Looking for the best Montessori schools in Nairobi? You’re not alone. More and more parents across the city are turning to the Montessori method as a trusted, child-friendly approach to early education. Rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, this learning system is known for encouraging independence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning, values that many parents in Nairobi now see as essential in a fast-changing world.
But what exactly makes Montessori education so appealing?
At its core, the Montessori approach is child-centered. Unlike traditional classrooms where every child follows the same timetable, Montessori schools in Nairobi allow learners to move at their own pace, explore topics that genuinely interest them, and develop practical life skills from a very young age.
You’ll find mixed-age classrooms where younger children learn from older peers, and where hands-on learning materials replace worksheets and rigid schedules.
Montessori schools in Nairobi offer more than just alternative education; they provide a nurturing space where children can thrive socially, emotionally, and intellectually. It doesn’t matter whether you live in Kilimani, Karen, Westlands, or Parklands; there’s a reputable Montessori school near you, that blends the global principles of Montessori with a local understanding of what Kenyan children need most.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what to expect, how to choose the right Montessori school, and share a carefully curated list of some of the top Montessori schools in Nairobi.
Why Choose a Montessori School in Nairobi?
Choosing a Montessori school in Nairobi isn’t just about picking an education system, it’s about embracing a philosophy that nurtures the whole child.
Unlike traditional preschools and kindergartens that often rely on fixed curriculums and teacher-led instruction, Montessori schools focus on how children learn, not just what they learn. This makes a real difference, especially during a child’s early developmental years.
A Child-Centered Learning Approach
Montessori classrooms are thoughtfully prepared environments where children are free to choose their activities and work at their own pace.
Teachers act more as guides than instructors, observing and supporting each child based on their unique interests and developmental stage. In Nairobi, this approach resonates with many modern parents who want their children to grow into confident, independent thinkers, not just exam-takers.
Mixed-Age Classrooms that Build Confidence
In most Nairobi Montessori schools, children are grouped in multi-age classrooms, typically spanning three years. This setup encourages leadership in older students and inspires younger ones through peer learning. It’s a natural way to build empathy, cooperation, and communication skills, all of which are vital in today’s world.
Hands-On, Practical Learning
Montessori education emphasizes real-life skills. From pouring water and tying shoelaces to sorting shapes and learning math through tactile materials, children engage all their senses while learning. In Nairobi’s top Montessori schools, you’ll often find gardens, cooking spaces, art corners, and practical life shelves that bring learning to life.
Emphasis on Emotional and Social Growth
In the bustle of Nairobi life, many parents appreciate that Montessori schools place as much value on emotional and social development as they do on academic success. Children are taught to respect one another, resolve conflicts peacefully, and become mindful of the environment and community around them.
An Education Philosophy That Grows With Your Child
Some Montessori schools in Nairobi extend beyond preschool into primary and even upper grades, offering consistency in approach and values as children grow. For parents looking for long-term educational continuity, this is a major advantage.
How We Ranked Nairobi’s Top Montessori Schools
With dozens of Montessori schools across Nairobi, it can be overwhelming for parents to figure out which ones truly offer an authentic Montessori experience, and which simply use the name. That’s why we’ve gone beyond surface-level listings to carefully evaluate what makes a school stand out in this unique educational space.
1. Authenticity of Montessori Method
Many schools use the word Montessori in their name, but few fully implement its principles. We gave priority to schools that follow core Montessori practices, such as mixed-age classrooms, trained Montessori educators, and the use of official Montessori learning materials.
2. Montessori-Certified Staff
Qualified teachers are essential. We checked whether schools employ staff trained by recognized Montessori institutions (like AMI or MACTE-accredited programs), and if the learning environment is guided by facilitators who understand child development deeply.
3. Age Range and Continuity
Some schools only offer preschool-level education, while others extend into primary or even upper primary levels. We considered schools that provide continuity, allowing your child to grow within a consistent Montessori framework for several years.
4. Facilities and Learning Environment
Montessori is all about a prepared environment. We assessed schools based on their physical setup, indoor and outdoor learning spaces, access to nature, child-sized furniture, well-organized activity stations, and sensory materials.
5. Class Size and Individual Attention
Class size plays a big role in personalized learning. We prioritized schools that keep class sizes small to maintain close observation, tailored guidance, and minimal distraction.
6. Transparency on Fees and Admissions
Trustworthy schools are upfront about tuition fees, registration processes, and any additional costs. We highlighted schools that provide clear, accessible admissions information and support for prospective parents.
Top 5 Montessori Schools in Nairobi and Their Fees
1. Nairobi Montessori School
Nairobi Montessori School, located along Ngong Road in the serene suburb of Karen, is a top-tier Montessori institution offering a child-centered approach to education from as early as 3 months up to 14 years. Known for its authentic Montessori philosophy, NMS provides a nurturing environment that supports holistic development, independence, and lifelong learning in a mixed-age classroom setting.
The school offers a carefully structured progression through age groups:
- Nanny & Me (3–15 months)
- Toddlers (15 months–3 years)
- Pre-school & Kindergarten (3–6 years)
- Lower Elementary (6–9 years)
- Upper Elementary (9–12 years)
- Junior High (12–14 years) – following the Cambridge curriculum, launching September
With small class sizes and an excellent teacher-to-child ratio (as low as 1:6 in early years), each child receives individualized attention, which is central to Montessori education. The school also ensures that learning goes beyond the classroom by offering a rich variety of co-curricular activities, including swimming, ballet, chess, football, music, coding, and even taekwondo.
Although the exact fee structure isn’t listed publicly, parents can expect competitive private school rates typical of Nairobi’s premium Montessori institutions. Fees usually include tuition, learning resources, and some extracurriculars, with admissions open year-round depending on availability.
Parents choose Nairobi Montessori School not just for its academic quality, but for its nurturing atmosphere, strong values, and its focus on developing well-rounded, confident, and socially responsible learners.
| Nairobi Montessori School Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +254-737073873 |
| School Fees | N/A |
| Years | 1 to 8 |
| karen@elmc.co.ke | |
| Address | Ngong Road, Nairobi |
| Website | nairobimontessorischool.org |
2. Imani Montessori School
Imani Montessori School is a leading early childhood education center located in the peaceful suburb of Lavington, Nairobi. Known for its warm, inclusive, and child-focused approach, Imani offers a unique blend of authentic Montessori education and the Cambridge curriculum.
The school caters to children aged 18 months to about 7 years, guiding them through the critical foundation years with care, structure, and creativity.
At Imani, the journey begins with the Infant Program (1½–3 years), where children are introduced to practical life skills, sensory exploration, and independence in a nurturing setting.
This is followed by the Toddler and Preschool Programs (3–6 years), where learners enjoy a well-balanced curriculum that supports their intellectual, emotional, and social development. By the time they reach Year 1, students are gently transitioned into a more structured academic framework aligned with the Cambridge Key Stage 1 curriculum.
The learning environment at Imani is thoughtfully designed, featuring small class sizes, qualified Montessori-trained teachers, and hands-on materials that encourage self-directed exploration.
The school places strong emphasis on life skills, literacy, numeracy, outdoor learning, and cultural awareness, ensuring each child grows into a confident, independent learner.
With school fees starting from Ksh 450,000 per year for part-time preschoolers and up to Ksh 1,050,000 annually for Year 3 learners, Imani Montessori provides premium quality education while remaining transparent and inclusive in its pricing.
| Imani Montessori School Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +254-726 510062 |
| School Fees | N/A |
| Years | K to 3 |
| immskenya@gmail.com | |
| Address | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Website | imanimontessori.co.ke |
3. Montessori Learning Centre
Montessori Learning Centre, located in Westlands, is one of Nairobi’s most established Montessori schools and has earned a reputation for its authentic approach to the Montessori philosophy. The school serves children from the toddler years through to primary level, making it a great option for parents who want educational continuity without moving their children from one institution to another too soon.
The environment at MLC is carefully prepared to encourage independence, curiosity, and confidence. Classrooms are bright, well-organized, and stocked with genuine Montessori materials, while the outdoor spaces give children opportunities for gardening, physical play, and hands-on exploration of nature. This balance of structured and free learning ensures that children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Parents often highlight the dedication of the teaching staff, who are all Montessori-trained and focus on guiding rather than instructing. Each child is encouraged to learn at their own pace, which makes the school a good fit for families who value individualized attention.
In terms of cost, Montessori Learning Centre is among the premium options in Nairobi. Fees range between Ksh 190,000 and 305,000 per term, depending on the class level, with an additional registration fee and a refundable caution deposit required at admission.
For families seeking a high-quality Montessori education in a serene Nairobi setting, Montessori Learning Centre remains a strong contender.
| Montessori Learning Centre Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +254-728 600011 |
| School Fees | Ksh 150,000 – Ksh 450,000 per term |
| Years | K to 11 |
| info@mlckenya.com | |
| Address | Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya |
| Website | mlckenya.com |
4. Durham International School
Durham International School is one of the newer additions to Nairobi’s education landscape, having opened its doors in 2021 as the first African branch of the historic Durham School in the United Kingdom.
The school was established with the goal of combining a rich British heritage with the needs of modern learners in Kenya, creating an environment where children can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Durham admits learners as young as one year old through its early years programme, which includes Little Durham, Playgroup, FS1, and FS2. From there, children progress into primary years and lower secondary levels, following the UK curriculum with an emphasis on holistic learning and personal development.
The main campus is located in Thigiri, right next to Karura Forest, offering a calm, green setting that feels worlds apart from Nairobi’s busy city life. A second campus in Rosslyn is currently under development and is expected to feature modern classrooms, sports facilities, and creative spaces to further support both academics and extracurricular activities.
What makes Durham stand out is its strong values framework. The school emphasizes responsibility, integrity, kindness, and ambition, encouraging children not only to perform well in class but also to grow into confident, empathetic individuals.
Parents often appreciate the balance between high academic expectations and the school’s supportive, nurturing environment, where wellbeing is treated as just as important as grades.
| Durham International School Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +254-700-387426 |
| School Fees | $2,100 – $5,500 per term |
| Years | FS1 to Year 9 |
| info@durhamkenya.com | |
| Address | Thigiri, Nairobi, Kenya |
| Website | durhamkenya.com |
5. Lavington Montessori Kindergarten
Lavington Montessori Kindergarten is a welcoming early childhood school located in the quiet and leafy Lavington neighborhood of Nairobi. The school provides a calm and nurturing space where young children can begin their learning journey with confidence and curiosity.
The kindergarten follows the Montessori approach, which allows children to learn by exploring, experimenting, and working at their own pace. Programs are available for toddlers from 18 months to 3 years and for preschoolers aged 3 to 6 years.
During school holidays, the kindergarten also runs activity camps that keep children engaged through play, creativity, and discovery.
Classrooms at Lavington Montessori Kindergarten are carefully prepared to support independent learning. They are filled with hands-on materials that encourage children to develop practical life skills, language, math, and creativity in a natural way. Teachers are trained in the Montessori method and are known for their patience, attentiveness, and ability to guide each child according to their individual needs.
The school is conveniently located on Apple Cross Road, just off Mbabane Road in Lavington, making it accessible to many families in the area. Parents are welcome to visit the school, meet the teachers, and experience the learning environment before enrolling their children.
Lavington Montessori Kindergarten is well regarded by parents who value its warm atmosphere, structured programs, and focus on developing both academic and social skills from an early age.
| Lavington Montessori Kindergarten Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +254 721 601390 |
| School Fees | N/A |
| Years | 1 Years to 6 Years |
| enquiries@lavingtonmontessori.co.ke | |
| Address | Lavington, Nairobi, Kenya |
| Website | lavingtonmontessori.co.ke |
