Cavina School, a prestigious British-curriculum preparatory school in Nairobi, Kenya, has been a cornerstone of quality education since its founding in 1950. Located along Elgeyo Marakwet Road in the serene Kilimani area, Cavina offers a nurturing environment for children aged 2 to 13, blending academic excellence with Christian values and holistic development. As one of Kenya’s oldest international-curriculum schools, Cavina is renowned for its small class sizes, personalized attention, and a curriculum that prepares students for secondary education both locally and abroad.
This article provides an in-depth look at Cavina School’s fees structure for the academic year, contact details, admission process, and more.
Why Choose Cavina School?
Cavina School stands out as a premier choice for parents seeking a values-driven, academically rigorous education for their children. Here are some key reasons why Cavina is a top pick:
- British Curriculum Excellence: Cavina follows the Common Entrance Syllabus, preparing students for entry into prestigious secondary schools in Kenya and the UK.
- Holistic Development: The school emphasizes intellectual, spiritual, and emotional growth, fostering well-rounded individuals through academics, sports, and extracurricular activities.
- Small Class Sizes: With a maximum of 25 students per class (and fewer in senior years), Cavina ensures personalized attention for each learner.
- Christian Values: Morning chapel devotions and a focus on integrity and respect shape students’ character.
- Sibling Discounts: Families with multiple children benefit from tuition fee discounts, making Cavina accessible to larger families.
Cavina School Fees Structure
Cavina School’s fees structure for the academic year, effective from Michaelmas 2024, is designed to reflect the high-quality education and facilities provided. Fees are charged per term, with three terms per academic year. Below is a detailed breakdown of tuition fees by age group and class level, followed by additional costs and policies.
Tuition Fees Per Term
| Age Range | Cavina Years | Other Schools’ Years | Tuition Fees (KSh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 – 3 Years | Playgroup | Baby Class | 112,500 |
| 3 – 4 Years | PP I | Kindergarten | 151,100 |
| 4 – 5 Years | PP II | Kindergarten | 209,200 |
| 5 – 6 Years | PP III | Year 1 | 250,100 |
| 6 – 7 Years | Form I | Year 2 | 307,000 |
| 7 – 8 Years | Form II | Year 3 | 307,000 |
| 8 – 9 Years | Form III | Year 4 | 325,200 |
| 9 – 10 Years | Form IV | Year 5 | 362,700 |
| 10 – 11 Years | Form V | Year 6 | 362,700 |
| 11 – 12 Years | Lower VI | Year 7 | 362,700 |
| 12 – 13 Years | Upper VI | Year 8 | 362,700 |
| 13+ Years | CE Exams | – | Contact School |
Note: Fees for the Common Entrance (CE) Exams for students aged 13+ are not publicly listed and require direct inquiry with the school.
Sibling Discounts
Cavina School offers sibling discounts on tuition fees to support families with multiple children enrolled, starting from PP I:
- Second Child: 5% discount
- Third Child: 10% discount
- Fourth Child: 15% discount
These discounts apply only to tuition fees and not to additional costs like lunches or ambulance services.
Additional Fees
In addition to tuition, parents should budget for the following one-time and recurring costs:
| Item | Amount (KSh) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee | 7,500 | Non-refundable, due at application |
| Deposit Fee | Full term’s tuition fee | Non-refundable if the place is not taken up, required to secure admission |
| Ambulance Service (AAR Fee) | 1,000 per term | Mandatory for all students |
| Lunch Fees | ||
| – Playgroup | 18,200 per term | Optional for Playgroup |
| – Pre-Prep Unit (PP I–III) | 20,000 per term | Compulsory |
| – Preparatory School (Form I–Upper VI) | 24,000 per term | Compulsory |
Withdrawal Policy
Parents wishing to withdraw their child must provide one full term’s written notice, acknowledged by the headmaster. Failure to provide notice requires payment of one term’s tuition fee in lieu.
Total Cost Estimate Per Year
To illustrate, here’s an estimated annual cost for a student in Form IV (9–10 years, Year 5) with no sibling discounts:
- Tuition Fees: KSh 362,700 × 3 terms = KSh 1,088,100
- Lunch Fees: KSh 24,000 × 3 terms = KSh 72,000
- Ambulance Service: KSh 1,000 × 3 terms = KSh 3,000
- Total (excluding one-time fees): KSh 1,163,100
- One-Time Fees (First Year):
- Registration Fee: KSh 7,500
- Deposit Fee: KSh 362,700
- Total First-Year Cost: KSh 1,533,300
Families with multiple children can reduce costs through sibling discounts, and early payment may offer additional savings.
Admission Process at Cavina School
Cavina School’s admission process is competitive, prioritizing siblings and early applicants, with a focus on balancing class diversity (e.g., gender ratios). The main intake is in Playgroup, with limited spaces in other years due to small class sizes.
Steps to Apply
- Submit an Inquiry:
- Contact the admissions registrar, Jackie Ndugwa, via email at admissions@cavina.ac.ke or use the inquiry tab on the school website (www.cavina.ac.ke).
- Schedule a school tour to explore facilities and meet staff. Tours are held regularly, with exceptions for families outside Kenya.
- Application Submission:
- Complete the application form and pay the non-refundable KSh 7,500 registration fee.
- Submit required documents, including a birth certificate, residence proof, and photographs of the child and parents/guardians. Students aged 5+ must write a brief personal statement.
- Evaluation:
- Prospective students may undergo assessments to gauge readiness for Cavina’s curriculum. Parents should prepare their child for basic concepts and a relaxed assessment experience.
- Admission Offer:
- Upon successful evaluation, parents receive an admission offer and must pay a full term’s tuition fee as a non-refundable deposit to secure the spot.
- Onboarding:
- New students participate in orientation sessions to familiarize themselves with the school environment, ensuring a smooth transition.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Early: Priority is given to siblings and early applicants, especially for Playgroup, which has a maximum of 25 places annually.
- Prepare for Assessments: Familiarize your child with basic academic concepts to boost confidence during evaluations.
- Attend Tours: Visiting the campus helps parents and children feel comfortable with the school’s environment and values.
Contact Information for Cavina School
For inquiries, applications, or to schedule a tour, reach out to Cavina School through the following channels:
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 43090-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- Telephone: +254 20 3866011, +254 20 3877079, +254 20 2573630
- Mobile: +254 706 232334, +254 708 387746
- Email: admin@cavina.ac.ke, admissions@cavina.ac.ke
- Website: www.cavina.ac.ke
The admissions team is responsive and encourages parents to call or email for personalized assistance.
Curriculum and Educational Approach
Cavina School follows the British National Curriculum, specifically the Common Entrance Syllabus, preparing students for secondary education in Kenya and the UK. The curriculum emphasizes:
- Core Subjects: Maths, English, French, Science, British History, Geography, Writing, and Latin.
- Additional Subjects: Computer science, art, music, physical education, and performing arts.
- Extracurricular Activities: Sports (cricket, football, hockey, netball, tennis, swimming), music, and drama, with access to a local sports club for facilities.
- Christian Foundation: Daily chapel devotions and a focus on values like integrity and respect shape students’ character.
The school’s Pre-Prep Unit (ages 3–6) focuses on play-based learning, transitioning to formal education in later years. Senior students (Upper VI) take on leadership roles as prefects or house captains, preparing them for secondary school challenges.
Facilities and Campus Life
Cavina School’s campus in Kilimani offers modern classrooms, a swimming complex, and access to a nearby sports club with cricket fields, football pitches, and tennis courts. The school fosters a close-knit community, with:
- Small Class Sizes: Maximum of 23–25 students per class, ensuring individualized attention.
- Sports Program: Comprehensive, with inter-house and inter-school competitions.
- Christian Assemblies: Daily devotions reinforce the school’s values.
- Extracurricular Engagement: Art, music, and drama clubs encourage creativity and self-expression.
While Cavina is a day school, its location in Nairobi’s Kilimani area ensures easy access for families in the city.
Financial Planning Tips for Parents
Enrolling a child at Cavina School is a significant investment. Here are some tips to manage costs:
- Leverage Sibling Discounts: Families with multiple children can save significantly on tuition fees.
- Budget for Additional Costs: Include lunch fees, uniforms, and extracurricular activities in your financial plan.
- Pay Fees on Time: Avoid potential penalties by settling fees by the first day of the term. Contact the school for payment options (e.g., bank transfers, MPesa).
- Plan for Withdrawal: Provide written notice one term in advance to avoid additional fees.
Why Choose an International Curriculum?
Cavina’s British curriculum offers a global perspective, preparing students for higher education opportunities worldwide. Unlike Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), the British system emphasizes critical thinking, research, and a broad subject base, making it ideal for families aiming for international secondary schools or universities. The school’s 4.7-star rating reflects its reputation for quality education and a supportive community.
Clarification on Related Schools
Note that Cavina School in Nairobi is distinct from institutions like Carlo Cavina School in Bangalore, India, or Don Carlo Cavina School in the Philippines, which are affiliated with different educational systems and organizations. This article focuses solely on Cavina School in Nairobi.
Cavina School is a beacon of academic excellence, Christian values, and holistic development in Nairobi. With a competitive fees structure, sibling discounts, and a robust British curriculum, it offers a premium education for children aged 2–13. The school’s small class sizes, modern facilities, and dedicated staff ensure students are well-prepared for future academic and personal success.
Ready to enroll your child? Contact Cavina School at admissions@cavina.ac.ke or +254 708 387746 to schedule a tour or begin the application process. Visit www.cavina.ac.ke for more details on admissions, curriculum, and school life.
