Braeside Thika vs Lycée Français International Denis Diderot

	B Braeside Thika Nairobi, Kenya	L Lycée Français International Denis Diderot Nairobi, Kenya
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year KES 113,100 - 1,411,200	Fees / year KES 12,000 - 2,162,963
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, BTEC Qualification	Curriculum French Curriculum, British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 725	Pupils 676
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language French, English
Opened	Opened 1969	Opened 1962
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Braeside Thika is located on Mang'u Road, Exit 16A off the Thika Highway, Thika, Kenya. The mailing address is P.O. Box 750, 00100 Thika, Kenya. Telephone numbers are +254 721 374858 and +254 733 497988; admissions +254 119 734651.	Location Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi (Near Yaya Center)
Stages	Stages Early Years, Primary, and Secondary. We teach children from age 3 to 18.	Stages Ages 2 to 18
School type	School type Co-educational international school with boarding.	School type Private international school; accredited by the French Ministry of Education; member of the AEFE network
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Kenya	Country affiliation France
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service is available for weekly boarders. The bus drops off/picks up at Braeburn Garden Estate School (BGE); weekly boarders depart on Friday at 4:00 pm and return on Sunday by 5:00 pm. Parents/guardians can arrange pickup from the main school or from BGE.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration and Deposits - Registration (non-refundable): KES 5,000 payable with the completed registration form. - Tuition deposit (charged once on joining, top-up required for losses/breakages): KES 15,000 for all day-year groups. The deposit (or remaining balance) is refundable at the end of a pupil's final term following clearance by the headteacher. - Boarding deposit (where applicable): KES 10,000 charged once on joining; refundable as above after clearance. Tuition fees by year group — annual and per-term (KES) Note: Years 11–13 are billed in two tranches; all other years are billed in three tranches. Per-term amounts below are calculated by dividing the published annual tuition by the number of tranches billed for that year group and are rounded to the nearest KES. - Pre-Crèche: Annual tuition KES 113,100 — per term (3 tranches) KES 37,700. - Play Group: Annual tuition KES 255,000 — per term (3 tranches) KES 85,000. - FS1 (Nursery) & FS2 (Reception): Annual tuition KES 472,800 — per term (3 tranches) KES 157,600. - Year 1 & 2: Annual tuition KES 611,699 — per term (3 tranches) KES 203,900 (rounded). - Year 3 & 4: Annual tuition KES 841,499 — per term (3 tranches) KES 280,500 (rounded). - Year 5 & 6: Annual tuition KES 911,099 — per term (3 tranches) KES 303,700 (rounded). - Year 7 & 8: Annual tuition KES 1,199,999 — per term (3 tranches) KES 400,000 (rounded). - Year 9: Annual tuition KES 1,244,100 — per term (3 tranches) KES 414,700. - Year 10: Annual tuition KES 1,264,200 — per term (3 tranches) KES 421,400. - Year 11: Annual tuition KES 1,264,200 — per tranche (2 tranches) KES 632,100. - Year 12 & 13: Annual tuition KES 1,411,200 — per tranche (2 tranches) KES 705,600. Boarding fees - Year 3–6 (full boarding): Annual boarding fee KES 745,500; boarding deposit KES 10,000. - Year 7–13 (full boarding): Annual boarding fee KES 828,899; boarding deposit KES 10,000. - Boarding deposits are charged once on joining and refundable at the end of a pupil's final term following clearance by the headteacher. Other recurring fees and services (annual amounts) - Lunch: Pre-Crèche to Year 2 — KES 90,600; Year 3 to Year 11 — KES 113,400; Year 12 & 13 — KES 105,900. - Transport (annual by zone): Zone 1 — KES 132,000; Zone 2 — KES 162,900; Zone 3 — KES 272,400. Family transport discount applies (50% for 2nd and each subsequent sibling on same route). - Activity fees: Charged separately and communicated by official letter from the headteacher; these are not included in the annual tuition figures above. - Examinations and enrolment-related fees: Not included in the tuition figures above and charged where applicable. Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing schedule: Years 11–13 are billed in two tranches (August and December). All other year groups are billed in three tranches (August, December and April). Per-term tuition above follows this billing schedule. - Advance payment: In year groups with limited vacancies, a 20% advance of the tuition fee is payable against the first term's invoice; this advance payment is not refundable if a confirmed place is not taken up. - Early payment discount: A 3% discount on tuition is given when full payment is made within 6 days of the due date (fees are payable on or before the first day of each term). - Late payment surcharge: A surcharge of 1.25% per month is levied for late payment of fees. - Withdrawal/notice: A full term's written notice (acknowledged in writing by the headteacher) is required for withdrawals; otherwise a full term's fees are payable in lieu of such notice. Discounts - Family tuition discounts (applied to tuition only): 2nd child 10%; 3rd child 20%; 4th child 30%; 5th and subsequent child 40%. - Family transport discount: 50% on transport for the 2nd and each subsequent sibling on the same route. Refunds and adjustments - The tuition deposit (and boarding deposit where applicable) is refundable at the end of a pupil's final term after the headteacher's clearance, subject to deductions for losses or breakages. - The non-refundable registration fee and any non-refundable advance payments (where charged) are not refundable. Fee changes and governing terms - The Board of Directors reserves the right to alter fees with five months' notice. Fee payment options - The published fee structure does not specify the school's accepted payment channels (for example bank transfer, mobile-money, card or cheque) within the fee schedule. Please use the school contact details for current payment arrangements.	Fee details School year covered - Annual fee schedule and related charges shown below apply to the 2025–2026 academic year. Application & registration fees - Application / dossier fee: KES 12,000 per child. - First-time registration fee: KES 120,000 per child (charged at time of acceptance; must be paid within 10 days). - Re‑registration advance: KES 80,000 (advance on annual tuition fees) — non‑refundable. - These enrollment payments are not refundable. Annual tuition fees and per‑term (tranche) amounts — French & Kenyan nationals (KES) - Maternelle (annual): KES 700,000. Tranche 1 (40%): KES 280,000; Tranche 2 (30%): KES 210,000; Tranche 3 (30%): KES 210,000. - Élémentaire (annual): KES 1,154,449. Tranche 1: KES 461,780; Tranche 2: KES 346,335; Tranche 3: KES 346,335. - Collège (annual): KES 1,311,837. Tranche 1: KES 524,735; Tranche 2: KES 393,551; Tranche 3: KES 393,551. - Lycée (annual): KES 1,754,237. Tranche 1: KES 701,695; Tranche 2: KES 526,271; Tranche 3: KES 526,271. - All amounts shown in Kenyan shillings (KES). Annual tuition fees and per‑term (tranche) amounts — Other nationalities (KES) - Maternelle (annual): KES 800,000. Tranche 1 (40%): KES 320,000; Tranche 2 (30%): KES 240,000; Tranche 3 (30%): KES 240,000. - Élémentaire (annual): KES 1,423,361. Tranche 1: KES 569,344; Tranche 2: KES 427,008; Tranche 3: KES 427,008. - Collège (annual): KES 1,614,764. Tranche 1: KES 645,906; Tranche 2: KES 484,429; Tranche 3: KES 484,429. - Lycée (annual): KES 2,162,963. Tranche 1: KES 865,185; Tranche 2: KES 648,889; Tranche 3: KES 648,889. - All amounts shown in Kenyan shillings (KES). Billing schedule and payment terms - Two main payment rhythms: - Annual single payment: pay the full annual tuition before 30 September to receive a 5% discount. - Three‑installment (trimestrial) payment: tuition payable in three fractions (tranches). - Standard tranche due dates (when paying by trimester): Trimestre 1 due 15 September; Trimestre 2 due 15 January; Trimestre 3 due 15 April. - Late payment penalty: 5% per month applied to overdue amounts; penalties are cumulative. - Sibling reduction: 20% discount on tuition applicable from the third child of the same family (and for each subsequent child). - For students joining or leaving mid‑year, tuition is invoiced pro rata (the month of arrival or departure is billed in full unless exceptional weekly prorating is approved). - Invoices are issued through the school billing platform EDUKA; invoices must be paid according to the calendar above. Proof of payment should be sent to caisse@lyceefrancaisnairobi.com when required. Boarding fees - No boarding charges are listed in the school's fee schedule; the Lycée does not publish a boarding programme or boarding fees in the 2025–2026 fee documentation. Canteen (school lunch) — annual fees (KES) - Maternelle: 5 days/week KES 84,000; 4 days/week KES 67,200; 3 days/week KES 50,400. - Élémentaire: 5 days/week KES 101,500; 4 days/week KES 81,200; 3 days/week KES 60,900. - Secondaire: 5 days/week KES 119,000; 4 days/week KES 95,200; 3 days/week KES 71,400. - Canteen tariffs are indicative (based on a 35‑week year) and may vary with calendar days. Exam, option and ancillary fees (charges and timing) - Exam fees (billed in Trimester 3): DNB (Brevet): KES 9,400; Baccalauréat Première: KES 18,000; Baccalauréat Terminale: KES 51,370. - Cambridge language exam (mandatory for CM2 and 2nde): KES 17,550 to KES 27,000 (billed in Trimester 3). - Section Internationale Britannique (SIB) option (collège & lycée): KES 52,000 (billed in Trimester 1). - Model United Nations (MUN) option: KES 23,300 (billed in Trimester 1). - Extra‑curricular activities: average KES 25,000 per activity (charged when applicable). - Daycare / garderie: if registered, fixed package KES 3,500 per month; if not registered, KES 400 per day. - Textbooks, basic stationery supplies, one sports kit and a medicalized transport insurance are included in the tuition. Refunds and non‑refundables - Dossier (application) fees and first‑time registration payments are non‑refundable. - The re‑registration advance (KES 80,000) is explicitly stated as an advance on annual tuition and non‑refundable. - General rule in the financial regulations: enrollment‑related payments that validate registration are not refundable. Fee payment options and practical payment details - Accepted payment methods: - Bank transfer in EUR, KES or USD (school lists accounts for transfers). - Cheque payable to “Lycée Français Denis Diderot.” - M‑Pesa Paybill: Paybill number 453553 (the payment reference must be the invoice number). - Cash payments are no longer accepted. - Invoices issued in the EDUKA platform include amounts in Euro, KES and USD; the exchange rate applied is the chancery exchange rate on the date of invoicing. - In specific cases the school may agree a payment plan; approved plans are formalized and may require a direct debit or monthly instalments (for example nine monthly instalments from September to May if a plan is agreed). - For payment identification, use the student identity or family code shown in EDUKA and send proof of payment to caisse@lyceefrancaisnairobi.com when requested. - Failure to pay according to the calendar may result in penalties, suspension from activities, withholding of transfer documents or withholding of end‑of‑year certificates/diplomas until accounts are settled. Notes on discounts and penalties - 5% reduction on tuition if full annual payment is received in the school's bank account by 30 September. - 20% sibling reduction applied from the third child of the same family (on tuition). - Late payments incur a 5% monthly penalty, cumulative.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Braeside Thika offers Full Boarding and Weekly Boarding. Full boarders stay on campus during term with meals included and may go home on weekends if parents notify the Head of Boarding by Wednesday; weekend activities are available. Weekly boarders depart Fridays at 4:00 pm and return Sundays by 5:00 pm, with school transport arrangements as needed; overnight weekend plans can be arranged with prior notice. Four houses on site—Serengeti (junior boys), Zion (junior girls), Sahara (senior boys), and Shaba (senior girls)—each house up to 12 students.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement All students are required to wear the school uniform.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options Meals are provided daily as part of the dining arrangement, with nutritious, well-balanced meals; students may also bring a packed healthy lunch. There is a large dining facility with a fully equipped and staffed kitchen.	Food options The school has a canteen served by the private provider LENANA HAUS for students from kindergarten to the end of high school. Canteen catering is compulsory for primary students over 3 days; meals are prepared on site with attention to dietary needs, with provisions for diabetics or allergies via the PAI program or exemption with a medical certificate (in which case the canteen fee is not charged). A snack for Maternelle and Elementary is offered around 9:50 am with fruit; the menu includes 2 or 3 starters, a main course with meat, vegetables and starch, and a choice of 2 desserts. The canteen operates daily with Kindergarten at 12:00 (11:45 on Wednesdays and Fridays), Elementary at 12:00, and Secondary at 12:15; a hygiene and security committee checks hygiene rules. Digestive-disorder reports can be submitted via a dedicated form, and monthly canteen menus are posted.
House system	House system There are four houses on site: Serengeti House (junior boys), Zion House (junior girls), Sahara House (senior boys), and Shaba House (senior girls); each houses a maximum of 12 students and has a house parent.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Braeside Thika is a member of the Braeburn Group of International Schools.	Governance and ownership The school is a private international school in Nairobi certified by the French Ministry of Education and a member of the AEFE network.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school follows the British National Curriculum with additional learning opportunities to enhance it. The curriculum is balanced, broad and relevant, aiming to create active learners and responsible global citizens. Examinations are offered through Cambridge International Examinations (IGCSE and A levels). BTEC Level 3 qualifications are available. ABRSM music examinations are part of the school's assessment framework. The curriculum includes Performing Arts, Sports, Active lifestyles and Outdoor Learning, with a Personalised Learning Department to support or challenge learners.	Curriculum details The Lyce9e Frane7ais Denis Diderot offers the full French curriculum from Kindergarten to Lycee in Nairobi. It provides a bilingual French-English education, with Kindergarten taught by a French-speaking teacher, supported by assistants and an English teacher from the first year. The Primary program runs five years, developing core knowledge, with eight hours of foreign languages per week, including two hours of Swahili. Middle School spans four years with core disciplines and languages; a new foreign language is introduced in the second year. High School lasts three years; in the second year students choose majors and sit the French baccalaureate exam to prepare for higher studies. Parcours PARLE promotes multilingualism, and a British International Section is available on a trial basis, leading to the French international baccalaureate.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Studies after the French Baccalaureate can be pursued in many countries. France remains a privileged option for higher education, with opportunities in preparatory classes for Grandes Ecoles and admission to top universities (INSA Lyon, Louis-le-Grand, Montaigne, etc.). Graduates have enrolled in Canada (HEC Montre9al) and the United States (HULT International Business School), as well as programs in Great Britain, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Egypt and Malaysia. Orientation support for continuing with the STUDENT PLAN, including the Future course and resources from ONISEP, CIDJ, AEFE and PARCOUREO, plus the PRIO platform, helps families explore post-baccalaureate options.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented There is a Personalised Learning Department that provides additional support and challenge materials for very able pupils, based on informal teacher assessments to set targets and monitor progress.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Braeside Thika is guided by the Braeburn Group's vision to develop a strong sense of internationalism, encouraging cultural understanding, tolerance, open-mindedness and positivity. The school provides an education of high quality to maximise academic, physical and artistic potential and to foster active, compassionate lifelong learners. It develops personal integrity, inner reflection and ambition for both personal and group success while encouraging responsibility for one's actions. The community emphasises diversity and inclusivity, nurturing personal growth within a proudly international school environment. Every student is supported to become a confident individual, a responsible global citizen and a successful lifelong learner.	Social & emotional learning LFIDD prioritizes student wellbeing and a positive school climate. It launched the pHARe safeguarding program to prevent harassment and to create an inclusive, caring, and protective environment. The program includes staff training and guidance on handling harassment and promoting wellbeing. The school is committed to an inclusive, benevolent, and protective environment for all students. Parent involvement via the PundaKtiv association supports the school community and student wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school welcomes children with mild learning difficulties and offers a range of additional support, with inclusion in mainstream classes and withdrawal from one or two subjects in consultation with parents. Where known or suspected, parents are encouraged to inform the school of any additional needs before admission. If the school cannot meet a child's needs, parents will be advised to withdraw and recommendations for alternative provision will be made. The school provides inclusion in mainstream classes with targeted adjustments, and there is a specialist Personalised Learning Department to provide support and challenge materials for pupils.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school adapts to the needs of each child. Each primary class receives one hour per week of remedial learning activities targeting students with specific needs. In secondary, homework support is available for 6eme class, and tutoring is organized for students who need it. A team of shadow teachers (AESH) is available to assist students with disabilities or special needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The admissions policy states the school has limited provision for children with no knowledge of English. EYU and KS1 pupils are supported in mainstream classes whether beginners or more advanced. KS2 and KS3 beginners undergo an intensive English course for an hour a day for 10 weeks, withdrawn from Literacy in the morning lessons where possible.	English as an additional language English is taught by native English-speaking teachers. In kindergarten and elementary, 30% of school time is in English under the EMILE system; in elementary, three hours weekly are dedicated specifically to learning English. In secondary, English teaching is reinforced and provided by native speakers in skill groups. The British International Section adds six hours per week of English (four hours English Language and Literature and two hours History-Geography in English), increasing English exposure to more than 30% of secondary education. From the fifth grade, a third living language (Spanish or German) is taught, and Mandarin is available as an extracurricular option. The school also offers language certificates: DELF for French, Cambridge English Language Assessment, DELE for Spanish, and Goethe for German.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The curriculum emphasises developing a healthy lifestyle to aid physical and mental well-being through co-curricular and sporting activities. It also focuses on personal integrity and inner reflection, fostering ambition for personal and group success while encouraging responsibility for one's actions. The vision states every student should be a successful learner, a confident individual and a responsible citizen. The mission highlights valuing diversity, inclusivity and internationalism within a caring environment, contributing to emotional and social well-being.	Mental wellbeing Student wellbeing is a focus at LFIDD as part of safeguarding and school climate initiatives, including the pHARe program and ongoing staff training to support mental health and safety.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding All Braeside Thika staff are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people at the school. A Safeguarding Policy applies to all adults, including volunteers, working in or on behalf of the school and serves as an overarching document to keep children safe from harm and abuse. A Complaints Policy and Procedures exist to address parent concerns in accordance with policy. Braeside Thika is a member of the Braeburn Group of International Schools, which supports safeguarding standards. Safeguarding and the welfare of children are everyone's responsibility, with staff following defined procedures and responsibilities.	Safeguarding LFIDD launched pHARe, a safeguarding program to prevent harassment and protect students, with staff training and a focus on school climate and inclusion.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school operates from modern, architecturally designed buildings that create a comfortable and stimulating classroom environment. All classrooms are equipped with a data projector and ICT facilities. There is a dedicated 6th Form area, a well-equipped, age-appropriate library, and a music room with a range of instruments. The campus also contains two computing suites, an art room, three specialist science laboratories, and a Food and Nutrition classroom with internationally sourced teaching and learning resources. Outdoor facilities include an open-air auditorium, playing fields, a 25-metre swimming pool with a dedicated Early Years pool, a large dining facility, a sick bay, a fleet of buses, and secure car parks.	Facilities overview The campus covers 2 hectares and is located along Argwings Kodhek Road in Kilimani, near the Yaya Center. The school has 35 classrooms including exam rooms (capacity 25 students), two libraries, one large performance hall, one music studio, state-of-the-art media technology suites, science laboratories, a clean canteen, and nap rooms for the youngest students.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Playing fields provide space for outdoor sport. The campus also includes a 25-metre swimming pool with a dedicated pool for Early Years.	Sports facilities The school has a multi-purpose field of over 3,000 sqm, a running track, two basketball courts, a handball court, a tennis court, a 450 sqm gymnasium, a 100 sqm PE room, a gym, and a climbing wall.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities All classrooms are equipped with a data projector and ICT equipment; a dedicated 6th Form area provides private study space; there is a well-equipped, age-appropriate library, and a Music room with a variety of instruments. The campus also houses two computing suites, an art room, three specialist science laboratories, and a Food and Nutrition classroom, with internationally sourced teaching and learning resources.	Academic facilities The school has 35 classrooms including exam rooms (capacity 25 students), two libraries, science laboratories, state-of-the-art media technology suites, a music studio, and a large performance hall.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities All students take part in at least two extra-curricular activities per week, extended to four for boarding students. Activities include Bible study; board games; chess; CAS; computer games; dance; debating; EAMUN; martial arts (Taekwondo); maths clinic; president awards (PA); school production; Scouts; story yoga; rollerblading; World Scholars. Sports include athletics, basketball, cross-country, football, rugby, hockey, netball, rounders, swimming, and tennis.	Extra curricular facilities AES (Extra Curricular Activities) are offered.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Braeside Thika originated on the Del Monte pineapple plantation in 1969. The Braeburn Group took over the school in January 2011. The school moved to a brand-new building on Mangu Road in Thika in September 2013. It is part of the Braeburn Group of International Schools.	History Created in 1962, the Lyce9e Frane7ais International Denis Diderot is one of the oldest international schools in Kenya and one of the most recognized. LFIDD is the only Nairobi institution offering the French curriculum from preschool through high school. The school is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and is a member of the AEFE network.
Community	Community Braeside Thika fosters community through FABT, the Friends at Braeside Thika, a parent-teacher group that coordinates family events. Parents are actively involved through regular communication, termly reports, and parent meetings. FABT also organizes family social events that bring families into school life. In October 2025, the Fathers and guardians hosted Building the Men of Tomorrow, a community event that supported Braeside's boys.	Community LFIDD provides a bilingual French-English education and sits on a 2-hectare campus along Argwings Kodhek Road in Kilimani, Nairobi. Multilingualism is central to the school7s mission, with students gaining fluency in two major international languages. The school supports a vibrant cultural and community life with active involvement from families and the wider LFIDD community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association FABT (Friends at Braeside Thika) is the parent-teacher association. It connects families with the school and coordinates family social events. Members participate in regular communication with the school and attend termly reports and parent meetings. FABT supports school activities and fosters community among Braeside Thika families. The association is involved in events such as Building the Men of Tomorrow, a Fathers and Guardians event.	Parent teacher association Pundaktiv is a group of parent volunteers who organize festive and cultural events at LFIDD, collaborating with the school leadership, administration and teaching staff. Major events include the big Christmas party (December), the carnival (February), the school festival (Kermesse) in April/May, and the production of the year7s yearbook. Contact pundaktiv@lyceefrancaisnairobi.com. The LFIDD Parents Association (APE) has a board with Judy Kagure as President, Anne-Marie Pasinetti as Vice President, and Jerome Chapuis as Treasurer.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school has Debating, East Africa Model United Nations (EAMUN), and Maths Clinic to develop academic and analytical skills. World Scholars provides opportunities for advanced academic exploration. CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) supports holistic learning, and President Awards (PA) recognise achievement. These activities extend learning beyond the classroom.	Academic & intellectual The school is a private international school in Nairobi certified by the French Ministry of Education and a member of the AEFE network. It has operated for over 60 years and offers a bilingual French-English education for students aged 2 to 18. From kindergarten to the lycée, education is designed to develop student autonomy and uses innovative teaching methods. It is a Cambridge English Language Assessment center offering Cambridge certifications (YLE, KET, PET, FCE, C1 Advanced) aligned with CEFR levels.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The school has Dance as an arts-based extracurricular. School Production provides opportunities for performance and collaboration. Story Yoga is available as a creative activity. These arts activities contribute to artistic expression and school events.	Arts & creative The campus houses a large performance hall and a music studio, with two libraries and science laboratories to support creativity and inquiry. Extra-curricular activities in arts, culture and languages are offered outside classroom hours through AES. The school emphasizes a vibrant cultural life and creative projects as part of the broader school experience.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The school runs East Africa Model United Nations (EAMUN) as an extracurricular. This program promotes international understanding and cross-cultural collaboration. It supports global citizenship and teamwork through interactions with peers from different backgrounds. The school also engages students in related cultural activities during events.	Cultural & language Multilingualism is central to the programme, and the Lycée enables students to become fluent in two major international languages, French and English. A British International Section is offered in primary and is available on a trial basis in secondary, designed to deepen English proficiency while continuing French education, and it leads to the French international baccalaureate. The approach is bilingual and bicultural, with English used in certain subjects to build language proficiency.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school has Board games and Computer games as social and hobby activities. Rollerblading and Scouts provide recreational and social engagement. Dance and other performances offer opportunities for social participation beyond the classroom. The activities help students pursue personal interests outside lessons.	Social & hobbies AES (Extra Curricular Activities) are sporting, cultural or linguistic activities offered outside the curriculum and school time. Registration for AES follows the EDUKA portal, with term-based enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year. Students participate in a range of activities, including sports, cultural activities and language clubs.
Community & service	Community & service CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) engages students in service and community involvement. The President Awards (PA) recognises community service and achievement. These activities emphasise social responsibility and community engagement beyond academics.	Community & service The LFIDD community life is vibrant, with a Parents Association (APE) and Alumni network, plus other parent and student groups that contribute to school life. The school emphasizes cultural and community life as an integral part of the student experience and hosts events that involve families and the wider community.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Debating and East Africa Model United Nations (EAMUN) develop leadership, research and public-speaking skills. The President Awards (PA) provides leadership and achievement opportunities. Participation in these programs builds professional competencies such as teamwork, communication and project planning.	Leadership & professional Formal student leadership structures include the High School Life Council. Model United Nations is a regular feature of student life, contributing to leadership, teamwork and public speaking skills. The campus and clubs provide opportunities to develop collaboration, communication and organizational abilities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Athletics, Basketball, Cross-country, Football, Hockey, Netball, Rounders, Rugby, Swimming, Table-tennis, and Tennis are part of the sports program. Martial arts: Taekwondo is offered as part of the programme. Dance and Story Yoga provide wellbeing and mindfulness opportunities. The broad sport and activity options promote physical health and wellbeing for students.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Facilities support sport and fitness, including a multi-purpose field, running track, two basketball courts, a handball court, a tennis court, a gymnasium and PE room. Swimming is taught from primary levels as part of the curriculum. The Denis Diderot Trophy showcases sport, teamwork and school spirit, reflecting the value placed on physical well-being and community.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is the predominant language of instruction. Kiswahili and French are offered as modern foreign languages. French is taught from primary through secondary and is an optional IGCSE subject.	Language provision The school teaches in French and English, with English integrated into certain subjects and from kindergarten. Primary includes eight hours of foreign languages per week, including two hours of Swahili. Parcours PARLE supports multilingualism and enables fluency in two major international languages.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school delivers a bilingual French-English education for students aged 2 to 18.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs The British international section is a bilingual and bicultural scheme that trains pupils of all nationalities to practice English in depth, including using English in certain subjects. It leads to the French international baccalaureate.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations The Lycée Français Denis Diderot (LFIDD) is a private international school in Nairobi certified by the French Ministry of Education and a member of the AEFE network. The school teaches a bilingual French–English education for students aged 2 to 18, from kindergarten to the lycée, and has been operating for over 60 years.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Overview: Braeside Thika welcomes children from all backgrounds. The Primary school serves ages 2 to 11, and the Secondary school serves up to 18. The academic year begins in September, but students can join at any time. To reserve a place, complete the application form and pay a small non-refundable registration fee; an offer is made in writing depending on places available. If a place cannot be accommodated immediately, a waiting list is used. 2. Admissions process: Before starting the admissions process we recommend you visit the school for a tour, or have an informal chat with the headteacher if you are out of the country. Final admission is subject to interview with the headteacher. Upon successful completion of the admissions process you will receive a letter from the headteacher confirming the placement and the start date. 3. Admissions policy details: Braeside Thika follows the Braeburn Group of International Schools policy. Supporting documents include copies of passport or birth certificate, the previous 2 reports, leaving certificate from the previous school. Year group age requirements are listed (Creche to Year 12) with placement by age; exceptions may be made for Additional Educational Needs with substantial evidence. Children are never placed above their age band. Parents of July/August birthdays may choose to hold their children back; the advantages and possible disadvantages will be explained on admission. Waiting lists exist when a year group is full; priority may be given to siblings. Admission testing is used to assess access to the curriculum and to help set targets. The headteacher's letter confirms placement and start date after successful completion of the process.	Admissions Step 1. New students are welcomed at the beginning of the school year (September) and throughout the year. Registrations for the 2025-2026 year are now open. The registration process is initiated online via the Online Registration link in the Registration section. The online registration is accessible to families as part of the admission process. Step 2. Step to registration. Online registration is the primary route to apply. The process is accessed by clicking the Online Registration link. Families are directed to follow the online steps to complete the application. The 2025-2026 registration cycle is specified on the page. Step 3. Important information. Tuition is paid by families and the financial terms are described in the Financial Regulations. Canteen: school meals are compulsory for primary pupils on three long days (Monday-Tuesday-Thursday). Immigration: it is the parents' responsibility to be in good standing with Kenyan immigration authorities; a certificate of enrolment and a school letter may be provided to complete the student pass application. Communication: information relating to school life is distributed electronically to the email address provided by the parents. School Insurance: the school insures its pupils for school insurance and medical transport. Step 4. Admission procedures. Admission procedures are differentiated by the pupil's prior schooling background. Case 1 applies to pupils enrolled in a public or AEFE network school in France or a French school abroad during the previous school year or the current school year. These pupils are admitted to the class indicated by the orientation decision or the dialogue form, for entry into 2nde, 1ère and Terminale, with priority given subject to availability of places. Case 2 applies to pupils who attended a school not approved by the French Ministry of Education during the previous or current school year, or who have had an interruption of 3 months or more in the AEFE network; a placement test will be carried out to determine the appropriate level.
Scholarships	Scholarships Braeside Thika opens scholarship applications for Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12 applicants for September 2026. Scholarships are available in All Round, Academic, Excellence In Extracurricular Activities, and Leadership categories. For details on the application criteria, view the All Round, Academic, Excellence In Extracurricular Activities, and Leadership documents. Important dates include: Closing Date: Friday, 14th November 2025; Scholarship Interview Day: Wednesday, 19th November 2025; Scholarship Shortlisting Day: Monday, 24th November 2025; Offer Announcement: Tuesday, 2nd December 2025. All external scholarship applications must include the completion of a formal school admission form. Braeside Thika is a member of the Braeburn Group of International Schools.	Scholarships The Lycée is a non-profit school, subsidized by the French state, which allows tuition fees to be 30% to 27% lower than other international schools in Nairobi. AEFE scholarships: French families can apply for a grant from AEFE. This tuition assistance is reserved for children of French nationality residing with their families in Kenya, and under certain means conditions, the scholarship may cover up to 100% of tuition fees. Applications and renewal files can be collected from the French Embassy. Two committees meet during the year: in May, for the regular committee ruling on applications for the upcoming school year; and in October/November, for the remedial commission concerning new students enrolled in the Lycée for the current year. The opening dates of the scholarship campaign and submission of files are published on this site. A brochure AEFE is available for more information.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting lists are used when a year group is full; waiting lists operate on a first come, first served basis; priority may be given to siblings of children who have a place.	Waitlist —
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