Starehe Boys’ Centre & School

The Self-Help "Starehe Spirit": In its early years, students and staff literally built the school themselves. They made bricks, constructed buildings, and grew their own food. This ethos of self-reliance, known as the "Starehe Spirit," remains a core part of the school's identity and character formation.

A Consistent Academic Powerhouse: Starehe is perennially ranked among the top National Schools in Kenya. It has consistently been placed in the top 10 in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) rankings for decades, a testament to its academic rigor.

Home of a Legendary Music Program: The Starehe Boys' Centre Choir is a national icon, having won countless awards over the years. The centre is renowned for its outstanding choir and music department. They are a fixture at national music festivals and major state functions, known for their powerful and disciplined performances. This isn't just an extracurricular; it's a core part of their identity and a point of immense pride.

The Unique Dual-Fee Model: The school operates a revolutionary dual-fee system where a significant number of students are fully sponsored, needy boys, while others are fee-paying. This creates a unique social mix and ensures talent from all backgrounds is nurtured.

A Culture of Self-Reliance: In the spirit of its founder, Dr. Griffin, students participate in daily routines that instill discipline and self-reliance, including aspects of self-governance and maintaining their environment, building a strong sense of responsibility and community.

Leadership Factory: True to its Starehe heritage, the school is designed to produce leaders. Its alumni, known as "Old Starehians," are already making marks as top engineers, doctors, entrepreneurs, and influential professionals in Kenya and abroad, creating a powerful and supportive network.

The Starehe Mint Mark: The core ethos of Starehe is not merely academic excellence, but the development of character through service and leadership. This is encapsulated in its motto, "Once a Starehean, Always a Starehean," which speaks to a lifelong bond and responsibility to give back.

Recognition from The Queen: For its exceptional work, Starehe Boys' Centre was granted a Royal Charter by Queen Elizabeth II in 1971. This is a rare and prestigious honor for an institution outside the UK, signifying its high standards and public benefit. It is also one of the four Round Square schools in Kenya.

An Oasis in the City: Despite being located in the bustling heart of Nairobi, the school sits on a vast, green campus, providing a serene and focused environment for learning and growth; a true sanctuary for its students.