About P.C.E.A KIKUYU HIGH SCHOOL

Our History

PCEA Kikuyu High School has a rich and distinguished history dating back to 1891. The institution traces its origins to the Church of Scotland Missionaries who settled at Thogoto during a time of great hardship marked by famine, drought, smallpox, and rinderpest. In response to these challenges, the missionaries established a relief camp to care for the sick and vulnerable. Alongside this humanitarian mission, they started a day school for children and evening classes for young people working at the mission station.

Early Beginnings

Temporary dormitories known as Mambere (meaning "the first") were later constructed to accommodate boys and girls seeking formal education. The early mission school aimed to instill strong Christian values while providing practical and academic education. Boys were trained in carpentry, masonry, and agriculture, while girls learned sewing and knitting. Teaching, healthcare, and personal hygiene were emphasized for all learners.

World War I Period

During the First World War (1914–1919), missionary and education activities were disrupted as many able-bodied men were recruited into the Carrier Corps. After the war, government examination systems such as the Vernacular School Examination (Standard 4) and Elementary Grade C (Standard 6) were introduced, prompting the relocation and expansion of the school to its current site.

Establishment as Secondary School

In the 1940s, changes in Kenya's education system led to the division of the institution into Kikuyu Junior School (now Musa Gitau Primary School) and Kikuyu Intermediate School, which occupied the present site of PCEA Kikuyu High School. Following Kenya's independence and further educational reforms, the intermediate section was temporarily closed.

In 1966, through the efforts of the local community and visionary leaders such as the late Rev. Crispus Kiongo, authority was granted to establish a secondary school at the former intermediate school site. This marked the birth of Kikuyu Day Secondary School, now PCEA Kikuyu High School. Mrs. C.T. John became the first principal, while Rev. Crispus Kiongo served as the first Chairman of the Board of Governors for 22 years.

Notable Alumni

Since its establishment, the school has grown into a respected learning institution, producing notable alumni including Jomo Kenyatta (first President of Kenya), distinguished clergy, scholars, professionals, and leaders who have contributed significantly to Kenya's public and private sectors.

Affiliation

Sponsored by the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA). The land was donated by the church, which also provides pastoral care and spiritual nourishment to students and staff.

Location

Located in Kikuyu Constituency, about 25 kilometres from Nairobi City. The school borders the Presbyterian University of East Africa and University of Nairobi, Kikuyu Campus in Kiambu County, Central Region of Kenya.

Ongoing Construction Projects at P.C.E.A Kikuyu