Dagoretti High School is a leading extra-county boys’ secondary school located in Waithaka, Nairobi County. Founded in 1961, the school has a deep historical connection to Kenya’s struggle for educational access and self-determination. With a strong academic record and excellent co-curricular achievements, it continues to be a beacon of education in Nairobi.
History of Dagoretti High School
Dagoretti High School was initially founded in 1929 as Ruthimitu Independent School by African leaders who sought to provide education to Kenyan children in the face of colonial resistance. The school was originally situated near Eldoret and began with 170 children. However, it was soon forced to close after a backlash against African students who had been expelled from mission schools due to their support for Kikuyu traditional rites.
In 1939, the school reopened as Waithaka Independent School under the leadership of the Kikuyu Karing’a School Association (KKSA). The school’s focus was on offering education to boys from the surrounding regions, including Ruthimitu. However, the school was once again shut down in 1954 during the colonial state of emergency and was temporarily converted into a detention camp.
In 1961, the school reopened with new leadership and infrastructure, and a few months later, in 1962, it was renamed Dagoretti High School. It was officially inaugurated by Kenneth Matiba, the Permanent Secretary for Education, on September 21, 1963.
Today, Dagoretti High School stands as a symbol of resilience and excellence in education, continually evolving with modern facilities, passionate educators, and a strong academic tradition.
KCSE Performance
Dagoretti High School has a remarkable reputation for academic excellence in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). The school consistently ranks among the top 500 schools in the country, showcasing its commitment to high standards of education.
In the 2024 KCSE, Dagoretti High School had 548 candidates, with over 90% achieving the minimum university entry grade. The school’s consistent academic performance makes it one of the top choices for boys seeking quality education.
Key highlights from the 2024 KCSE performance include:
- 22 students scored a straight A
- 76 students earned A-
- 135 students achieved B+
- 119 students scored B
- 75 students earned B-
The school’s excellent performance continues to affirm its position among the best academic institutions in Nairobi County.
School Fees
As an extra-county school, Dagoretti High School falls under the Ministry of Education’s Cluster One (I) fee structure, with a fee cap set at approximately Ksh 40,535 annually. However, actual fees may vary depending on additional charges for uniforms, co-curricular activities, and other school-related costs. Some schools charge higher amounts, reaching up to Ksh 60,000 annually.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to reach out to the school directly for the most accurate and up-to-date fee details.
Location and Contacts
Dagoretti High School is conveniently located in Waithaka, within Dagoretti South Constituency, Nairobi County. The school is easily accessible from Kikuyu Road and is situated in a serene, secure environment conducive for learning.
For more information or inquiries, you can contact the school administration using the following details:
- Mobile Phone Number: +254 (0) 733643666
- Email Address: [email protected]
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 21070 – 00505, Nairobi, Kenya
- KNEC Code: 20405001
Conclusion
Dagoretti High School remains one of Nairobi County’s top-performing boys’ secondary schools, offering a rich history, a legacy of academic excellence, and a commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow. With affordable fees, a robust academic program, and excellent co-curricular activities, the school continues to provide a holistic educational experience for its students.
For more information on admissions, school fees, or KCSE results, feel free to contact the school through the provided communication channels.
