini Schools is a trailblazer in contemporary education. Their approach to their student’s education is beyond traditional teaching methods – instead, they focus their strengths on nurturing well-rounded teens who can strive in today’s dynamic world. Maini School offers Kenyan and Cambridge Curricula, embracing global best learning practices and prioritizing a holistic, child-centered approach.
The world-acclaimed Cambridge curriculum fosters 21st-century competencies, empowering learners to become confident, creative, and innovative leaders. Subjects include English, Mathematics, and Science from the Cambridge curriculum, while other subjects follow the English National Curriculum. Makini School’s vision is to merge the Kenyan curriculum with global best practices, shaping academically excellent, workforce-ready, and confident individuals.
Location: Makindi Road, Nairobi.
Contact: (+254 ) 020 3877138, 020 3871874, (+254) 748 651 791, 020 3873348. Email: accounts@makinischool.com.
Read Also: Best Private Primary Schools in Mombasa
International School of Kenya (ISK)
International School of Kenya, better known as ISK, is renowned for offering an American-style curriculum. With an unwavering commitment to quality and personal growth, the International School of Kenya promotes academic excellence and encourages its students to pursue personal passions. Students are identified, supported, and empowered to tailor their learning journey.
ISK is internationally recognized and fully accredited by the Council of International Schools and the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges. Additionally, the private learning institution is authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to offer the Diploma Program. ISK is a leading private high school in Nairobi because it ensures its students meet the highest global educational standards, preparing them to be future problem solvers.
Location: Kirawa Road, Nairobi.
Contact: The High School can be reached at +254 733 639342, the Middle School at +254 733 639341, and the Elementary School at +254 733 639340. The email is communications@isk.ac.ke.
Strathmore School
Strathmore, fondly known as “Strath,” is an independent private boys’ day school in Nairobi, Kenya, that fosters the Kenyan curriculum. Starting out as a 6th-form college back in 1961, it has transformed into the distinguished institution it is today. Catering for about 630 students, with a majority benefiting from financial aid, Strathmore is a powerhouse regarding academic excellence and discipline, consistently ranking among the 100 best-performing high schools in Kenya’s KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education). Besides academics, the Catholic all-boys day school is a rugby champion on the field. With a remarkable 90% university transition rate, the school boosts an impressive list of alumni who are the current movers and shakers in Kenya. Strathmore School’s tuition fee is approximately Ksh 250,000 per year.
Location: Mzima Springs Lane, Lavington, Nairobi.
Contact: +254722221221, +254718222222, +254733937945. Email: info@strathmore.ac.ke.
Hillcrest International School
Hillcrest International School is ranked among the best private schools in Nairobi for its diverse and inclusive environment that promotes unity and global awareness among its students. Committed to nurturing socially responsible citizens, the private institution follows a British Curriculum, earning recognition for its academic excellence. Established in 1975, Hillcrest International School was among the pioneer institutions in Kenya offering Cambridge Overseas ‘O’ and ‘A’ level education and examinations. According to the institution’s management, the private school’s success is a collective effort that involves the students, faculty, and parents. Whether you are a Kenyan citizen or expatriate looking for quality private education in Nairobi city, Hillcrest International School offers academic excellence and an inclusive setting for your budding teen.
Location: Hillcrest Road, Off Langata Road, Nairobi
Contact: +254 (0) 710 600 359, +254 (0) 724-256 173 or Email: admin@hillcrest.ac.ke.
Consolata School
Guided by the Roman Catholic Church, Consolata School is a premier private school in Nairobi dedicated to value-based education since 1967. For over five decades, the mixed-day private high school has nurtured its students with values like kindness, patience, goodness, integrity, and humility. The learning program at Consolata School is firmly rooted in Catholic church ethics, fostering all-rounded individuals with not just education but strong Christian values.
The co-ed Catholic constantly ranks at the top in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education examinations (KCSE) and offers a wide range of co-curricular activities, promoting holistic development, personality, and leadership traits in their students. Consolata School is a regional champion on the field, producing top swimmers in the country yearly. The yearly tuition fee at Consolata School is approximately KES 150,000.
Location: Westlands – Chiromo Road Next to Consolata Shrine, Nairobi.
Contact: (+254) 020-4442634, 020-2523945, 0739499013. Email: info@consolataschool.org. Website: www.consolataschool.org.
St. Andrews Turi
When it comes to the best private schools in Nairobi, St. Andrews, Turi, holds the emblem of academic excellence and a vibrant co-curricular culture. Embracing the British learning curriculum, this private school caters to more than 500 boarding students with a preparatory and senior school on its property.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley (200km away from Nairobi), the private learning institution’s idyllic location enhances the learning experience. Established in the 1930s, St. Andrews, Turi, currently ranks among the top international boarding schools in the region, blending its academic programs with patrol care and outdoor activities.
With a vast 450-acre campus boasting modern, state-of-the-art facilities, sports fields, nature trails, and more, St. Andrews, Turi, transcends traditional education. For its students aged between 5 and 13, it follows England’s National Curriculum, including common entrance exams, offering co-ed day and boarding options. As the students progress, many continue to the senior school on campus or pursue their educational journey in the United Kingdom (UK) or other African senior schools.
Location: Molo, Kenya (200 Kilometers/ 124 Miles from Nairobi).
Contact: +254 (0)722 209750.
Read Also: Best Private Primary Schools In Nakuru City
St. Mary’s School
St. Mary’s School, better known as “Saints,” is a distinguished private boys’ day high school run by the Catholic church in Nairobi. The private institution gets credit for its holistic approach to education, offering academic, spiritual, and physical development for its students. Enrolled students at “Saints” embody qualities including principled behavior, discipline, communication, open-mindedness, innovation, and compassion. The private Catholic high school excels in Math, rugby, charity work, drama, and music. The School offers Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), IGCSE, and IBDP Certifications. On the field, St. Mary’s Nairobi is renowned for its prevalence in rugby and swimming. Notable alumni include former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, Hollywood actor Lupita Nyong’o, and celebrated journalist Jeff Koinange. The annual tuition fee for St. Mary’s Nairobi is approximately KES 180,000.
Location: Off James Gichuru Road, Nairobi.
Contact: +254-721-490140 / +254-020-4444569, Website: https://stmarys.ac.ke/.
Peponi School (Ruiru)
Peponi Schools is a family of three schools that, for more than three decades, have been nurturing excellence and complete child development from ages 13 to 18 years. With a background of spiritual principles, Peponi Secondary (Ruiru, Kenya) empowers children with a sense of wonder, curiosity, and global perspective. According to the esteemed learning institution, its forward-thinking approach, high expectations, and self-discovery commitments prepare students for personal ambitions.
The co-ed day and boarding Christian school following the British Curriculum caters to learners between the ages of 13 and 18, boasting a diverse student population from over 35 nationalities. The private institution readies its learners for the competitive world thanks to its top-tier learning facilities, devoted faculty, and rich values. The private secondary high school boasts excellent extracurricular drama and music activities.
Location: Ruiru, Kenya
Contact: +(254) 716 639 282 or Email: info@peponischool.org.
The German School Nairobi
The German School, Nairobi, is a unique learning institution offering secondary education for both boys and girls. The private learning facility follows the KMK curriculum approved by Germany. Since most subjects are offered in German, English plays a critical role, particularly in subjects like History and Geography.
Set in a tranquil, spacious green environment, the private high school is a close-knit community that warmly welcomes newcomers and embraces student togetherness. According to the school’s management, students from more than 32 nationalities converge at its learning facilities. The German School Nairobi aligns with KMK standards and emphasizes English and French.
Location: Along Limuru Road, Gigiri (across from Village Market).
Contact: +254 (0)721-25 84 17, +254 (0)733-44 56 85. Email: principal@germanschool.co.ke, info@germanschool.co.ke.
Kianda School
Kianda School was established in 1977 and, to date, is respected as one of Nairobi’s top high schools that not only excel academically but also emphasizes strong, harmonious partnerships among students, faculty, and parents. Located in Nairobi’s Westlands area, the all-girls day school runs under a strong Catholic ethos and is often referred to as Strathmore’s “sister” school.
Kianda is a powerhouse regarding academic performance thanks to its impressive academic achievements and exceptional learning facilities. Nearly all its candidates consistently merit university education – a testament to its academic track record and commitment.
Kianda School is an ideal choice for students with a passion for music, thanks to its award-winning choir program. Distinguished alumnae include Valerie Kimani, Carol Mandi, Lyra Aoko, Rachael Kiragu, Maureen Kunga, and Margaret Kenyatta. The all-girls Catholic high school’s annual tuition fee is approximately KES 180,000.
Location: Kabarsiran Ave, Westlands, Nairobi.
Contact: +254-20-8077381, Mobile: 0721547572 / 0733846959. Email: info@kiandaschool.ac.ke.
Braeburn Group of International Schools
Regarding quality, tailor-cut private school education, Braeburn Group of International Schools ranks at the top. Thanks to its co-educational setting and British/International curricula, this private school sets itself apart from the rest. With campuses both in Kenya and neighboring Tanzania, its core values are set on celebrating diversity and fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for the personal growth of its students. With a focus on the student, teaching faculty, and parents, Braeburn aims to create an ideal learning environment that emphasizes strong communication between the triangle of stakeholders. Due to its popularity in offering packaged quality education, the Braeburn Group of International Schools brand has satellite campuses in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nanyuki, and more, striving to provide accessible and quality education.
Location: Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nanyuki.
Contact: +254 (0)730 881000. Email: enquiries@braeburn.ac.ke.
Read Also: Best Private Primary Schools in Nairobi
Light International School
Light International School, a.k.a LIS, is a shining star in top-tier private high school education in Nairobi and Kenya as a region. Following an advanced British curriculum, Light International School has campuses in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi. Other than offering world-class education to its students, LIS also endeavors to nurture socially responsible and culturally sensitive individuals, instilling values of charity, empathy, and responsibility.
Light International School students are actively involved in community service, learning the importance of giving, from engaging in tree planting to occasional visits to orphanages. LIS offers a holistic educational experience to its students with a variety of clubs and activities, including robotics, digital arts, sports, and more.
Location: Campuses in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Malindi.
Contact: +254 703 200 002 or Email: info@lis.sc.ke.
Riara Group of Schools
The Riara Group of Schools is a distinguished name in private education stakeholder circles in Kenya. The private learning institution offers programs from Kindergarten to University. Their motto, “Striving for excellence,” reflects their commitment to quality education, offering Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education and British Curriculum high school diplomas.
The Riara Girls’ High School in Imara Daima is an all-girls boarding school that emphasizes holistic development, self-reliance, self-confidence, and independence. Embracing diversity, the Riara Group of Schools offers Mandarin language programs in collaboration with the Confucius Institute of Nairobi.
Location: Riara Road, Off Ngong Road. Riara Girls’ High School, Imara Daima neighborhood.
Contact: +(254) 020-3874409, 3871923. Email: riara@africaonline.co.ke.
Banda School
Banda School offers a unique learning experience on its expansive 35-acre site adjacent to the world-famous Nairobi National Park. Thanks to its location, out of the hassle and bustle of Nairobi city, its students are treated to clear skies, fresh air, and the occasional visits from friendly wildlife neighbors like the warthogs and curious antelopes that have been part of the school’s landscape since inception.
The private senior school follows a British Curriculum known for its holistic approach to education, valuing subject knowledge and thinking skills, creativity, and inquiry-based learning. Banda School’s consistent success at the Common Entrance examination is a reflection of its dedicated teaching staff, motivated students, and supportive parents.
In 2022, the Year 8 cohort achieved an impressive 96% A* – C grades in their final Common Entrance Exams, with 19 scholarships earned for schools within Kenya and the UK.
Location: Magadi Road, Langata, opposite the Nairobi National Park.
Contact: +254709951000 / +254205131100 or Email: office@bandaschool.com.
The Aga Khan Academy, Nairobi
The Aga Khan Academy, Nairobi, is a renowned private education institution known for its high standards of education and offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Established in 1961, It is a multi-national co-ed day private secondary school in Nairobi, along Waiyaki Way.
The school is celebrated for its commitment to robust academic teaching and state-of-the-art facilities. According to management, the institution strives to empower its students to excel in national and international settings, incorporating contemporary educational leadership and philosophies. The private learning institution’s strong ethos emphasizes values, spirituality, achievement, ethics, community service, and active participation in sports and culture.
The school is celebrated for its commitment to robust academic teaching and state-of-the-art facilities.
The Aga Khan Private High School, Nairobi, offers KCSE, IGCSE, and GCE curricula. It focuses on academic excellence, exceptional teaching facilities, and a vibrant extracurricular program.
Location: Along Waiyaki Way, Westlands Nairobi
Contacts: (+254) 020-4445812, 4442607, 020-4442799, 020-4442855. Website: