Light International School and The Nairobi Academy are both in Nairobi, about 1 km apart. Both schools offer Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge A Levels programmes. Light International School also offers Cambridge International AS Levels, IPC and IEYC, and The Nairobi Academy also offers British, Cambridge (Secondary), BTEC Qualification and IB. Published annual fees are KES 752,000 - 2,623,000 at Light International School and KES 428,500 - 1,494,500 at The Nairobi Academy, which puts Light International School roughly 76% higher. Light International School takes pupils from 3 to 18, and The Nairobi Academy from 2 to 18. Typical class sizes are 20 at Light International School and 15 at The Nairobi Academy.
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Light International School
Nairobi, Kenya
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The Nairobi Academy
Nairobi, Kenya
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year KES 752,000 - 2,623,000 | Fees / year KES 428,500 - 1,494,500 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 2 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding) | Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding) |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, IPC (International Primary Curriculum), IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum) | Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels, BTEC Qualification, IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 572 | Pupils — |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 20 | Typical class size 15 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened 1976 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Light International School Nairobi is located in Karen, Nairobi, Kenya. The postal address is P.O. Box 1799-00502 Karen, Nairobi, Kenya. The school can be reached by telephone at +254 703 200 002 or +254 717 998 888 and by email at info@lis.sc.ke. The Karen campus serves students from diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds. | Location Langata Road, Next to Mamba Village, Nairobi. P.O. Box 24817-00502 Karen, Nairobi Kenya. The Nairobi Academy Kindergarten (Kenwood Nairobi Academy) is on General Mathenge Drive, Westlands. |
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Stages
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Stages Kindergarten (Aged 3-5) through A-level (Year 13) as part of the Cambridge International Curriculum. | Stages Early Years (Kenwood Nairobi Academy Kindergarten; Nairobi Academy Pre-preparatory School), Preparatory, Secondary. |
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School type
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School type The school is a co-educational day and boarding school. | School type Private day and boarding school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix 15 nationalities represented | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support — | Additional learning support Pastoral care and wellbeing, including guidance and counselling, PSHE, Careers Education and Guidance, co-curricular engagements, talent and competencies development, leadership and student voice. Safeguarding is a core commitment. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation — | Country affiliation Kenya |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation — |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure — |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details — | Bus service details We have a fleet of buses and vans to transport students from home to school and back. Transport is not compulsory. Routes include Karen – Hardy; Rongai; Ngong; South B – NHC – Bomas; Dam – Phenom – Game Park; South B – Mombasa Road; Adams – Kilimani – Ngumo – Madaraka; SSD – Lavington; Lang'ata; Kileleshwa; UNEP – Highridge – Ngara; Rongai – Twala; South C. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Scope and academic year The fees below apply to the 2025/2026 academic year and cover one-time registration amounts, termly tuition and ancillary term charges, boarding charges where applicable, payment terms, and common additional costs. Application / one‑time registration fees - Interview / assessment fee (Primary, Secondary, AS & A‑Level): KES 5,000 (one‑time). - Interview / assessment fee (Kindergarten): KES 2,000 (one‑time). - Admission fee: KES 30,000 (one‑time). - Caution / security deposit: KES 50,000 (refundable subject to school conditions). - Boarding caution deposit (where applicable): KES 30,000 (one‑time). Tuition and term charges (per term) — day students and per‑term ancillary items - Kindergarten (KG 1–3): Tuition KES 188,000 per term; Lunch KES 35,000 per term; Stationery KES 5,000 per term; Club fee KES 11,000 per term; Online subscriptions KES 5,000 per term. Annual tuition (three terms) = KES 564,000 (tuition only). - Years 1–2: Tuition KES 244,000 per term; Lunch (Years 1–6) KES 47,000 per term; Stationery KES 5,000 per term (Term I & II 5,000; Term III sometimes shown as KES 4,000); Club fee KES 11,000 per term; Online subscriptions KES 5,000 per term. - Years 3–4: Tuition KES 297,000 per term; ancillary charges same structure as Years 1–2 (Lunch, stationery, clubs, subscriptions). - Years 5–6: Tuition KES 385,000 per term; Lunch KES 47,000 per term; Stationery and other term charges as above. - Years 7–8: Tuition KES 417,000 per term; Lunch KES 59,000 per term (Years 7–10); Stationery KES 6,000 per term; Club fee KES 11,000 per term; Online subscriptions KES 5,000 per term. - Years 9–10: Tuition KES 442,000 per term; Boarding (where applicable) KES 338,000 per term; Lunch KES 59,000 per term; Stationery KES 6,000 per term; Club fee and subscriptions as above. - Year 11 (IGCSE first year/candidate year): Tuition KES 663,000 per term (fees for Year 11 are charged over two terms only — Term 1 and Term 2); Stationery KES 9,000 per term; Lunch and club charges applicable (see Year 11 items). Annual tuition (two‑term basis) = KES 1,326,000. - Years 12–13 (AS & A Level): Tuition KES 758,000 per term (charged over two terms only — Term 1 and Term 2); Boarding for Years 11–13 KES 445,000 per term (two‑term billing where applicable); Stationery and other term charges specified for senior years. Annual tuition (two‑term basis) = KES 1,516,000. Annual totals (examples / consolidated view) - Typical annual totals (tuition + routine term charges) are published by year group; examples include KES 585,500 for Nursery/Kindergarten levels and higher totals for primary and secondary year groups as shown in the school's published fee breakdown. Use the per‑term numbers above to compute the exact annual amount for each year group (three‑term or two‑term billing as applicable). Boarding fees and rules - Boarding charges by year group (per term): Years 9–10 boarding KES 338,000 per term; Years 11–13 boarding KES 445,000 per term (Years 11–13 billed over two terms only where applicable). Boarding caution deposit: KES 30,000 (one‑time). No reimbursement, refund, or credit note is made if a student drops boarding unless otherwise determined by the school's formal drop/notice procedure. Other one‑time and recurring costs - Textbook / curriculum materials (annual, by year): KG KES 20,000; Years 1–6 KES 35,000; Years 7–10 & 12 KES 40,000; some candidate year groups (IGCSE / A‑level) have examination‑linked or subject fees additionally. - Graduation fees for certain year groups: KG3 KES 7,000; Year 6 KES 8,500; some senior graduation/certification charges (example: Year 11/13 graduation items) shown separately. - Exam and exam‑related fees (Cambridge IGCSE / AS / A‑Level / BTEC): Candidate exam fees and subject entry fees are charged in addition to tuition; Cambridge examination fees for candidate classes must be paid by the stated school deadline (for example, by 30 January for candidate year groups). Practical/art facilitation and subject‑based exam fees are charged where applicable. - Routine charges that appear termly: student ID KES 1,000 (annual), emergency health services KES 2,000 (annual), yearbook KES 3,000 (annual), career testing/counselling and other optional services where applicable. - School and PE uniform are not included in the fees; uniform costs are billed separately. Lunch is compulsory for day students. Billing schedule, payment terms and penalties - Term billing: For KG–Year 10 and most year groups, termly fees are chargeable and payable over three terms (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3). For Years 11–13 (senior candidate years) fee types are chargeable and payable over two terms (Term 1 and Term 2) as specified. All fee types must be paid in full at least fifteen working days before the start of each term. - Late payment penalty: A surcharge of 5% is levied per month on any outstanding fee balance. - Notice and withdrawal: A full term's written notice to, and acknowledgement by, the Principal is required for withdrawal; otherwise a full term's fees is payable in lieu of notice. In specific year groups with limited vacancies, a non‑refundable advance/commitment payment (50% of tuition) may be required as part of first term fees. Refunds and refundable items - The standard caution deposit (KES 50,000) is refundable subject to the school's refund conditions and account settlement. Certain advance/commitment payments and some other deposits are explicitly non‑refundable in case a placement is forfeited. No reimbursement or credit note is made if a student drops boarding unless the formal drop process and any school conditions provide otherwise. A cleared fees balance is required for exam registration and issuance of official documents. Fee payment methods and instructions - Accepted methods: Bank transfer and bank cash deposit to the school's Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) account using the student's Virtual Bank Account number as the payment reference; parents/guardians are asked to forward payment confirmation to the school's specified WhatsApp numbers or email address for reconciliation. Cheques and direct cash payments to the school are not accepted. International/telegraphic transfers may require the KCB SWIFT code and correct account reference. Use the student's virtual account number on the payment reference to ensure correct posting. Discounts and special billing rules - Sibling discount (applies to tuition only for registered Light Group siblings): 2nd child 5% tuition discount; 3rd child 10%; 4th and subsequent siblings 15% (first born not entitled to discount). When a sibling graduates or transfers the discount allocation is recalculated. In certain year groups a 50% non‑refundable advance may be requested to secure a place. Notes for calculation and use - Use the per‑term figures above together with the billing rules (three‑term or two‑term billing) to compute annual totals for each year group. Boarding, examination, subject‑specific, and one‑time registration charges are additional to term tuition and must be added when estimating total annual cost for admission and enrollment. | Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Registration fee (one-off, non‑refundable): KES 15,000. - Testing/assessment fee (applicants): KES 5,000. Pre‑Preparatory (PP1 – PP4 / Reception / Year 1) — Tuition (termly) - PP1 (age 2–3) Playgroup: KES 115,000 (termly). Lunches and afternoon school are exclusive for PP1. - PP2 (age 3–4) Nursery: KES 145,000 (termly). Lunches and afternoon school are exclusive for PP2. - PP3 (age 4–5) Reception: KES 160,000 (termly). Lunches are inclusive. - PP4 / Year 1 (age 5–6): KES 195,000 (termly). Lunches are inclusive. Miscellaneous charges for Pre‑Preparatory: - Ambulance & insurance services: KES 1,000. - Parents' Teachers' Association levy: KES 500. - Afternoon school: KES 12,000. - Lunch (where charged): KES 16,000 (pre‑prep). Occasional lunches per meal: KES 500. - School magazine (annual): KES 2,000. Preparatory School (Year 2 – Year 7) — Tuition (termly) - Year 2 (age 6–7): KES 225,000 (termly). - Year 3 (age 7–8): KES 270,000 (termly). - Year 4 (age 8–9): KES 285,000 (termly). - Year 5 (age 9–10): KES 340,000 (termly). - Year 6 (age 10–11): KES 350,000 (termly). - Year 7 (age 11–12): KES 370,000 (termly). Miscellaneous charges for Preparatory: - Ambulance & insurance services: KES 1,000. - Parents' Teachers' Association levy: KES 500. - Lunch (compulsory for Years 2–7): KES 38,500 (per term). - Internet charges (compulsory Years 2–7): KES 4,500 (per term). - Bus transport: charged according to the school's zonal plan (amount varies by zone). - Caution fee (refundable on leaving): KES 40,000. - School magazine (annual): KES 2,000. Secondary School (Year 8 – Year 13, plus BTEC/IB) - Year 8 (age 12–13): KES 375,000 (termly). - Year 9 (age 13–14): KES 392,000 (termly). - Year 10 (age 14–15): KES 410,000 (termly). - Year 11 (age 15–16): KES 1,230,000 (per annum). - Year 12 (age 16–17): KES 1,306,500 (per annum). - Year 13 (age 17–18): KES 1,306,500 (per annum). - BTEC programme (per annum): KES 1,085,400. - IB Diploma programme (per annum): KES 1,354,500. Secondary miscellaneous and extras: - Internet charges (compulsory Years 8–13): KES 6,000 (per academic year or as charged). - Lunch (compulsory for Years 8–13): KES 42,500 (per term). - Student lockers: KES 1,000 (per term). - Annual assessment fee for BTEC students: KES 87,000. - Caution fee (refundable on leaving): KES 50,000. - School magazine (annual): KES 2,000. - Ambulance & insurance services: KES 1,000. Boarding fees and boarder charges - Full boarding fee (termly): KES 203,500. - Medical cover for full boarders (per annum): KES 52,000. - Weekly boarding (Monday–Friday): KES 25,000 (termly unless otherwise stated). - Weekend boarding (two days): KES 10,000 (termly unless otherwise stated). - Caution money (refundable on leaving) for boarders/local students: KES 27,000. - Caution money (refundable on leaving) for foreign students: KES 100,000. - Entertainment imprest for boarders (accountable): KES 6,500. Discounts and inclusions - Tuition fees are stated as inclusive of books and stationery where specified. - Family discount on tuition fees only: 5% on the second child; 15% on the third and subsequent siblings. Refunds & non‑refundable items - Registration fee: one‑off, non‑refundable. - Testing fee: charged on application (KES 5,000). The document lists this fee without refund. - Caution fees / caution money: shown as refundable on leaving (amounts vary by section and by local/foreign status as above). Billing schedule & payment terms (as stated in the fee schedule) - Many tuition figures are presented on a termly basis; certain senior years and programme fees (Years 11–13, BTEC, IB) are shown as per annum. Early‑payment discounts may be applied and are determined on a termly basis. Transport is charged according to the school's zonal plan. Family discounts apply to tuition only. Other costs commonly noted - Bus transport: charged according to four zones (amount varies by route/zone). - Lockers, magazines, occasional lunches and afternoon school charges as itemized above. - Uniform costs are not itemized in the published fee schedule. Fee payment options - The published 2025/26 fee schedule lists fees, termly/per‑annum presentation and a statement that early‑payment discounts and family discounts apply, but it does not specify detailed payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, M‑Pesa, paybill, etc.) or explicit billing dates in the fee document itself. Contact the school's admissions or finance office for the accepted payment channels and exact due dates. Summary of coverage in this fee schedule: the document provides complete termly tuition figures for Pre‑Preparatory and Preparatory years, termly amounts for Years 8–10 and per‑annum figures for Years 11–13 and for the BTEC/IB programmes, plus boarding tariffs, listed miscellaneous charges, family discount rules, and which items are refundable or non‑refundable. Specific payment channels and a full billing calendar are not specified in the published fee schedule. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements Boarding options include Full Boarders who stay on campus throughout the term and go home during holidays, and Weekly Boarders who stay on campus during the week and return home on weekends. Boarding life is supervised by on-site supervisors who live on campus and provide round-the-clock support and mentorship. Facilities include modern dormitories, study rooms, gaming rooms, mentorship rooms, TV rooms, a laundry area, clean washrooms, and hot showers. | Boarding arrangements The Nairobi Academy has Bentley Hall Boarding House for male and female boarders. Each boarding house is self-contained with three bedrooms and at least one bathroom (most have two). Students may choose roommates within their key stage for support, and lounges are equipped with DSTV and Wi‑Fi for study and recreation. The Bentley Hall boarding is located in Karen and within the school compound, offering convenient and safe access between the school and boarding facilities. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement The school has a school uniform and dress code; uniforms and PE uniforms are required, with details including a house T-shirt/jersey for house activities; uniforms are not included in the fees. | Uniform requirement On PE or squash days, students wear PE kit. On other days, students wear full school uniform. On swimming days, students wear full school uniform and carry their swim kit; swim costumes are available for sale on sports day. No bikinis are allowed. |
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Food options
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Food options Lunch is available and is compulsory for day students; lunch fees and boarding fees are subject to amendment. | Food options The catering team prepares meals daily for students and staff following a pre-communicated menu. The menu varies by day and by week. |
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House system
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House system Every student belongs to one of four houses: Heisenberg – Green, Tesla – Red, Feynman – Yellow, Newton – Blue. These houses compete in events such as Fun Day and the annual house quiz, and also undertake community links through house activities. | House system The Nairobi Academy uses a four-house system led by House Captains and Vice Captains from Year 6 and Year 5 respectively. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is governed by a five-member Board appointed at the annual general meeting of Omeriye Limited, the legal entity of the school, and LIS is associated with Light Group Of Schools. | Governance and ownership — |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The Cambridge International Curriculum is used at Light International School Nairobi. The curriculum is based on Cambridge Assessment International Education programs, starting with Cambridge Primary and moving through to IGCSE and Cambridge AS & A Levels. The school is accredited as a Cambridge International School for Primary, Key Stage 3, IGCSE and A Level Programs. Light International School provides a full Cambridge curriculum for ages 3 to 18. The program emphasizes cross-curricular learning and the use of technology to enhance learning, and prepares students for admission to universities worldwide. | Curriculum details Curriculum at a glance: Nairobi Academy offers a multi-path secondary curriculum. KS3 IGCSE (ages 12-13) forms the basis of learning, with Year 9 students choosing IGCSE options. KS4 IGCSE (ages 14-16) provides a broad range of subjects with five compulsory subjects: English, Mathematics, two or three Sciences, and History or Geography, plus four or five other subjects including a modern language and a humanities subject. A Level (ages 16-18) comprises the GCE A Level programme and Pearson BTEC, with three A Level subjects chosen from seven options, and enrichment including guidance on university applications. The Nairobi Academy is authorized for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) and is pursuing authorization for the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Career-related Programme (CP). Extra-curricular activities include a variety of clubs and societies to complement academic learning. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio 1:67. | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results SAT results (2018-2019): Participation 19%; Average Score 1310. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression College and University Acceptances in the past five years include University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University College London, Simon Fraser University, University of Manitoba, University of Houston, Strathmore University, South China University, University of Texas, Queensland University of Business, Coventry University, Nairobi University, Deakin College, Trent University, Mount Kenya University, and Loughborough University. | Higher education progression Higher Education and Careers: The Careers Counselling Department uses a framework that focuses students on recognizing and creating opportunities to make informed career choices by defining their career goals in an annual Career Action Plan. The Careers' Action Plan is based on the Key Stages, with the Careers' Head working closely with Year Group Coordinators and Form Tutors to provide support. Key Stage 3 (Year 8 and 9) introduces career activities and resources to help students choose IGCSE options in Year 9. Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11) centers on refining the career action plan with experiences such as Work Experience. Key Stage 5 (Year 12 and 13) offers exposure to Career and University Fairs, training on Personal Statements, Personal Branding, and other competencies to prepare for tertiary education and the world of work. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning Guidance & Counselling (Non Academics) is offered as part of the Cambridge Secondary curriculum to support students' personal development and well-being. | Social & emotional learning The Nairobi Academy provides wellbeing, positive behaviour management, PSHE, Careers Education and Guidance, co-curricular engagements, talent and competencies development, vibrant sportsmanship, leadership and student voice, community service learning, international mindedness, structured mentorship, alumni and guest speaker series, and power mornings. Every member of staff understands their primary duty is to ensure learners feel safe, happy and have a sense of community. The Pastoral Department organises regular Parents' Talks and Seminars addressing pertinent and emerging issues affecting learners. Pastoral care is organised through three Key Stages: Key Stage 3 (Years 8–9), Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11) and Key Stage 5 (Years 12–13). |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The school considers learning support needs in class allocations to balance year groups and accommodate students who require additional learning support. | Special educational needs (SEN) — |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language English as a second language is included in the English curriculum. | English as an additional language — |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Health and safety are a priority; the school maintains a drug-free environment and will safeguard the well-being of its members. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through wellbeing initiatives within pastoral care, PSHE, Careers Education and Guidance, and structured mentorship. Staff receive regular briefings and training on how to support children as they navigate school life in a multicultural environment. The approach emphasizes helping learners stay healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged, with leadership and student voice opportunities contributing to wellbeing. The school also offers regular Parents' Talks and Seminars addressing learner welfare and development. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding The school is guided by the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and the Children's Act; the school has a legal responsibility to provide a safe and healthy environment and to safeguard the best interests of the child. | Safeguarding Child Protection and safeguarding are central to The Nairobi Academy. All staff understand their duty to ensure learners feel safe, happy and part of a caring community. Regular staff briefings and training are provided on how to support children as they navigate school life in a diverse environment. The Pastoral Care organizes Parents' Talks and Seminars addressing pertinent safeguarding issues affecting learners. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Nairobi campus has modern facilities and technology to support learning. The curriculum is based on the British education system (IGCSE) and is tailored to the needs of each student. A wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, complements academics. Technology is integrated into teaching to enhance the learning experience. | Facilities overview The school has modern classes with supporting technology to provide a modern learning environment. Each class has a projector for projecting lessons and learning materials. The school has a gym, a PE room, an Art room, a video theatre, and dedicated science laboratories for each science subject. The school also has two ICT rooms for ICT practicals and an extra ICT room for research, and a well-equipped library. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Outdoor clubs include soccer, basketball, volleyball, netball, swimming, skating, boxing, archery, scouting, environmental activities, Tong-il moo-do, and dance. Indoor clubs include debate, programming, Presidential Awards, journalism, book club, science club, EAMUN, art, music, cooking, drama, chess, table tennis, crocheting, first aid, robotics, and digital art. The program also includes community service and cultural programs to enrich learning. | Sports facilities The school has extensive fields and a 25-metre swimming pool. The major sports for boys are cricket, hockey, rugby, and soccer, while girls participate in rounders, hockey, and netball. Other sports on offer include athletics, cross country, basketball, squash, badminton, tennis, biking, gymnastics, and swimming. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The Cambridge International Curriculum is offered from kindergarten (ages 3-5) through A-level. The British education system (IGCSE) forms the curriculum. The campus features modern facilities and technology, including classrooms and laboratories. | Academic facilities The school has modern classes with supporting technology and projectors. There is a dedicated laboratory for each science subject for research and experiments. The school has two ICT rooms for ICT practicals and an extra ICT room for research. The library is well equipped and spacious. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Outdoor clubs: soccer, basketball, volleyball, netball, swimming, skating, boxing, archery, scouting, environmental, Tong-il moo-do, and dance. Indoor clubs: debate, programming, Presidential Awards, journalism, book club, science club, EAMUN, art, music, cooking, drama, chess, table tennis, crocheting, first aid, robotics, and digital art. In addition to clubs, the program includes community service and cultural programs to enrich student life. | Extra curricular facilities The school offers extra-curricular activities including Art, Sport, Music, and the Performing arts, with Friday activities compulsory. Activities have included Scouting, Synchronised swimming, Knitting, Science clubs, Junk art, Glass painting, Squash, and Band practice. Music education includes instrument lessons (drums, violin, piano, recorder) and ensembles/bands. The Nairobi Academy Interschools Verse Speaking competition provides opportunities to perform. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Light International School Nairobi traces its roots to the Light Academy network of schools located across Kenya and operates from the Karen suburb of Nairobi in a quiet environment conducive to learning. The school offers the Cambridge International Curriculum from Kindergarten (ages 3–5) through A-level (Year 13) to students from diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds. It participates in national and international projects and competitions, including hosting the East African Round of the World Scholar's Cup and the environment-focused Golden Climate International Project Olympiad (GCIEPO), inaugurated in 2011. The school is accredited as a Cambridge International Exam Centre for IGCSE and A Levels. The motto is Access to Success and the core values are Leadership, Integrity, Good Judgement, Honour, and Trustworthiness. | History The Nairobi Academy was founded by Mr Frank Bentley in 1976. It is a coeducational school serving children aged 2–19. It is a private school following the British Curriculum and Cambridge Assessment International Education, preparing students for the IGCSE and A Level examinations, as well as the BTEC and IB Diploma Programme. We admit students from Year 8 at the age of 11+ and also cater for KCSE students who wish to pursue GCE A-Level, BTEC and IBDP. |
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Community
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Community The LIS community includes students from diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds. The school hosts and participates in international events, such as the World Scholar's Cup East Africa Round and the Golden Climate International Project Olympiad (GCIEPO), fostering intercultural exchange. Dormitories and hostels provide a home-like environment with a dorm master and staff support. The values of leadership, integrity, and social responsibility guide the school community. | Community The Nairobi Academy's school community is described as Balanced, Noble, Leaders, Engaging, Thinkers, Enquirers, and Dynamic. The school emphasizes establishing a love of learning and the whole-child approach as part of its philosophy and ethos. The school hosts events such as the Annual Science Fair (March 2026), Family Fun Day (Friday, March 13, 2026), and Year 7 & 8 Special Barbecue. Clubs and Societies include offerings such as a 3D Printing Club, reflecting a broad range of student activities. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association — | Parent teacher association — |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school offers indoor clubs including Debate, Programming, Journalism, Science Club, Book Club, Robotics, and EAMUN. Presidential Awards and Art, Music, and Digital Art are also part of the indoor program. | Academic & intellectual The Nairobi Academy offers debate and chess as part of the extracurricular program, along with a science and innovation club. Model United Nations (MUN) and a Debating Club foster research, argumentation and public speaking. Coding Club, Robotics, Drama Club and Film/Photography Club also support inquiry, creativity and problem solving. Students are encouraged to participate in at least two activities each term. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Indoor arts and creative clubs include Art, Music, Drama, and Digital Art. Crocheting and Cooking are also offered among co-curricular activities. | Arts & creative Music Club, Drama Club, and Film/Photography Club are offered as arts and creative activities. There is an Art room and a video theatre to support arts projects. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Cultural programs promote diversity and intercultural understanding through events celebrating different traditions. EAMUN is a Model United Nations club within the indoor offerings. The co-curricular program includes community service and cultural programs. | Cultural & language Model United Nations (MUN) and Debating Club promote cross-cultural communication. International trips expose students to diverse cultures across Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa. The Guest Speaker Series features professionals from diverse backgrounds, including non-traditional fields such as acting, social media influencing, art, music, dancing, drawing, farming and sculpting. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Outdoor Clubs include Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Netball, Swimming, Skating, Boxing, Archery, Scouting, Environmental, Tong-il moo-do, and Dance. Indoor Clubs include Debate, Programming, Presidential Awards, Journalism, Book Club, Science Club, EAMUN, Art, Music, Cooking, Drama, Chess, Table Tennis, Crocheting, First Aid, Robotics, and Digital Art. | Social & hobbies Games and sports are offered as part of the curriculum through PE/Games lessons and the extracurricular program, with a range including football, rugby, netball, basketball, squash, lawn tennis, rounders and table tennis; there is an equipped gym for supervised fitness training. Clubs include Model United Nations (MUN), Debating Club, Environmental Club, Music Club, Coding Club, Robotics, Drama Club and Film/Photography Club. Student-led clubs, such as First Aid Club, are encouraged to form and lead activities. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Community service is offered as part of the co-curricular program. Community service initiatives provide opportunities for students to give back to their local community and enrich the learning experience. | Community & service Year 12 and 13 students spearhead community service experiences and projects, raising funds to support charity work and scholarship funds for needy students within the neighbourhood. Community service is integrated with learning and student leadership opportunities; the school supports these initiatives. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Presidential Awards is listed among indoor clubs. Indoor clubs such as Debate, Journalism, and EAMUN provide opportunities for student leadership and organized activities. | Leadership & professional Prefects and the Students' Council provide student leadership, with elections conducted by electronic voting. The Alumni Association maintains close links with former students to offer talks, motivation and guidance. The Guest Speaker Series brings prominent professionals to speak on career paths and life choices. The Careers guidance and counselling department supports work experience opportunities, university applications and scholarship processes. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Outdoor Clubs offer Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Netball, and Swimming. Additional activities include Skating, Boxing, Archery, Scouting, Environmental initiatives, Tong-il moo-do, and Dance. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Games and sports are offered as part of the curriculum and extracurricular program, with an equipped gym for supervised fitness training. Psychosocial support and counselling help students balance academics and wellbeing. Booster sessions run after school from Tuesday to Friday to provide targeted academic support. Power Morning Sessions address gender-related issues in an informal setting, and PASS data track students' attitudes to self and school to inform interventions. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English is the language of instruction across the curriculum, with English as a First Language and English as a Second Language available. Language subjects include French (Second Language), German (Second Language), Spanish (Second Language), and Turkish (First Language). English language development is supported through ESL. Kindergarten uses IEYC with Jolly Phonics, and the Primary programme blends Cambridge Primary with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). | Language provision — |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. The school currently accepts admissions for KG1 through Year 13, with some slots limited. The curriculum is based on the British education system (IGCSE). Admission requirements should be reviewed before applying. 2. Prepare the required documents. The list includes: copy of birth certificate; two passport-sized photographs; copies of both parents' IDs; copies of both parents' KRA PIN; transfer letter from former school (if transfer) or latest report form; copy of student's passport; copy of a parent/sponsor's passport (if not Kenyan); fully signed last page of the Parents/Students Handbook; signed Drugs Policy; signed Digital Access to Success (DAS) Program Policy; duly filled subject selection form (Year 10 and 12); copy of a valid health insurance card (if applicable); copy of a pupil's pass (for foreign students); and copies of payment slips showing total amounts paid for registration, annual school fees, and term fees. Non-Kenyan citizens must apply for a pupil's pass after completion of registration. 3. Fill the application form. An application form is available via a Google Form linked for LIS Nairobi admissions. The page notes to view admission requirements before filling the form. 4. Fee terms and conditions. All fee types must be paid fully fifteen working days before the beginning of each term. School fees are payable in Kenya Shillings only. For Kindergarten to Year 10, fees are charged per term (Three Terms); for Years 11 to 13, fees are charged per term (Two Terms). Cambridge examination fees for candidate classes (Year 11, 12 & 13) must be paid by 30 January of the respective year, and Cambridge exam registrations cannot be done until the balance is cleared. The school reserves the right of admission. In Year Groups where vacancies are limited, a 50% advance payment of the tuition fee may be required as part of the First Term's fees, and this advance is nonrefundable if the place is forfeited. Sibling discounts apply: 2nd born child 5%; 3rd born child 10%; 4th born child and any other siblings 15% (the 1st born child is not entitled to a discount). When a sibling graduates or transfers, the discounts are recalculated. A full term's notice in writing and the Principal's acknowledgement in writing is required for withdrawals; otherwise a full term's fees are payable. Payment methods include bank transfer or bank deposit to the LIS bank account; cheques and cash payments are not accepted. 5. Age requirements. The school strictly follows the age groups: Nursery 3; Kindergarten 1 4; Kindergarten 2 5; Year 1 6; Year 2 7; Year 3 8; Year 4 9; Year 5 10; Year 6 11; Year 7 12; Year 8 13; Year 9 14; Year 10 15; Year 11 16; Year 12 17; Year 13 18. 6. Waiting list. If vacancies are not available immediately, students are put on a waiting list. | Admissions 1. All admissions to the School are processed through a senior member of staff. When seeking admission, prospective students are requested to provide: 1. Two copies of the birth certificate. 2. Two copies of the passport, 3. Two copies of passport photos, 4. Two subsequent previous school reports / academic transcripts, 5. School Leaving Certificate. Prospective students will also be interviewed and asked to sit an entrance placement examination. 2. Enrolment Process: A student who is interested in joining Nairobi Academy should fill the application form and make an appointment with the school for a formal interview. Prospective students not resident in Kenya should contact the school via telephone or email for further advice. 3. After passing the interview, the student will be offered an application form. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships Our school offers a few Scholarship awards at the start of each Key Stage for well deserving and highly achieving students both within and outside the school community. These Scholarships are given based on the child's academic as well as co-curricular achievement and potential. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist Waiting list is used when vacancies are not immediately available. | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
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