Durham International School, with campuses in Thigiri and Rosslyn, combines a 600-year British educational heritage with a modern, forward-thinking approach. Since opening in Nairobi in 2021, Durham has provided students with a balanced education built on confidence, creativity, and strong values.
Through exceptional teaching and a supportive environment, students are encouraged to think independently, challenge themselves, and grow into confident, well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.
We aim to develop a love of lifelong learning coupled with a culture of perseverance in the face of challenge so that students can flourish emotionally, socially, academically and physically. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves, think critically, explore different ways of doing things, reflect on their learning, collaborate and be team players. We believe this is fundamental in developing a child’s sense of well-being, nurturing their resilience, self-esteem, sense of respect for others and sense of social responsibility.
At Durham, we encourage students to think independently, reflect thoughtfully, and approach learning with curiosity and confidence. Beyond knowledge, we value creativity, open-mindedness, and the freedom to express ideas while developing strong problem-solving skills.
Students are challenged to grow in every aspect of school life, inspired to take risks, explore new ideas, and learn from their experiences without fear of failure.
Learning is shaped by curiosity, reflection, and the confidence to think independently. With guidance and support from teachers, every child is encouraged to ask questions, challenge themselves, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Achievement is celebrated alongside effort, perseverance, and personal growth. A willingness to embrace challenges and learn from experience helps build resilience and a lifelong love for learning.
Students are encouraged to understand their strengths, passions, and individuality while developing the confidence to shape their future with integrity. Education should inspire young people to take ownership of their choices and grow with purpose.
Beyond the classroom, essential life skills are developed through leadership, teamwork, creativity, sports, and service, preparing students to embrace opportunities with confidence and positivity.
A caring and inclusive environment helps every student feel valued, supported, and confident to flourish as an individual. Strong relationships and a sense of belonging create a positive and inspiring learning experience.
Students are encouraged to listen with empathy, share ideas thoughtfully, and collaborate with respect and integrity, developing communication, leadership, and teamwork skills for life beyond the classroom.
We provide students with a rounded education that fosters aspiration, respect, and a genuine love of learning.
Academic life sits at the heart of the school, enriched by rich opportunities in sport, music, and drama.
Within a community shaped by moral integrity and kindness, Durham aims to cultivate responsibility, respect and ambition to ensure that every student can thrive, be happy and make a positive mark in the world.
The three pillars of a Durham School which support this aim and shape the environment where students can learn and grow are:
We do this by nurturing and supporting our students to become:
We know that only happy students reach their full potential and perform well academically, so great care and support are given to ensure that all students have a positive experience and look forward to each day at school.
We have a dedicated health centre run by a qualified nurse on each campus.Healthy eating is also promoted as part of our holistic approach to wellbeing and we are proud to work with a dedicated catering team who deliver an exceptional service. They provide for those with allergies and intolerances, cultural diets and hold regular food forums with the students.
Innovative and enthusiastic educators are at the heart of our learning community, providing the framework for your child’s educational, cultural and social development.
Our management team draws on decades of experience, upholding the highest standards in British independent and international education, whilst honouring the culture, history and traditions of our Kenyan home.
