Braeburn Mombasa International School (BMIS) is a cornerstone of academic excellence among international schools in Kenya, offering a world-class education rooted in the British curriculum. Located along JCC Road in Mombasa’s Bamburi area, BMIS is part of the prestigious Braeburn Group of International Schools, which operates multiple campuses across Kenya and Tanzania. Renowned for its holistic approach, modern facilities, and diverse student community, BMIS serves students from 18 months to 18 years, delivering a globally recognized education that prepares students for top universities worldwide. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Braeburn Mombasa International School fees structure, alongside insights into its curriculum, admissions process, extracurricular offerings, and tips for expatriate families considering international schools in Mombasa.
Braeburn Mombasa International School Fees Structure (2024/2025)
The Braeburn Mombasa International School fees structure is designed to reflect the premium education and facilities provided, with costs varying by academic year and additional services like lunch and transport.
Tuition Fees by Year Group
BMIS fees are billed in three tranches (August, December, and April) for most year groups, except for Years 11, 12, and 13, which are billed in two tranches (August and December). The fees are inclusive of approved textbooks and exercise books, ensuring transparency in academic costs. Below is an illustrative fee structure for day students, in Kenyan Shillings (KES):
- Creche (18 months–2 years): KES 300,000–350,000 per year
- Early Years (Ages 2–5, Nursery to Reception): KES 358,200–500,000 per year (first-year costs may include one-time fees)
- Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2, Ages 5–7): KES 600,000–800,000 per year
- Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6, Ages 7–11): KES 800,000–1,000,000 per year
- Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9, Ages 11–14): KES 1,000,000–1,400,000 per year
- Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11, IGCSE, Ages 14–16): KES 1,400,000–1,800,000 per year
- Sixth Form (Years 12–13, A-Levels/BTEC, Ages 16–18): KES 1,800,000–2,395,800 per year
Note: First-year enrollment for a 4-year-old child is approximately KES 358,200, including one-time fees like registration and deposits. For boarding fees, contact the admissions office directly, as BMIS offers weekly boarding options.
Additional Fees
Beyond tuition, parents should budget for the following:
- Registration Fee (one-time, non-refundable): KES 20,000–50,000
- Deposit (refundable upon exit, subject to clearance): KES 50,000 (topped up if deductions are made for losses or breakages)
- Lunch Fees: KES 85,800–102,300 per year
- Transport Fees:
- Regular (fixed routes): KES 155,400 per year
- Door-to-door: KES 275,700 per year
- Activity Fees: Charged separately for specific extracurricular programs, accompanied by an official letter from the headteacher.
Discounts and Payment Policies
BMIS offers financial incentives to ease the burden on families:
- Early Payment Discount: A 3% discount on tuition fees if paid within 6 days of the due date.
- Sibling Discounts (on tuition fees):
- 2nd child: 10%
- 3rd child: 20%
- 4th child: 30%
- 5th and subsequent children: 40%
- Transport Sibling Discount: 50% for the second and each subsequent sibling on the same route.
- Late Payment Surcharge: A 1.25% monthly surcharge applies to overdue fees.
- Withdrawal Policy: A full term’s notice in writing, acknowledged by the headteacher, is required, or a full term’s fees are payable in lieu.
For precise figures and boarding costs, parents should email enquiries.bmis@braeburn.ac.ke or call +254 (0) 723 846 878.
Curriculum at Braeburn Mombasa International School
BMIS follows the British curriculum Kenya, providing a seamless educational pathway from the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to A-Levels and BTEC qualifications. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and a global perspective, making it a top choice among international schools in Mombasa. Here’s an overview of the academic stages:
- Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS, Ages 18 months–5): Focuses on literacy, numeracy, and social skills through play-based learning, incorporating the Oxford Reading Tree Scheme and specialist-taught PE, swimming, and music.
- Key Stages 1 and 2 (Years 1–6, Ages 5–11): Emphasizes core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities, with a strong foundation in inquiry-based learning.
- Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9, Ages 11–14): Broadens the curriculum to include additional subjects like foreign languages and technology, preparing students for IGCSE.
- Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11, Ages 14–16): Students pursue IGCSE qualifications, with subjects tailored to their interests and career aspirations. In 2018, 83% of BMIS students achieved A*-C grades at IGCSE.
- Sixth Form (Years 12–13, Ages 16–18): Offers A-Levels and BTEC Business courses, with 100% pass rates and 80% A*-C grades at A-Level in 2018. The school is a Cambridge International Examination Centre (CIE).
BMIS also provides limited support for students with mild learning difficulties through an in-class specialist or withdrawal sessions, decided in consultation with parents. English as a Second Language (ESL) support ensures rapid integration for non-native speakers.
Admissions Process
Enrolling at BMIS is straightforward but requires careful planning due to high demand among international schools in Kenya. The admissions process emphasizes compatibility with the school’s ethos and academic standards. Here’s how to apply:
- Schedule a Visit: Tour the campus to meet the headteacher and explore facilities. Contact +254 (0) 716 979 249 to arrange.
- Submit Application: Complete the application form available on mombasa.braeburn.com or at the admissions office.
- Provide Documentation: Include academic records, birth certificate, and passport photos.
- Assessment: Applicants may undergo an assessment to determine academic and behavioral fit.
- Fee Payment: Pay the registration fee and deposit upon acceptance.
BMIS encourages early applications, especially for boarding placements, as spaces are limited. The school’s inclusive approach welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, aligning with its reputation as a leading institution among international schools in Mombasa.
Extracurricular Activities
BMIS places a strong emphasis on holistic development, offering a wide range of extracurricular activities that complement its British curriculum Kenya framework. These programs foster teamwork, leadership, and creativity, ensuring students thrive beyond the classroom. Key offerings include:
- Sports: Swimming, basketball, tennis, soccer, and athletics, with BMIS excelling in swimming competitions.
- Performing Arts: Music, drama, and dance, supported by modern facilities like a theatre used for both school and community events.
- Clubs and Societies: STEM, environmental clubs, and community service initiatives, including marine conservation projects leveraging Mombasa’s coastal location.
- Cultural Events: Celebrations like Diwali, Halloween, and Christmas, reflecting the school’s diverse student body of over 20 nationalities.
These activities enhance the school’s appeal for families seeking well-rounded education in international schools in Mombasa.
Facilities at Braeburn Mombasa International School
The 23-acre BMIS campus is designed to optimize learning and development in a coastal setting. Key facilities include:
- Spacious, air-conditioned classrooms with modern resources
- Well-equipped science and computer labs
- Art and design studios
- Sports facilities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and soccer fields
- A large library with resources for all ages
- A 400-seat theatre for performances and community events
These amenities make BMIS a standout among international schools in Kenya, providing an environment conducive to both academic and personal growth.
Expat Guide: Choosing BMIS in Mombasa
For expatriate families relocating to Mombasa, BMIS offers a seamless transition into Kenya’s international education system. Here are key considerations for expats exploring international schools in Mombasa:
- Curriculum Alignment: The British curriculum Kenya at BMIS aligns with UK standards, easing transitions for students from British or Commonwealth systems. It also prepares students for global universities, with strong IGCSE and A-Level results.
- Cultural Diversity: With students from over 20 nationalities, BMIS fosters an inclusive environment, ideal for expat children adjusting to a new country.
- Location and Accessibility: Situated near the Mombasa-Malindi Road, BMIS is easily accessible, though Mombasa’s traffic can be challenging. Opting for school transport or living in nearby areas like Nyali can simplify logistics.
- Boarding Options: Weekly boarding is available, offering flexibility for expat families with demanding schedules or those based outside Mombasa.
- Community Engagement: BMIS encourages parental involvement through an open-door policy and events, helping expats integrate into the school community.
Expatriates should also consider visiting the campus and connecting with current parents to gauge fit, as recommended by resources like nellions.co.ke.
Comparison with Other International Schools in Kenya
While BMIS is a top choice in Mombasa, parents may also consider other international schools in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi and Kisumu:
- Nairobi IB Schools: Braeburn Garden Estate School in Nairobi offers both the IB Diploma and A-Levels, appealing to families seeking Nairobi IB schools. Its fees are comparable, ranging from KES 987,900 (Kindergarten) to KES 2,395,800 (Year 12).
- Kisumu: Braeburn Kisumu Intelligent School caters to ages 2–16, following the British curriculum with fees slightly lower than BMIS, starting at KES 300,000 for Early Years.
- Other Mombasa Options: Light International School and The Coast Academy offer British curricula but lack BMIS’s extensive facilities and accreditation.
BMIS’s coastal location, robust extracurriculars, and academic excellence make it a preferred choice for families prioritizing a comprehensive education in Mombasa.
Why Choose Braeburn Mombasa International School?
BMIS combines academic rigor with a supportive, diverse community, making it a top pick among international schools in Mombasa. Its British curriculum Kenya ensures students are well-prepared for global opportunities, while its facilities and extracurriculars foster holistic development. The school’s fee structure, though premium, is justified by its accreditations, qualified faculty, and modern resources. For expatriates and local families alike, BMIS offers a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and socially.
For more information or to schedule a visit, contact BMIS at enquiries.bmis@braeburn.ac.ke or +254 (0) 723 846 878. Explore the school’s offerings at mombasa.braeburn.com to see why it’s a leading choice for international education in Kenya.