10 Best International Schools to Take Your Child in Nairobi
Nairobi, Kenya’s dynamic capital, is a hub for quality education, attracting families from across the globe with its diverse range of international schools. The city offers top-tier institutions that blend rigorous academics, vibrant extracurriculars, and multicultural environments, making them ideal for both expatriates and locals seeking a global-standard education.
Here’s a curated list of the 10 best international schools in Nairobi to consider for your child, based on reputation, curriculum, facilities, and community feedback.
1. International School of Kenya (ISK)
Why It’s Exceptional: Located on a 40-acre former coffee plantation in Runda, ISK is a standout for its North American and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.
Highlights: With over 1,000 students from 65+ nationalities, it offers a challenging curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities like a 400-meter track and arts center, and a 70% IB Diploma success rate. Graduates often secure spots at top global universities.
Who It’s For: Families seeking a rigorous, inquiry-based education. Fees range from $18,450 (PreK) to $35,370 (Grades 11-12) annually, plus a $10,000 capital levy for new students.
Vibe: Globally focused and future-ready.
Vibe: Globally focused and future-ready.
2. Brookhouse International School
Why It’s Great: This British-curriculum school operates across two campuses (Karen and Runda), offering early years to A-Levels.
Highlights: Known for academic excellence, it’s part of the Inspired global network and features top-notch sports facilities, music programs, and boarding options. It’s a Round Square school, emphasizing leadership and service.
Who It’s For: Parents wanting a well-rounded British education. Fees range from KSh 300,000 to KSh 1.2 million per term.
Vibe: Prestigious and holistic.
Vibe: Prestigious and holistic.
3. Hillcrest International Schools
Why It Stands Out: Nestled in Karen, Hillcrest offers the British National Curriculum from Early Years to A-Levels, with boarding available from age 10.
Highlights: Managed by GEMS Education, it boasts modern dorms, manicured fields, and strong academic results. Its three-tier campus (Early Years, Prep, Secondary) ensures a tailored experience.
Who It’s For: Families valuing structure and tradition. Fees range from KSh 631,800 to KSh 1.3 million annually.
Vibe: Nurturing and disciplined.
Vibe: Nurturing and disciplined.
4. Braeburn School
Why It’s Hot: A co-ed institution in Lavington, Braeburn follows the British curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels) and has a legacy since 1968.
Highlights: With 870 students across its campuses, it excels in arts, sports, and academics. Parents praise its happy, hands-on teaching staff and safe environment.
Who It’s For: Families seeking a balanced, joyful learning space. Fees range from KSh 178,000 to KSh 844,000 per term.
Vibe: Warm and community-driven.
Vibe: Warm and community-driven.
5. Peponi School
Why It’s Unique: Situated in Ruiru, Peponi offers British education with a focus on resilience and global citizenship.
Highlights: Its lush campus supports a strong sports and arts culture, and its pupils often secure places at top UK and Kenyan secondary schools. Boarding is available.
Who It’s For: Parents who prioritize character alongside academics. Fees range from KSh 275,000 to KSh 600,000 per term.
Vibe: Aspirational and supportive.
Who It’s For: Parents who prioritize character alongside academics. Fees range from KSh 275,000 to KSh 600,000 per term.
Vibe: Aspirational and supportive.
6. Kenton College Preparatory School
Why It’s Loved: A Kileleshwa gem since 1924, Kenton caters to ages 6-13 with a British prep curriculum.
Highlights: Set on 35 acres, it emphasizes whole-child development—intellectual, physical, and spiritual. It’s part of the IAPS network, with many alumni earning scholarships to global schools.
Who It’s For: Families seeking a nurturing prep experience. Fees range from KSh 600,000 to KSh 800,000 annually.
Vibe: Classic and caring.
Vibe: Classic and caring.
7. The Banda School
Why It’s Elite: Located in Lang’ata near Nairobi National Park, this British prep school serves ages 1-13.
Highlights: With a 32-acre campus, it fosters creativity and individuality. Students transition to leading secondary schools worldwide, supported by a diverse student body from 34 nationalities.
Who It’s For: Parents wanting a strong foundation. Fees range from KSh 150,000 to KSh 600,000 per term.
Vibe: Open and inspiring.
8. German School Nairobi
Why It’s Distinctive: On Limuru Road, this school follows the German curriculum with IB options, aligned with Thuringia’s syllabus.
Highlights: It offers a bilingual twist (German and English instruction), small classes, and a focus on Kenyan-relevant subjects. Facilities are modern and secure.
Who It’s For: German-speaking families or those seeking European rigor. Fees range from €5,700 to €7,000 annually.
Vibe: Structured and multicultural.
Vibe: Structured and multicultural.
9. Rosslyn Academy
Why It’s Notable: In Gigiri, Rosslyn provides a Christian-based American curriculum from preschool to Grade 12.
Highlights: It’s known for developing God-given talents, with robust arts, sports, and service programs. The campus is green and welcoming, ideal for expats.
Who It’s For: Families valuing faith and flexibility. Fees range from $14,000 to $28,000 annually.
Vibe: Warm and purpose-driven.
Vibe: Warm and purpose-driven.
10. Nairobi International School
Why It’s Rising: Based in Lavington, this Cambridge-curriculum school offers a disciplined yet creative environment.
Highlights: It’s the first East African “E-school” to rethink education, with personalized learning and strong extracurriculars. It’s smaller, fostering close-knit ties.
Who It’s For: Parents seeking innovation and affordability. Fees range from KSh 584,000 to KSh 1.5 million annually.
Vibe: Forward-thinking and intimate.
Vibe: Forward-thinking and intimate.
Final Thoughts
Nairobi’s international schools in 2025 cater to a spectrum of needs—whether you prioritize British tradition (Brookhouse, Hillcrest), American flexibility (ISK, Rosslyn), or European precision (German School).
Fees vary widely, from moderate (Nairobi International) to premium (ISK, Peponi), so consider your budget and your child’s goals. With Nairobi’s notorious traffic, proximity matters—Karen and Runda are serene but farther, while Lavington and Westlands keep you central. Visit these campuses, feel the vibe, and pick the one that sparks joy for your child’s journey. Which school’s calling your family?
Also Read>>>Top 8 Suburbs to Live in Nairobi in 2025
