Hillcrest International School caters to students aged 18 months to 18 years, offering a seamless educational journey from Early Years to A-Levels and BTEC programs. Located along Langata Road, the school spans a 14-hectare campus, fostering a nurturing environment that emphasizes academic rigor, creativity, and personal development. As a member of the Braeburn Group, Hillcrest aligns with global educational standards, making it a top choice for both local and expatriate families in international schools in Kenya.
The school is divided into four key sections:
- Early Years: Playgroup, Nursery, Reception, and Year 1
- Preparatory School: Key Stages 1, 2, and 3 (Years 2–8)
- Secondary School: Years 9–11 (IGCSE)
- Sixth Form: Years 12–13 (A-Levels and BTEC)
This article provides a detailed breakdown of the fees, curricula, admissions, extracurriculars, and expat-specific considerations to help parents make informed decisions.
Hillcrest International School Fees Structure for 2025/2026
Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for parents considering Hillcrest. The fee structure for the 2025/2026 academic year varies by year group and includes tuition, lunch, transport, and boarding options. Below is a detailed overview based on the latest available data.
Tuition Fees and Deposits
Hillcrest’s tuition fees reflect its commitment to delivering a high-quality British curriculum in Kenya, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty. The fees are structured by year group, with a one-time deposit to secure a student’s place. Note that fees are subject to change, and parents are encouraged to contact the school for the latest policies.
| Year Group | Annual Tuition Fee (KSh) | Deposit (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Playgroup (Mornings Only) | 384,000 | 25,000 |
| Nursery (Mornings Only) | 767,400 | 25,000 |
| Nursery (Full Day) | 946,199 | 25,000 |
| FS1 (Mornings Only) | 844,200 | 25,000 |
| FS1 (Full Day) | 1,022,998 | 25,000 |
| FS2 | 1,133,700 | 25,000 |
| Year 1 | 1,317,900 | 25,000 |
| Year 2 | 1,897,200 | 50,000 |
| Years 3–5 | 2,398,200 | 50,000 |
| Year 6 | 2,466,598 | 50,000 |
| Years 7–8 | 2,574,900 | 50,000 |
| Year 9 | 2,652,900 | 100,000 |
| Years 10–11 | 2,881,500 | 100,000 |
| Years 12–13 | 3,083,099 | 100,000 |
- Deposits: These are one-time, non-refundable fees paid upon enrollment to secure a student’s place. They range from KSh 25,000 for Early Years to KSh 100,000 for Secondary and Sixth Form.
- Sibling Discounts: Hillcrest offers discounts for families with multiple children enrolled, making it more affordable for larger families.
- Payment Plans: The school may provide flexible payment options or early payment discounts, subject to confirmation with the admissions office.
Lunch Fees
Hillcrest provides a compulsory lunch program for students in Years 9 to 13, ensuring nutritious meals that support student well-being.
| Year Group | Annual Lunch Fee (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Years 9 to 13 | 133,500 |
Transport Fees
Hillcrest offers transportation services across various zones in Nairobi, catering to students from Early Years to Year 13. Fees vary based on the zone and whether the service is one-way or return.
| Year Group | Transport Type | Annual Transport Fee (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone A Return | 168,600 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone A One-Way | 101,398 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone B Return | 219,300 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone B One-Way | 131,702 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone C Return | 269,702 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone C One-Way | 162,000 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone D Return | 303,600 |
| EYFS to Year 13 | Zone D One-Way | 182,100 |
Boarding Fees
For students in Years 7 to 13, Hillcrest offers full and weekly boarding options, fostering independence and a supportive community. The boarding facilities, known as Toad Hall, include modern amenities and a nurturing environment.
| Year Group | Boarding Type | Annual Boarding Fee (KSh) | Deposit (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Years 7 to 13 | Full Boarding | 1,074,600 | 28,955 |
| Years 7 to 13 | Weekly Boarding | 681,898 | 28,955 |
- Full Boarding: Covers all days of the week, ideal for students whose families live far from Nairobi or travel frequently.
- Weekly Boarding: Allows students to return home on weekends, offering flexibility for local families.
Additional Costs
Parents should budget for additional expenses, such as:
- Extracurricular Activities: Fees for specific clubs, sports, or field trips, communicated at the start of the academic year.
- Examination Fees: For IGCSE, A-Level, and BTEC exams, costs vary depending on the number of subjects.
- Uniforms and Materials: School uniforms, textbooks, and stationery are additional costs.
For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, contact Hillcrest’s admissions office at:
- Preparatory School: +254 (0) 730 881 552, adminprep@hillcrest.ac.ke
- Secondary School: +254 (0) 730 881 192, admin@hillcrest.ac.ke
Curriculum at Hillcrest International School
Hillcrest’s adherence to the British curriculum in Kenya ensures students receive a globally recognized education, preparing them for universities and careers worldwide. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary learning.
Early Years (Ages 18 Months–5 Years)
- Focus: Play-based learning fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development.
- Programs: Playgroup, Nursery, FS1, and FS2, with options for morning or full-day sessions.
- Approach: Encourages curiosity and creativity through hands-on activities.
Preparatory School (Years 2–8)
- Key Stages 1–3: Covers core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities, alongside Kiswahili, French, and ICT.
- Holistic Development: Emphasizes academic foundations, creativity, and personal growth.
Secondary School (Years 9–11)
- IGCSE Program: Students pursue the International General Certificate of Secondary Education, a rigorous curriculum recognized globally.
- Subjects: Include sciences, humanities, languages, and electives like Art and Design Technology.
Sixth Form (Years 12–13)
- A-Levels and BTEC: Offers flexibility with A-Level subjects and BTEC programs in fields like Business and Hospitality.
- University Preparation: Comprehensive career guidance and university placement support ensure students are ready for global higher education.
Unlike some Nairobi IB schools, Hillcrest focuses exclusively on the British curriculum, which is ideal for families seeking continuity with UK-based education systems. The curriculum’s emphasis on analytical skills and subject mastery aligns with global academic standards, making Hillcrest a standout among international schools in Kenya.
Admissions Process
Enrolling at Hillcrest involves a straightforward yet thorough process to ensure a good fit for both the student and the school.
- Inquiry and Tour:
- Schedule a visit to the Karen campus for a tour or an informal chat with the headteacher.
- Contact: P.O. Box 24819, 00502 Karen, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Application:
- Submit an online application form via the school’s website (hillcrest.ac.ke).
- Provide academic records, a birth certificate, and any relevant medical or special needs documentation.
- Assessment:
- Students may undergo an entrance assessment to evaluate academic and social readiness, particularly for Preparatory and Secondary levels.
- The Immersion Program allows prospective students to spend a day or two at the school.
- Offer and Enrollment:
- Successful applicants receive an offer letter.
- Pay the non-refundable deposit to secure a place (see fee structure above).
- Orientation:
- New students participate in orientation programs to ease their transition.
The admissions team is accessible via:
- Preparatory School: +254 (0) 724 256 173, +254 (0) 717 969 450
- Secondary School: +254 (0) 724 255 444, +254 (0) 710 600 359
Extracurricular Activities
Hillcrest’s commitment to holistic education extends beyond academics, offering a robust extracurricular program that enhances student development.
- Sports: A competitive sports program includes hockey (national champions), football, swimming, tennis, and squash, supported by excellent facilities like five football pitches and a swimming pool.
- Arts and Music: Students can engage in art studios, music lessons, and drama productions, fostering creativity.
- Clubs and Societies: Options include Model United Nations, Debate Club, Robotics, and Environmental Club, encouraging leadership and teamwork.
- Field Trips and Community Service: Regular trips and service projects promote cultural awareness and social responsibility.
These activities ensure students develop well-rounded skills, making Hillcrest a leader among international schools in Kenya for extracurricular offerings.
Expat Guide to Hillcrest and International Schools in Kenya
For expatriate families relocating to Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu, choosing the right school is a priority. Hillcrest stands out for its welcoming environment and alignment with global educational standards.
Why Choose Hillcrest for Expatriates?
- British Curriculum Continuity: Ideal for families from the UK or Commonwealth countries, ensuring a smooth transition.
- Multicultural Community: With students from over 50 nationalities, Hillcrest fosters inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
- Boarding Options: Full and weekly boarding cater to expat families with frequent travel or those living outside Nairobi.
- Support Services: Language support, career guidance, and pastoral care help expat students adjust and thrive.
Comparing Hillcrest to Other International Schools
- Nairobi IB Schools: Unlike the International School of Kenya, which offers the IB Diploma, Hillcrest focuses on IGCSE and A-Levels, appealing to families preferring the British system.
- Mombasa and Kisumu Options: Braeburn schools in Mombasa and Kisumu offer similar British curriculum programs, but Hillcrest’s Nairobi location provides better access to urban amenities.
- Cost Comparison: Hillcrest’s fees are competitive with other top-tier schools like Brookhouse (KES 1,161,000–1,254,000 for Years 11–13) and the International School of Kenya (KES 2,408,500–3,642,000 for international students).
Practical Tips for Expat Families
- Visit the School: Schedule a tour to experience Hillcrest’s campus and meet faculty.
- Budget Planning: Factor in tuition, transport, boarding, and additional costs like uniforms and exam fees.
- Visa and Documentation: Ensure student visas and academic records are prepared for the admissions process.
- Community Engagement: Join parent associations or attend open weeks to connect with other expat families.
Hillcrest’s Reputation and Considerations
Hillcrest enjoys a strong reputation for academic excellence and holistic development, but recent changes in ownership have raised concerns about teaching quality among some reviewers. Despite this, the school’s affiliation with GEMS Education since 2020 has enhanced its facilities, including access to the former Cambridge International Nairobi campus. Parents praise Hillcrest’s supportive environment and diverse community, with many aspiring to enroll their children due to its prestige.
For families in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu seeking a British curriculum in Kenya, Hillcrest remains a top choice. However, parents should verify fee updates and discuss payment plans directly with the school, as costs may vary annually.
Hillcrest International School offers a world-class education rooted in the British curriculum in Kenya, making it a premier choice among international schools in Kenya. Its comprehensive fee structure for the 2025/2026 academic year, ranging from KSh 384,000 for Playgroup to KSh 3,083,099 for Years 12–13, reflects its commitment to quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, and holistic development. With robust extracurricular programs, flexible boarding options, and a supportive environment for expatriates, Hillcrest prepares students for global success.
For more information or to begin the admissions process, contact:
- Address: P.O. Box 24819, 00502 Karen, Nairobi, Kenya
- Preparatory School: adminprep@hillcrest.ac.ke
- Secondary School: admin@hillcrest.ac.ke
Whether you’re an expatriate family or a local seeking a top-tier education, Hillcrest International School provides an unparalleled foundation for your child’s future.
