25 Best Private Primary Schools in Nairobi (2026), Performance, Fees, and Curriculum Guide

Choosing the right private primary schools for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make, as it lays the foundation for a child’s entire educational journey. In Nairobi, where there are more than 225 primary schools, the options are both competitive and highly diverse. Parents must often choose between the national curriculum and prestigious international pathways, while also balancing academic excellence with holistic character development.

Private schools in Nairobi have positioned themselves as academic leaders, frequently outperforming many public institutions in both learning standards and national examination results. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of top-tier schools, categorized by performance, curriculum, and core values, to help parents identify the best fit for their child.

Best Performing Schools for KCPE & CBC

For many families, academic performance remains the most important factor. Several schools in Nairobi consistently demonstrate strong results in national examinations such as the KCPE and show steady progress under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

International Primary Schools in Nairobi

For parents seeking a globally oriented education, Nairobi is home to some of the most prestigious international schools in Africa. These institutions primarily follow the British National Curriculum or the International Baccalaureate (IB), offering students internationally recognized academic pathways.

Braeburn Group of International Schools – Braeburn Primary School

Braeburn Primary School, part of the renowned Braeburn Group of International Schools, is an exceptional private primary school offering a solid foundation for early children’s development. Its mandate is to offer a safe and joyful learning environment for its pupils and promote social responsibility and respect.

Braeburn Group of International Schools co-ed and British/International Curricula cover English, Math, Science, Computing, History, Geography, Physical Education, Music, Swimming, PSHE, Art, Design, and Technology.

This private learning institution stands out for its academic excellence, holistic approach to learning, and high-quality education delivered by its dedicated faculty.

Location: Gitanga Road, Lavington, Nairobi.

Contact: +254 (0) 722 685575 or +254 (0) 733 553480. Email: [email protected].

Nova Pioneer

Nova Pioneer is a new entrant in Kenya’s education sector, having officially launched in 2015. With less than a decade under its belt, the international school (with campuses in South Africa) has already gained veteran status among top-tier primary schools in Kenya, with campuses in Nairobi, Tatu City, Athi River, and Eldoret.

The school’s mission is to nurture innovators who will lead and shape Africa’s future. Guided by six cultural principles, Nova Pioneer believes in fostering a positive way of life through critical thinking, self-discovery, innovation, leadership, and independent learning.

It offers the newly introduced CBC (Competency-based Curriculum) and KCPE (Kenya Certificate of Primary Education), with boarding facilities (separate boys’ and girls’ dormitories), a swimming pool, and playfields.

Location: Ruiru-Kamiti Road, Tatu City, Nairobi

Contact: (+254) 0790491030 / 0724386086. Email: [email protected].

Hillcrest International School

Hillcrest International School is a top-tier private primary school in Nairobi with a strong commitment to academic excellence. The international school was established in 1975 with 54 students and three classrooms. It’s among the early adopters of Cambridge Overseas ‘O’ and ‘A’ level examinations and certification in the region.

Thanks to its track record of high-quality education and a comprehensive curriculum, it boasts a diverse enrolment of international students from around the world.

The founding principles of the private primary school include cooperation, mutual respect, and self-awareness.

Location: Karen and Langata Campuses.

Contact: +254724255444 or +254736256173, Email: [email protected].

Peponi School

When it comes to a rigorous primary educational program, Peponi school is held in high regard. Set on the outskirts of the Nairobi metropolitan area, Peponi offers a diverse community focused on providing a unique and fulfilling journey for its pupils.

Following a British Curriculum (British National Curriculum and Common Entrance Syllabus), the private primary school emphasizes hard work, cooperation, respect, and pastoral excellence with the aim of preparing its pupils for success in a dynamic world.

Location: Kabete, Nairobi.

Contacts:  +(254) 716 639 282, Email: [email protected].

Strathmore School

Strathmore is a leading private primary school in Nairobi with an exceptional academic track record. It constantly ranks among the top-performing schools in the country. The Catholic-run school prepares its students for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education.

Its success consistently places a majority of its candidates in top higher learning institutions in the country, and the world is backed by strictly following a system of Continuous Assessment tests as well as regularly issuing reports to parents.

Strathmore offers an extensive academic profile coupled with a wide variety of extra-curricular activities.

Location: Lavington, Mzima Springs Lane.

Contact: +254722221221, +254718222222, +254733937945. Email: [email protected].

The Banda School

The Banda School is a private primary school located on a 35-acre site near Nairobi National Park. Following the British Curriculum, the school fosters an environment of mutual respect, fun, and commitment to success.

Its lush green environment, set next to the renowned Nairobi National Park, features an expansive landscape and is home to warthogs. Banda School’s dedicated teaching faculty ensures its pupils strive for excellence within the British curricula it follows and in co-curricular activities.

The Banda School caters to a broad range of abilities and consistently succeeds in Common Entrance exams. The school’s 2022 Year 8 cohort achieved an impressive 95% A*–C grades and secured entry to their preferred secondary schools.

Location: Magadi Road, Langata, opposite the Nairobi National Park.

Contact: +254709951000/+254205131100, Email: [email protected].

Riara Group of Schools – Riara Primary School

Established in 1974, the Riara Group of Schools has set exceptional educational standards in the region. Riara Springs Academy, on the other hand, was founded in 2000 and is situated in Imara Daima, off Mombasa Road.

Following the Kenya Certificate for Primary Education and British Curriculum, the private primary school offers a safe and secure environment that fosters a learner’s full potential – identifying and nurturing their talents.

According to the management, Riara Springs Academy (Primary) offers a quality education that equips its pupils for a successful future.  The Riara Group of Schools’ wholesome learning experience includes kindergarten, Primary, Junior, High school, and University.

Location: Imara Daima, Off Mombasa Road, Nairobi.

Contact: (+254) 0703 038 100/200, Email: [email protected].

International School of Kenya

When it comes to culture, quality of care, and opportunities, the International School of Kenya (ISK) Primary School ranks at the top. Backed by a passion for instilling rigorous academic and personal exploration, ISK offers a comprehensive curriculum, modern facilities, and experienced faculty.

The International School of Kenya’s faculty, authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), focuses on developing the whole child, with an emphasis on emotional and social skills.

Its middle school program covers core subjects, and pupils have the privilege of choosing from a variety of Creative Arts courses. The International School of Kenya’s diverse and inclusive community nurtures excellence.

Location: Kirawa Road, Nairobi.

Contact: Middle School: +254 733 639341, Elementary School: +254 733 639340, Email: [email protected]. 

Brookhouse School

Brookhouse School is a private primary school in Nairobi that offers a stimulating learning environment for children ages 3 to 13. The academic faculty at the private institution encourages an inquiry-based learning system that follows a robust British curriculum known to foster academic skills and imagination.

Brookhouses’ comprehensive curriculum includes math, English, Science, Geography, History, Art, Physical Education, Music, Modern Foreign Language, and ICT.

According to the management, its teaching faculty combines independent tasks and teacher-guided group work, promoting active participation in learning among the pupils. Both its campuses in Runda and Karen offer a British curriculum coupled with co-curricular activities.

Location: Magari Road, Karen, Nairobi (Karen Campus), Off Kiambu Road, Runda, Nairobi (Runda Campus).

Contact: Karen Campus – Tel: +254 (0) 722 204 413, Runda Campus – Tel: +254 (0) 704 392 000.

Cavina School

Established in 1950, Cavina School is a top-tier British Preparatory school located along Elgeyo Marakwet Road in Nairobi’s Kilimani area. The wholesome private learning institution consists of a Prep-pre Unit, Junior School, Middle School, and Senior School.

Following the British Curriculum, the private institution emphasizes subjects such as Math, English, French, Science, British History, Geography, Scripture, and Latin.

In addition to academic curricula, the private school offers computer studies, Art, Music, Physical Education, and Performing Arts. With a foundation in Christian values, Cavina School serves pupils aged 2-13 years, fostering holistic development.

Location: Along Elgeyo Marakwet Road, Kilimani, Nairobi.

Contact: (+254-20) 2573630, 0706232334 or 0708387746. Email: [email protected]. 

Faith-Based and Value-Centered Institutions

Many of Nairobi’s top-performing schools are founded on religious principles, offering a structured and disciplined environment that appeals to many parents.

Rosslyn Academy

Rosslyn Academy is a top-tier private Christian school in Nairobi with a dedicated primary school section. The Christian primary school boasts a diverse student population from over 50 countries globally.

Rosslyn’s core focus is to inspire and equip students to develop their gifts, backed by Christian values, globally.

Adopting an American curriculum, Rosslyn Academy Primary School’s approach is marked by its rigorous, creative, and collaborative partnership between the teaching faculty, pupils, and parents. The school aims to offer a holistic, lasting approach to learning.

Location: Parklands/Highridge, Off Limuru Road, Off UNEP Avenue, Past UNEP. Off, Magnolia Cl, Nairobi.

Contact: (+254) 020 8893090, Email: [email protected]. 

St. Christopher’s School

St. Christopher’s is an acclaimed private primary school in Nairobi. It’s ranked among the best thanks to its adoption of the British Curriculum administered by the University of Cambridge Assessment International Education (CIE).

Its curriculum, diverse resources, and dynamic learning experiences ensure its primary school pupils reach their full potential, preparing them for further education globally.

St. Christopher’s track record of consistently achieving excellent results in the internationally recognized Cambridge Checkpoint, IGCSE, A Level, and BTEC examinations makes it a go-to institution for child development.

Location: Ngong Road, Nairobi.

Contact: +254 723 392 957, +254 734 838 333, Email: [email protected].

Nurturing the Whole Child: Extracurriculars and Facilities

Top schools understand that true education goes beyond classroom learning. As a result, facilities and extracurricular programs have become key factors that set institutions apart, supporting students’ development in academics, talents, and life skills.

Mirema School

Established in 1997, Mirema School is a Christian private primary and secondary school in Nairobi, located on Mirema Road, off Thika Road. The private school offers a blend of curricula, including the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education, the recently introduced Competency-based Curriculum (CBC), and the British Curriculum.

Mirema School operates as a mixed-day and boarding Christian school with rigorous academic, diverse co-curricular activities, including off-campus programs and creative arts incentives, among others.

The Christian private school aims to help its pupils discover their unique gifts and talents by fostering a supportive and challenging environment.

Location: Mirema Road, Off Thika Road.

Contact: Tel: 0716 171698, Website: miremaschool.ac.ke.

Aga Khan Academy Parklands

Aga Khan Academy, Parklands, ranks among the top crème of private schools in Nairobi thanks to its comprehensive curriculum offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum that includes the Primary Years Program (PYP), Middle Years Program (MYP), and Diploma Program (DP).

The Parklands-based primary school boasts a diverse student population from around the world. The private primary school promotes an inquiry-based approach from early childhood throughout its stages to senior school.

Some of the facilities Aga Khan Academy offers include a well-equipped library, ICT hubs, swimming pools, Science labs, Sports fields, art rooms, and a Drama and Film Studio.

Location: 1st Parklands Avenue, off Limuru Road, Nairobi.

Contact: (+254) 0 736 380 101.

Bellevue School, South C

Bellevue School, South C, is a Christian private primary school that follows the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education and the recently introduced Competency-based Curriculum (CBC).

Founded on Christian values, the private primary school serves all children regardless of their faith, financial background, or spirituality. Tucked in the tight-knit community of the South C neighborhood, Bellevue School, South C aims to offer quality education centered on the child, parents, and teaching faculty.

Some of the facilities within the school premises include an expansive playfield, a semi-Olympic-sized swimming pool, and a well-stocked library.

Location: Bellevue, South C Neighborhood.

Contact: (+254) 0716 456135, Email: [email protected], Website: bellevueschool.sc.ke.

St. Hannah’s Primary School

Located in the lush neighborhood of Karen, St. Hannah’s Primary School is a private day and boarding school with three campuses in Nairobi: Runda, Karen, and Ngong Road. The private school offers a competency-based curriculum that leads to the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education examination.

Thanks to its rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and integrated programs, St. Hannah’s Primary School is one of Kenya’s top-performing schools. This private primary school has about 435 pupils, including 198 boys and 237 girls, enrolled at any given time.

The school promotes high-quality, child-centered education that enables its pupils to discover their strengths through teacher-guided programs.

Location: Ngong Rd Primary & Junior Secondary School.

Contact: (+254) 020 211 2657, 0728 412285.

Nairobi Academy

Nairobi Academy is a popular private primary school in Nairobi with a welcoming and friendly learning environment. The private learning institution aims to provide its pupils with a quality education that will, in turn, help them transition seamlessly in a dynamic world.

The school follows the British National Curriculum and offers the Cambridge and BTEC curricula.

Nairobi Academy Prep places a lot of emphasis on its students’ diverse talents, ensuring that learning is engaging and enjoyable. The school offers its pupils access to arts, sports, field trips, academic challenges, and other extracurricular activities to promote well-rounded, positive individuals committed to learning and personal growth.

Location: Langata Road, Next to Mamba Village, Karen.

Contacts: (+254) 0722 208365. 0735 338047. Email: [email protected].

Ruaraka Academy

Ruaraka Academy is a private mixed-day primary school nurtured under biblical foundations. It offers a competency-based curriculum that leads to the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education.

Established in 1988, Ruaraka Academy is one of Nairobi and Kenya’s top-performing primary education institutions.

Due to its Christian background, the school is dedicated to developing well-rounded pupils within a caring community while imparting the critical values and skills needed for their future. Ruaraka Academy operates based on strong Christian principles, providing a firm foundation for students as they embark on their educational journey from kindergarten to the primary level.

The private primary school places great importance on providing an excellent and holistic educational structure for all pupils, regardless of their background or ability. In addition to academics, Ruaraka Academy offers a host of co-curricular activities, including music, dance, drama, art, scouting, wildlife, and more.

Location: Thome 1, Behind USIU, off Thika Road.

Contact: (+254) 700 737 522. Email: [email protected].

Comparison Table of Top Private Primary Schools in Nairobi

Note: Please note that while the sources categorize schools by their prestige and performance, specific annual fee figures are generally not provided and are typically available upon request from the respective institutions.

Practical Considerations: Boarding, Location, and Fees

When choosing a school, practical factors such as location, boarding options, and cost often play a decisive role.

Boarding vs. Day: Some institutions, such as St. Scholastica Catholic School and Lily Academy, offer well-established boarding facilities for families who need them. Other schools, including Nairobi Primary, provide both day and boarding options and are recognized among strong-performing public institutions.

Locations: Several key areas in Nairobi have become major school hubs. Karen hosts schools such as Brookhouse, Hillcrest, and The Banda. Westlands is home to institutions like Kianda and ISK, while the Thika Road and Kasarani corridor includes schools such as Mirema, KCA University Academy, and St. Scholastica.

Cost of Excellence: Elite international schools like Hillcrest, Peponi, and ISK are among the most expensive in the city. However, there are also high-performing, more affordable alternatives such as Mirema School and Lakewood School, which offer strong value for money.

 How to Choose the Right Private Primary School

A structured approach can help parents make a more informed decision:

Academic Reputation: Review recent KCPE mean scores or IGCSE/IB results.
Curriculum Alignment: Choose between CBC or 8-4-4 for local progression, or British, American, or IB systems for international pathways.
Values and Culture: Consider whether the school’s religious or cultural ethos aligns with your family’s values.
Facilities: Look for strong infrastructure, including libraries, ICT labs, and sports facilities.
Budget: Ensure the full cost, including hidden and extracurricular fees, fits your long-term financial plan.

Securing Your Child’s Future

Nairobi offers a wide range of world-class primary schools catering to different budgets, faiths, and academic ambitions. Whether it is the innovation-focused approach of Nova Pioneer, the academic rigor of Happyland, or the global outlook of Brookhouse, the most important step is visiting the school and engaging directly with its staff.

Because rankings and performance can change from year to year, parents should always consult the latest reports and attend open days for up-to-date insights. With careful research and planning, you can make a decision that sets a strong foundation for your child’s future success.

About The Author 

Mercy Atieno is a Kenyan travel and lifestyle writer passionate about storytelling, culture, and exploration. With over five years of experience in travel writing, she creates engaging content that highlights destinations, entertainment spots, and unique travel experiences across Africa. Mercy studied Journalism at the Kenya School of Mass Communication, where she earned a diploma that strengthened her research and storytelling skills.

She contributes informative, travel, and lifestyle content to Reach The Dodo, focusing on guides for cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi. Her writing blends practical travel advice with vivid narratives inspired by nature, culture, and local traditions. Mercy dreams of traveling the world full-time while embracing an off-grid lifestyle and sharing authentic experiences that inspire readers to explore and appreciate diverse cultures.

Mercy can be contacted through her X account.