About Hillcrest International - Preparatory

Hillcrest International Schools – Primary (incorporating Hillcrest Early Years and Hillcrest Preparatory) is a premier British International School located in the leafy suburb of Karen, Nairobi. Established in 1965, Hillcrest has a long-standing reputation as a center of academic and creative excellence. Now a proud member of the Braeburn Group of International Schools, we provide a seamless educational journey for children from 18 months to 13 years (Year 8). Our mission is to inspire, encourage, and empower every child to achieve their personal excellence as valuable members of a truly global community, representing over 50 nationalities.

Values, Vision, and Foundational Ethos 💎
Hillcrest is defined by its inclusive philosophy and a deep-rooted commitment to fostering character and independence in every student.

A Heritage of Inclusion: Built on a philosophy of inclusion, cooperation, and mutual respect, Hillcrest nurtures socially responsible young citizens who are confident in their own identities.

Core Values (R.C.I.D): Our school culture is driven by four key pillars:

Respect: For ourselves, each other, our community, and the environment.

Curiosity: To discover, explore, and develop personal interests and unique strengths.

Independence: Developing self-motivation and the purposefulness to learn independently.

Determination: Striving to achieve one’s best in all spheres of life.

Global Citizenship: We celebrate our multicultural community, fostering empathy and compassion through local community engagement and international awareness.

Personalized Attention: Our small class sizes allow for an individualized approach, ensuring that every child’s development is monitored and supported by dedicated mentors.

📚 Curriculum Approach: The British National Curriculum & Holistic Growth
Hillcrest Primary follows the National Curriculum for England, enriched with a global perspective that makes learning relevant to our vibrant location in Kenya and Africa.

Early Years (HEY): For children aged 18 months to 6 years, we use a thematic, play-based approach. Learning is organized into broad concepts that touch on science, math, and the arts, encouraging natural curiosity and hands-on discovery.

Preparatory School (Years 2–8): We follow the British Curriculum through Key Stages 1, 2, and 3. In Years 7 and 8, we integrate the Common Entrance syllabus, ensuring a rigorous foundation for the transition to secondary school.

Balanced & Inquiry-Based: Our curriculum balances core academics (English, Math, Science) with weekly time dedicated to Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music, and PE. Project-based learning is central to our pedagogy, encouraging students to explore areas of personal interest in depth.

Language Learning: To prepare students for a global stage, all pupils learn French and Kiswahili starting from Year 2, focusing on building early communication confidence.

Learning Support: We recognize that every child is unique. Our Learning Support Department provides tailored assistance for students with specific learning needs, as well as “Stretch and Fly” programs for Gifted and Talented learners.

Access Full School Information
Hillcrest International Schools – Primary provides a world-class British education that balances academic rigour with creativity and sports, ensuring your child becomes a confident, well-adjusted global citizen.

To view the specific school facilities, current tuition fees, and detailed information on the full range of co-curricular activities, please upgrade your Soma Afrika subscription today!