10 Best International Schools Along Thika Road: Comprehensive Guide
Thika Road, one of Nairobi’s most strategic corridors, is home to some of Kenya’s most prestigious international schools. Parents seeking quality education with globally recognized curricula have excellent options along this route. This comprehensive guide evaluates the 10 best international schools along Thika Road, providing detailed information on location, contact details, fees, curriculum, and distinctive features to help you make an informed decision about your child’s education.
Table of Contents
Overview of International Schools Along Thika Road
International schools along Thika Road offer diverse curricula including the British National Curriculum, Cambridge International System, and Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). These institutions cater to students from early childhood through secondary school (Year 13/A-Levels), with many offering both day and boarding options.
The 10 Best International Schools Along Thika Road
1. Braeside Thika (Braeburn Group)
Location: Mang’u Road, Exit 16A off Thika Highway, Thika (approximately 30km from Nairobi)
Contact Details:
- Phone: +254 721 374858 / +254 733 497988
- Email: enquiries.thika@braeside.ac.ke
- Website: braesideth.braeburn.com
- P.O. Box 750, 00100 Thika, Kenya
Curriculum: British National Curriculum (England and Wales), leading to IGCSE and A-Levels
Age Range: Pre-Crèche to Year 13 (Age 3-18)
| Year Group | Annual Tuition (KSh) | Lunch Fee (Annual) | Transport (Annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Crèche | 113,100 | 90,600 | 132,000-272,400 |
| Play Group | 255,000 | 90,600 | 132,000-272,400 |
| FS1 & FS2 | 472,800-911,099 | 90,600-113,400 | 132,000-272,400 |
| Year 1-2 | 611,699 | 90,600 | 132,000-272,400 |
| Year 7-8 | 1,199,999 | 113,400 | 132,000-272,400 |
| Year 13 | 1,411,200 | 105,900 | 132,000-272,400 |
Boarding Option: Full boarding for Year 3 and above (KSh 745,500-828,899 annually)
Why Choose Braeside Thika:
- Member of the prestigious Braeburn Group with 50+ years of educational excellence
- State-of-the-art facilities on a scenic campus
- Personalized learning approach for gifted and talented pupils
- Strong boarding program with weekend recreational activities (paintballing, GO-Karting, hiking, water sports)
- Comprehensive support for pupils transitioning between educational systems
- Qualified, dedicated teaching staff with high expectations
- Active parent community through FABT (Friends at Braeside Thika)
Best For: Families seeking premium British education with strong boarding facilities and a well-established international school network
2. Mahanaim International School (MIHS)
Location: Off Thika Road, Behind Safari Park Hotel, Next to USIU (Kasarani)
Contact Details:
- Phone: +254 710 111 333
- Email: info@mihs.ac.ke
- Website: mihs.ac.ke
- P.O. Box 57329-00200 Nairobi
Curriculum: Cambridge International Curriculum (from Early Years to A-Levels)
| Year | Term 1 (KSh) | Term 2 (KSh) | Term 3 (KSh) | Annual (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creche | 77,000 | 70,000 | 70,000 | 217,000 |
| FS1 | 88,000 | 81,000 | 81,000 | 250,000 |
| FS2 | 98,000 | 91,000 | 91,000 | 280,000 |
| Year 1-2 | 117,000 | 109,000 | 109,000 | 335,000 |
| Year 3-4 | 127,000 | 120,000 | 120,000 | 367,000 |
| Year 5-6 | 138,000 | 131,000 | 131,000 | 400,000 |
| Year 7-8 | 178,000 | 171,000 | 171,000 | 520,000 |
| Year 9 | 201,000 | 193,000 | 193,000 | 587,000 |
| Year 10 | 204,000 | 197,000 | 197,000 | 598,000 |
| Year 11 | 299,000 | 299,000 | Nil | 598,000 |
| Year 12-13 | 389,000 | 389,000 | Nil | 778,000 |
- Registration: KSh 20,000 (non-refundable)
- Admission: KSh 5,000
- Caution Money: KSh 15,000 (refundable)
- Uniform & T-shirt: KSh 26,200
Why Choose Mahanaim International School:
- Christian-based education with strong character building emphasis
- Small class sizes (maximum 15 students) for personalized attention
- Cambridge curriculum recognized globally for university admission
- Holistic development combining academics, faith, and values
- Hands-on learning and laboratory-based science education
- Sports and recreational programs integrated into school culture
- Individual attention tailored to student needs
- Strong academic foundation preparing for IGCSE and A-Levels
Best For: Christian families prioritizing character development alongside academic excellence, with preference for Cambridge curriculum
3. Westridge School
Location: Thika Greens, Kandara Road (approximately 10km from Thika Town), Thika
Contact Details:
- Phone: +254 794 896 996 / +254 111 888 555
- Email: westridgesch@gmail.com / info@westridgeschool.co.ke
- P.O. Box 2175-01000 Thika
- Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm
Curriculum: Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and IGCSE System
Age Range: Kindergarten to Senior School (Grade 9)
| Level | Day Fees Per Term (KSh) | Boarding Fees Per Term (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Playgroup-PP2 | 40,000-45,000 | N/A |
| Grade 1-3 | 70,000 | N/A |
| Grade 4-5 | 75,000-85,000 | 100,000 |
| Grade 6-9 | 85,000-95,000 | 105,000 |
- Registration/Admission: KSh 10,000
- Medical Fee: KSh 5,000 (annual)
- Caution Fee: KSh 10,000 (refundable)
Co-curricular Activities (charged separately):
- Karate, Ballet, Taekwondo, Skating, Junior Golf, Chess
Why Choose Westridge School:
- Serene Thika Greens location with modern facilities
- Both CBC and IGCSE curricula for flexible educational pathways
- Meals fully included in tuition fees
- 5% sibling discount in lower class
- Strong co-curricular program supporting talent development
- Boarding option for upper grades with structured programs
- Affordable pricing compared to premium international schools
- Holistic development approach
- Christian values integrated into school culture
Best For: Budget-conscious families wanting international education with CBC/IGCSE options and reasonable boarding facilities
4. Thika Road Academy
Location: Kahawa Sukari Estate, Opposite Kenyatta University, Thika
Contact Details:
- Phone: +254 714 959 862
- Email: enquiries@thikaroadacademy.sc.ke
- Accounts: accounts@thikaroadacademy.sc.ke
- Website: thikaroadacademy.sc.ke
- P.O. Box 65772-00607 Nairobi
Curriculum: Kenya National Curriculum (Competency-Based Curriculum)
Age Range: Playgroup/PP1/PP2 to Grade 9
| Class | Tuition Fees Per Term (KSh) | Optional Tea Break (KSh) | Optional Lunch (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playgroup-PP2 | 55,000 | 11,000 | 26,500 |
| Grade 1-3 | 55,500 | 11,000 | 26,500 |
| Grade 4-6 | 58,500 | 11,000 | 26,500 |
| Grade 7-9 | 76,000 | 11,000 | 26,500 |
- Admission: KSh 18,000
- Swimming: Included in tuition
- Computer lessons included
- Swimming lessons included
- Transport (Optional): KSh 15,000-20,000 per term
Why Choose Thika Road Academy:
- Tree-lined, serene environment conducive to learning
- Consistently excellent national examination performance
- Swimming and computer lessons included in fees
- Affordable pricing
- Both day and boarding options (Grade 4-8 boarding available)
- Located directly opposite Kenyatta University for convenient access
- Well-established since 1991 with 30+ years of excellence
- Strong academic foundation with national curriculum
- Comprehensive school environment with diverse facilities
Best For: Budget-conscious families seeking affordable education with included special programs (swimming and computing) and good national performance
5. Mountain View School
Location: USIU Road, Nairobi (near USIU campus)
Contact Details:
- Phone: +254 721 592 985 / +254 758 576 593
- Email: mountainview85@gmail.com
- P.O. Box 65023-00618 Nairobi
Curriculum: 8-4-4 System and Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC)
Age Range: Age 3-15 (Kindergarten to Junior Secondary)
Fee Structure: Affordable pricing with flexible options
Co-curricular Activities Available:
- Taekwondo
- Swimming
- Band activity
- Dancing
- Computer skills
- Scouting
- Sports and athletics
Why Choose Mountain View School:
- Christian foundation established in 1985 with full accreditation
- Individualized learning tailored to student needs
- Fully owned and managed school premises ensuring stability
- Holistic individual development approach
- Diverse co-curricular activities developed to professional levels
- Day and boarding options available
- Welcoming of all faiths and denominations despite Christian foundation
- Government-approved curricula (8-4-4 and CBC)
- Mobile app (Mzizi ERP) for parent tracking of academics and fees
- Strong community relationships and open-door parent policy
Best For: Christian families valuing holistic education with diverse co-curricular opportunities and individualized attention
6. Thika Road Christian School
Contact Details:
Curriculum: Holistic Christian Curriculum integrated with academics
Age Range: Kindergarten to Grade 8
| Level | Tuition Per Term (KSh) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Headstart (3 years) | 10,500 | Snacks |
| PP1 (4 years) | 13,500 | Snacks |
| PP2 | 13,500 | Snacks |
| Grades 1-4 | 24,500 | Textbooks, exercise books, swimming, computer, lunch, French |
| Grades 5-8 | 26,500 | Textbooks, exercise books, swimming, computer, lunch, French |
Transportation: Round Trip KSh 12,000 / Return Only KSh 6,000
Why Choose Thika Road Christian School:
- Longest-running institution on list (founded 1978/1985)
- Most affordable international option (starting from KSh 10,500 per term)
- Comprehensive fee structure with many inclusions
- Strong Christian values integrated throughout curriculum
- Founded by Baptist Church, providing spiritual foundation
- All-inclusive pricing model reducing parent expenditure
- Suitable for families prioritizing affordability without compromising quality
Best For: Budget-conscious families seeking affordable Christian education with comprehensive fee inclusions
7. Sukari Presbyterian Academy
Location: Kahawa Sukari Estate, Kericho Road, 5th North Avenue
Contact Details:
- Phone: +254 738 274 343
- Email: sukaripresbyterian@yahoo.com
- Office Hours: 8:00am-5:00pm (Monday-Friday)
Curriculum: Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC)
Age Range: Kindergarten to Junior High
Fee Structure: Affordable pricing
Why Choose Sukari Presbyterian Academy:
- Christian-based education under PCEA church management
- Non-discriminatory admission policy accepting all denominations
- Affordable, community-focused education
- Strong spiritual and academic emphasis
- Serves 10km radius around Kahawa, Ruiru, and Kiambu County
- Focus on both academic excellence and spiritual growth
- Diverse activities: games, sports, music, drama, computer classes
- Transport services for distant students
- Well-established community presence
Best For: Christian families seeking affordable, values-based education within Kahawa Sukari and surrounding communities
8. Hilcrest International School (Braeburn Group)
Location: Langata Road, Karen, Nairobi
Contact Details:
- Preparatory School: +254 730 881 552
- Secondary School: +254 730 881 192
- Email: adminprep@hillcrest.ac.ke / admin@hillcrest.ac.ke
- P.O. Box 24819-00502 Karen
Curriculum: British National Curriculum
Age Range: 18 months to 18 years
| Year Group | Annual Tuition (KSh) | Annual Lunch (KSh) | Annual Transport (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playgroup (Mornings) | 384,000 | – | 168,600-303,600 |
| Nursery (Full Day) | 946,199 | – | 168,600-303,600 |
| FS1 (Full Day) | 1,022,998 | – | 168,600-303,600 |
| Year 2 | 1,897,200 | – | 168,600-303,600 |
| Year 7-8 | 2,574,900 | – | 168,600-303,600 |
| Year 12-13 | 3,083,099 | 133,500 | 168,600-303,600 |
Boarding Option: Full and Weekly boarding available (KSh 1,074,600-681,898 annually for Year 7+)
Why Choose Hilcrest International School:
- Premium Braeburn Group school with 50+ years excellence (established 1975)
- 14-hectare campus providing expansive learning environment
- British National Curriculum leading to IGCSE and A-Levels
- World-class facilities supporting comprehensive education
- State-of-the-art campus in affluent Karen neighborhood
- Strong academic tradition with consistent high achievement
- Holistic development across four educational sections
- Access to Braeburn network of international schools
Best For: Premium families seeking top-tier British education with expansive campus facilities and established international credentials
9. Brookhouse School
Location: Karen and Runda, Nairobi
Contact Details:
Curriculum: British National Curriculum leading to IGCSE and A-Levels
| Year Group | Term Tuition (KSh) | Boarding (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Little Brookies Stage 1 | 145,000 | N/A |
| Reception | 365,000 | N/A |
| Year 1 | 440,000 | N/A |
| Year 5 | 775,000 | 1,330,000 |
| Year 11 (Semester) | 1,410,000 | 2,242,500 |
| Year 13 (Term) | 1,440,000 | 2,272,500 |
Why Choose Brookhouse School:
- Established pioneer of international education (1981)
- No. 1 British Curriculum school in East Africa
- Two premium campuses in Karen and Runda
- Students from 35+ different nationalities
- Best IGCSE and A-Level results in East Africa for over a decade
- Personalized teaching approach for individual development
- Premium boarding school provision at Karen campus
- Strong value system unlocking full student potential
- Internationally recognized education quality
Best For: Affluent families seeking premier international education with proven track record and premium boarding facilities
10. Woodland Star International School
Location: Tigoni (Tea fields, outskirts of Nairobi)
Contact Details:
- Website: woodlandstarkenya.com
- Contact via website for phone and email details
Curriculum: Progressive International Curriculum with environmental focus
Age Range: Early Years to Senior
Fee Structure: Premium pricing
Why Choose Woodland Star International School:
- Progressive, avant-garde educational approach
- Strong environmental conservation focus
- Unique location in emerald tea fields providing natural learning environment
- Values: passion, innovation, connectedness, respect, environmental conservation
- Holistic experience combining exploration of identity with academics
- Inclusive innovation supporting learners with diverse needs
- Extensive facilities including forest learning spaces
- Virtual tour available for prospective parents
- Differentiated design supporting diverse learning styles
Best For: Environmentally-conscious families seeking progressive education with unique outdoor learning environment and holistic approach
Affordability Categories and Comparison
Based on annual costs, here are international schools along Thika Road categorized by affordability:
- Budget-Friendly (KSh 30,000-100,000 per term)
- Thika Road Christian School – KSh 10,500-26,500 per term
- Sukari Presbyterian Academy – Affordable pricing
- Mountain View School – Affordable pricing
- Thika Road Academy – KSh 45,000-76,000 per term
- Westridge School – KSh 40,000-95,000 per term
Annual Cost Estimate: KSh 135,000-285,000 (USD 1,000-2,100)
- Mid-Range (KSh 100,000-300,000 per term)
- Mahanaim International School – KSh 70,000-389,000 per term
- Braeside Thika – KSh 113,100-1,896,300 annually
Annual Cost Estimate: KSh 210,000-570,000 (USD 1,550-4,200)
- Premium (KSh 200,000+ per term)
- Hilcrest International School – KSh 384,000-3,083,099 annually
- Brookhouse School – KSh 145,000-1,440,000 per term
- Woodland Star International School – Premium pricing
Annual Cost Estimate: KSh 435,000-3,083,099+ (USD 3,200-22,750+)
Key Decision-Making Factors for Parents
1. Curriculum Selection
British National Curriculum (Braeside Thika, Hilcrest, Brookhouse):
- Leads to IGCSE and A-Levels
- Internationally recognized qualifications
- Preferred for universities worldwide
- Emphasis on critical thinking and independent learning
Cambridge International Curriculum (Mahanaim):
- Global recognition and portability
- Strong university admission pathway
- Character development integrated with academics
- Suitable for globally mobile families
Competency-Based Curriculum (Westridge, Thika Road Academy, Mountain View, Sukari):
- Aligned with Kenya national standards
- Focus on practical skills development
- Increasingly recognized internationally
- Good bridge to local and international universities
Progressive Curriculum (Woodland Star):
- Focus on holistic development
- Environmental and social responsibility emphasis
- Individualized learning paths
- Ideal for students needing flexible approaches
2. Class Size and Individual Attention
- Mahanaim International School: Maximum 15 students per class (exceptional personalization)
- Braeside Thika: Personalized learning for gifted and talented pupils with support for individual learning needs
- Hilcrest, Brookhouse: Balanced class sizes with strong pastoral care
- Budget schools: Often larger classes but community-oriented approach
3. Facilities and Infrastructure
Premium Facilities:
- Hilcrest: 14-hectare campus with world-class facilities
- Braeside Thika: State-of-the-art buildings with modern amenities
- Brookhouse: Two premium campuses with comprehensive resources
Good Facilities:
- Westridge: Modern facilities, computer and science laboratories
- Mahanaim: Hands-on laboratory-based learning spaces
- Thika Road Academy: Tree-lined serene environment
4. Co-curricular Programs
Comprehensive Programs:
- Braeside Thika: Weekend boarding activities (paintballing, GO-Karting, water sports)
- Mountain View School: Taekwondo, swimming, band, dancing, scouting, sports
- Westridge School: Multiple clubs and talent development
- Brookhouse/Hilcrest: Extensive international-standard programs
Specialized Focus:
- Woodland Star: Environmental conservation focus
- Mahanaim: Character building with life skills programs
- Thika Road Christian School: Integrated Christian activities
5. Boarding Options
Full Boarding Available:
- Braeside Thika: Full and weekly boarding with supervised activities
- Hilcrest: Full and weekly boarding in Karen campus
- Brookhouse: Boarding available at Karen campus
- Westridge, Mountain View, Thika Road Academy: Boarding for upper grades
Day School Only:
- Mahanaim International School
- Thika Road Christian School
- Sukari Presbyterian Academy
- Woodland Star
6. Religious/Values Foundation
Christian-Based:
- Mahanaim International School: Cambridge + character building
- Mountain View School: Christian foundation with inclusive approach
- Thika Road Christian School: Baptist church foundation
- Sukari Presbyterian Academy: PCEA church management
Non-Sectarian/Progressive:
- Braeside Thika, Hilcrest, Brookhouse: Inclusive, value-based
- Woodland Star: Environmental and social values emphasis
7. Location and Accessibility
Central Thika Road Locations (Easy Access):
- Mahanaim International School: Next to USIU
- Mountain View School: USIU Road
- Westridge School: 10km from Thika Town
- Braeside Thika: Exit 16A off Thika Highway
Satellite Locations:
- Hilcrest: Karen (15-20km from city center)
- Brookhouse: Karen/Runda (15-20km from city center)
- Woodland Star: Tigoni (30+ km from city center)
8. Academic Performance Track Record
Strong Track Record:
- Brookhouse School: Best IGCSE and A-Level results in East Africa for 10+ years
- Hilcrest (Braeburn Group): Consistent high-achieving school
- Braeside Thika: Member of Braeburn network with strong reputation
- Thika Road Academy: Mean score of 321 in national examinations
Recommended Schools by Parent Profile
For Budget-Conscious Families (KSh 135,000-285,000/year):
- Thika Road Christian School – Most affordable with comprehensive inclusions
- Thika Road Academy – National curriculum with included programs
- Westridge School – CBC/IGCSE options with modern facilities
For Quality Without Premium Pricing (KSh 210,000-570,000/year):
- Mahanaim International School – Cambridge curriculum with character building
- Mountain View School – Holistic approach with affordable pricing
- Sukari Presbyterian Academy – Values-based affordable education
For Premium British Education (KSh 435,000-3,083,099/year):
- Hilcrest International School – 14-hectare campus with world-class facilities
- Braeside Thika – Established Braeburn school with strong reputation
- Brookhouse School – No. 1 British curriculum school in East Africa
For Progressive/Environmental Focus:
- Woodland Star International School – Unique progressive curriculum with environmental emphasis
For Christian Values Education:
- Mahanaim International School – Cambridge + character building (mid-range)
- Mountain View School – Christian foundation with affordable pricing
- Thika Road Christian School – Most affordable Christian option
Application Process and Key Considerations
General Admission Requirements Across Schools:
Common Documents Needed:
- Completed application form
- Birth certificate copy
- Passport photographs (usually 2-4 recent photos)
- Previous school leaving certificate
- Medical report or health status
- Parent identification
Registration/Admission Fees:
- Braeside Thika: KSh 15,000 (deposit)
- Mahanaim: KSh 20,000 (registration, non-refundable)
- Westridge/Thika Road Academy: KSh 10,000-18,000
- Thika Road Christian School: KSh 1,000 (admission)
Important Notes:
- Interview with headteacher usually required
- School tours recommended before application
- Many schools have waiting lists during peak enrollment
- Fees subject to annual review and increases
- Payment plans vary by school (term-based vs. semester-based)
Additional Resources and Contact Information
The comprehensive table above provides quick reference contact information for all 10 schools, allowing parents to directly reach out for more detailed information about admissions, curriculum specifics, and scholarship opportunities.
Conclusion
International schools along Thika Road offer diverse options catering to different family needs, budgets, and educational philosophies. From the most affordable Thika Road Christian School at KSh 10,500 per term to premium options like Hilcrest International School and Brookhouse School, families have flexibility in choosing institutions aligned with their values and financial capacity.
Key Takeaway: The best school for your child depends on prioritizing factors that matter most to your family:
- If affordability is paramount, budget-friendly options deliver quality without financial strain
- If British/Cambridge curriculum and global recognition matter, mid-to-premium schools provide internationally respected qualifications
- If holistic development and character building are priorities, Christian-based and progressive schools offer strong values integration
- If premium facilities and proven track record are essential, established Braeburn Group schools provide unmatched infrastructure
We recommend visiting multiple schools, attending open days, speaking with current parents, and assessing your child’s individual learning style before making this important decision. Most schools offer virtual tours and are happy to discuss how their educational approach aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s aspirations.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I believe provide value. Thank you.
