Headmaster’s Introduction
Mark Durston Headmaster
Peponi post is designed to be a celebration of the vibrant life and remarkable achievements within our school over a period of time. This edition is no exception and despite the heavy and right focus on public examinations, there has been a great deal of other activity. As we reflect on this term's journey, I remember the words of Nelson Mandela: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." At Peponi School, we are proud to foster an environment where pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in the world. Examinations are important but it is involvement in the activities highlighted here and many many more that enable our pupils to learn about themselves and their potential in making their contribution to changing the world.
This newsletter contains many highlights from the term, showcasing the dedication and enthusiasm of our pupils and staff. The top three year groups were heavily involved in public examinations, and we wish them all the best as they await their results. Their hard work and perseverance was excellent. Many of our candidates were joined by those in more junior
years to provide genuine and original pieces of inspiration that makes up the reports in this newsletter.
Inspiration often comes to us when we least expect it. Reflecting on the challenges we face when seeking inspiration, I am reminded of the wisdom found in religious texts. The Prophets of the Bible, Torah, and Qur’an—like Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad, peace be upon them all, did not go searching for inspiration. They will have received their divine guidance in due time. For our pupils, the taking part in a concert, the deviation of thought in an examination or the change of direction on a sports pitch that leads to a goal, are all examples of inspiration arriving when we least expect it. As we navigate our own journeys, perhaps we should take a leaf out of the prophets book and allow inspiration to come to us naturally. Let us embrace the idea that our brightest ideas may come when we are least expecting them.
I hope you enjoy reading about the remarkable events and achievements of this term and I wish you all a very relaxing holiday.
The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts amassed over the years, alongside detailed displays providing insight into the scope and depth of the war.
Our journey began at the WW1 Museum at Taita Hills Resort & Spa, offering a vivid portrayal of the East African campaign.
History Trip to Taita Hills: WW1 - The Forgotten Front
The pupils of Shell embarked on a quest to uncover the mysteries of the Forgotten Front in Taita Hills. Over a hundred years ago, Taita Taveta County was the epicenter of the First World War in East Africa, triggered by the first shots fired from a police station in Taveta in August 1914, sparking an altercation between British forces in Kenya and German forces in Tanganyika. The bloody conflict resulted in thousands of deaths, widespread hunger, and disease.
This trip provided our learners with the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of soldiers and experience the harsh conditions they endured while securing key strategic positions to achieve their respective objectives. The pupils gained a profound appreciation for the legacy of the Forgotten Front, all while enjoying the picturesque views of Taita Hills and the rich diversity of flora and fauna. Moreover, the trip reinforced their understanding of the profound impacts of imperialism on the course of the war.
Our journey began at the WW1 Museum at Taita Hills Resort & Spa, offering a vivid portrayal of the East African campaign. ccPupils were particularly engaged by the exhibits showcasing weaponry, the role of the Indian army, and the African askaris.
Key Sites Visited
In addition to the museum, pupils explored several historically significant sites, including:
◦ Salaita Hill: Named from 'slaughter hill,' where the Battle of Salaita Hill in 1916 saw British attempts to dislodge Germans from their fortified position, resulting in 200 casualties.
◦ Piquet Hill: A crucial lookout defending the British Maktau camp.
◦ War Cemeteries and Memorials: Visits to Voi War Cemetery, Indian War Cemetery at Maktau, and Mashoti Memorial site provided poignant reminders of the lives lost during the war.
Beyond Academics
Beyond historical exploration, pupils enjoyed a range of leisure activities at the hotel, including football, volleyball, a bonfire, and water slides. Lunch at Sarova Salt Lick and an encounter with elephants and zebras added to the memorable experiences. A game drive into Tsavo West National Park offered pupils encounters with giraffes, elephants, diverse birdlife, and kudus. They also visited Mzima Springs, originating from Chyulu Hills, providing fresh water to the coast. The underwater glass house was a highlight, offering a glimpse of marine life through the clear spring waters. Additionally, the pupils explored the Shetani lava flows, remnants of Chyulu Hills eruptions.
We commend our pupils for their engagement, enthusiasm, and exemplary behavior throughout the trip. These experiences have not only enriched their academic knowledge but also fostered significant personal growth and development.
We eagerly anticipate sharing more enriching experiences and learning opportunities with our pupils in the future.
Everlyn Githiga, Claire Nightingale and Jimmy Ogodo
Geography Trip to Mombasa
The Lower 5th (Year 10) pupils had an exciting and enriching experience during their recent geography trip to the beautiful city of Mombasa. This trip was a fantastic opportunity for pupils to explore the real-world applications of their classroom knowledge and a crucial step in preparing them for future field research techniques in their academic and professional careers.
Guided by the IGCSE syllabus, the trip was carefully designed to align with key themes, providing our pupils with invaluable hands-on experience. The prescribed themes focused on urban settlements, coastal processes and their resultant landforms, climate and natural environment, vegetation and conservation, and tourism. This immersive experience allowed our pupils to apply their classroom learning to natural geographical settings, fostering a deeper understanding of these fundamental concepts.
The anticipated outcomes of the trip were vast and impactful. Pupils developed essential skills in data collection using sampling techniques, beach profile measurement, wave counting, questionnaires, interviews, urban transect mapping, field sketching, transect survey, and environmental assessment. Furthermore, they honed their data analysis and presentation techniques, essential for their academic and professional growth.
During their time in Mombasa, the group had the opportunity to interact with the local community within the Central Business District (CBD), engaging in interviews, completing questionnaires, and mapping streets and buildings. Additionally, they participated in a bipolar survey to assess the quality of the environment, enriching their understanding of urban dynamics and community engagement.
Beyond the academic aspects, pupils relished the warm coastal atmosphere and the vibrant ambience of Voyager Beach Hotel. They enjoyed various leisure activities, including swimming in the ocean, leisurely walks on the beach, and a range of indoor games at the hotel's animation department. The all-inclusive package offered by the hotel provided the team with refreshing drinks, mouthwatering snacks, and themed continental meals, ensuring that they were well taken care of during their stay.
The trip's highlight was undoubtedly the unforgettable glass-bottom boat ride to Mombasa Marine Park. Pupils had a remarkable experience swimming and snorkeling within the mesmerizing coral reef ecosystem. This experience provided them with a deeper appreciation of marine life and instilled in them a sense of environmental stewardship.
We immensely appreciate their engagement, enthusiasm, and exemplary behaviour throughout the trip. These experiences have not only enriched their academic knowledge but also contributed to their personal growth and development.
We look forward to sharing more of these enriching experiences and learning opportunities with our pupils in the future.
Jimmy Ogodo Academic Dean
Notes From the Music Department
At the end of May, our annual Prize-giving Day featured a range of music from our soloists, with Saiyana Pandya (Voice) singing All I Ask by Adele, Ruchi Raja (Piano) performing a Prelude by Rachmaninov and Maansi Ruparel (Voice) presenting Vienna by Billy Joel. We also had a guest performance from the Lux Aeterna Chorale Ensemble as well as the School Orchestra accompanying the National Anthem.
Every year in Trinity term, the Shell year group take part in an internal Battle of the Bands project which involves all pupils forming a band, rehearsing and finally performing their song to the rest of their class. Well done to ALL pupils for their work on this! This year’s winners were as follows:
◦ Shell A: Michelle Owor, Zuri Getonga, Zaydee Mae Ryan, Alana Atunda & Sonia Kairu
◦ Shell B: Aman Ladak, Rehan Rahim, Andy Ngugi, Azaria Wetende & Mikael Mule
◦ Shell C: Reyan Bulsara, Prem Jasani, Arav Shah, Taha Pirbhai & Armaan Suri
◦ Shell D: David Sang, Akram Gubara, Wayne Njoroge & Teshan Waire
Nairobi Orchestra, in collaboration with the Nairobi Music Society Choir and soloists, presented a landmark performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (on the 200th anniversary of its première). It featured almost 150 performers on stage all conducted by the guest conductor, Toby Purser, Head of Conducting Studies at the Royal College of Music. Both concerts were sold out.
Our inaugural hosting of the Inter-school Battle of the Bands took place on 19th June with six schools involved and nine bands. Our band featured Raahi Shah (Voice), Saneeka Haria (Electric Guitar), Dhyan Khimasia (Keyboard) & Mukiri Mugambi (Drum-kit) and performed Livin’ On A Prayer by Bon Jovi. We expect to see this event get bigger and better from now on.
The End of Year Concert on 24th June was an excellent occasion and the final musical event of the academic year. All the school ensembles featured, performing music from Bill Withers to ABBA and Rock music! Our special guest performance came from the Enkare Saxophone Quartet, who delighted the audience with their music and their moves! We were also thrilled in solo performances from Gichora Maina, Baraka Wakaba, Nathan Karauri, Kiara Kimani, Talitha Rwego, Tamara Oganga, Aria Taylor, Raahi Shah and the Lower 5th band.
Meanwhile, the Tea-time concerts continue to allow a number of our pupils to make their debuts in addition to the regular and seasoned performers. Beyond the school, the following pupils took part in the Rhythm Nation concert held towards the end of May - Prem Jasani, Ammar Jivanji, Yara Mbala and Maansi Ruparel.
James Laight Director of Music and Creative Arts
The End of Year Concert on 24th June was an excellent occasion and the final musical event of the academic year. All the school ensembles featured, performing music from Bill Withers to ABBA and Rock music!
The Diploma Cambridge Presentations 2024
The aim of the Diploma Cambridge Presentations is to encourage the Shell pupils to demonstrate their participation in a hobby or their collection of something that interests them. This year's presentations and displays were of a very high standard and the judges were impressed by the confident manner in which the pupils spoke and presented their collections or interests.
This year saw the first time that judges awarded full marks to one presenter, Diya Manji, who not only spoke knowledgeably about her collection of video games but also provided an excellent visual display with an interactive element that had the children flocking to her presentation.
Congratulations to the following pupils who were awarded a Distinction in the 2024 Cambridge Presentations:
◦ Diya Manji
◦ Shayan Savani
◦ Uddhava Jani
◦ Rehan Rahim
◦ Rohini Shah
◦ Shashwat Harish
◦ Nathan Van Aswegen
◦ Pooja Malde
◦ Veera Shah
◦ Kyle Combrinck
◦ David Sang
◦ Reyan Bulsara
Claire Nightingale
Head of Awards, Teacher of English
Biology Field Trip to Amboseli National Park
On Monday 17th June the Form II Biology class departed for a field trip to Amboseli National Park. They spent the next three days exploring the beautiful wilderness of this area, seeking out a range of wildlife and learning about biodiversity and conservation.
The summit of Mount Kilimanjaro was clearly visible throughout the trip, making for an epic backdrop and presenting some wonderful photographic opportunities. A highlight for all was getting close to one of Africa’s great ‘supertuskers’ - Craig the elephant. We spent over an hour with this gentle giant. We also saw a huge diversity of bird species as well as impressive numbers of plains mammals such as Wildebeest, Thomson’s and Grant’s Gazelles.
Shell Religious Studies Trip
The Shell pupils embarked on an exciting expedition to visit different places of worship. We went to a Sikh Gurdwara, a Hare Krishna temple, and a Buddhist temple. It was very interesting to experience different religions they had previously learnt about come to life.t the Buddhist temple, they were listened to the Head Monk explain his life's journey as a monk which started when he was 13 years old. They were also treated to a session of relaxing meditation and self-affirmations on kindness, while at the Hare Krishna they learnt about the different deities and practices and rituals, and key festivals. Lastly, at the Gurdwara, they experienced a lot of the practices they had learnt about including reading of the Guru Grant Sahib, the Ragis singing, Kara Prashad, the 5Ks, a langar meal and having a lot of question answered during the Q&A session.
Robin Backhouse Teacher of Biology
Esther Mwangi Teacher of Religious Studies
The Impact of Mentorship Building Bridges:
Over the past year, the mentorship program aimed to support Form II & Shell pupils by connecting them with mentors (Upper VI). These mentors dedicated their time to bi-weekly meetings, offering guidance on transitioning into senior school, academic matters and personal development. The result has been a transformative experience for both mentees and mentors.
Mentee Testimonials
I felt more comfortable around school.” It was very nice to hear their candid advice about certain scenarios
Mentor Testimonials
I feel I learnt a lot from my mentee. They offered a fresh perspective at times It has encouraged me to take on more leadership roles and it also improved my communication skills
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the mentors, pupils, parents, and teachers who have contributed to the success of this program. Your dedication and support have been instrumental in making this initiative a thriving endeavor.
It was good to know you had someone who was not a teacher to ask questions too
Helped me to be more confident with the year groups above me
It helped me understand people at different ages have different methods of handling situations I liked being able to offer advice that I could have used as a year 9.”
The mentorship program has not only built bridges between generations but has also laid a solid foundation for a brighter future for our pupils. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and mutual support!
Michelle Wanjiku School Counsellor
Sports Awards 2023/24
A somewhat reduced ceremony this year took place in the school Dining Hall in light of the uncertainty of the weather and subsequent floods earlier in the term. Nonetheless, we were proud that a significant proportion of the Peponi sporting cohort could gather together to celebrate the last years’ highs and reflect on the subsequent lows on the rollercoaster that is competitive sport.
Together, we had collectively raised 62,500ksh which will go towards supporting the Peponi Sports Trust, which serves to provide competitive sport opportunities, food, equipment and kit for underprivileged
groups across Kenya. It is the upcoming role of the Sports Captains to lead further development of the Trust to see that more communities can benefit from our charity.
Aside fundraising, there were a number of awards to celebrate as detailed below, and not least of those in the new ‘Unsung Heroes’ category, comprising of individual who have not been explicitly recognised through our conventional awards, but who are, nonetheless, a group of individuals who play a vital part in ensuring that Peponi Sport continues to be an admirable force within KAISSO and beyond.
2023/24 Unsung Heroes of Peponi Sport
◦ Simaveer Sagoo (athletics)
◦ Kalya Limo (athletics)
◦ Shayan Dewany (athletics)
◦ Taylor Temole-Ezaley (football)
◦ Teshan Waire (hockey, rugby, football & athletics)
◦ David Sang (hockey & rugby)
◦ Maia Bateman (hockey, netball & athletics)
◦ Harsh Choudhery (cricket)
◦ Dhruv Sumaria (cricket)
◦ Kigen Limo (basketball)
◦ Kiganzi Kiiza (basketball)
◦ Andrew Akampa (basketball)
◦ Ivan Nalima (rugby, football & golf)
◦ Shashwat Harish (golf)
◦ Rohini Shah (golf)
Best Individual Performance
◦ Michelle Sigei (junior girl)
◦ Devyn Shah (junior boy)
◦ Tara Vora (senior girl)
◦ Kai Ndubai (senior boy)
Most Improved Player
◦ Tamara Ongango (junior girl)
◦ Rian Shah (junior boy)
◦ Tiarra Ngumi (senior girl)
◦ Kiyan Shah (senior boy)
Best Team Performance
◦ U15 Girls’ KAISSO Football (junior girls)
◦ U15 Boys’ KAISSO Rugby (junior boys)
◦ U19 Girls’ KAISSO Netball (senior girls)
◦ U19 Boys’ KAISSO Cricket (senior boys)
Contribution to Sport
◦ Yzeera Sebunya (senior)
◦ Clare Ndegwa (junior)
Team of the Year
◦ Open Tennis team
Recognition of Sporting Excellence
◦ Shlok Saini (cricket – Kenya U19s in Kampala, Uganda 2024)
◦ Prinay Galaiya (cricket – Kenya U19s in Kampala, Uganda 2024)
◦ Saavir Karania (cricket – Kenya U19s in Lagos, Nigeria 2023)
◦ Muia Kasyima (netball – Kenya netball U21s in Cape Town, South Africa)
◦ Ilyaseen Nimji (squash – All Africa Games 2022)
◦ Saamanta Selvon (swimming – World Children’s Games in Seoul, South Korea)
◦ Neema Ruwa (swimming – World Children’s Games in Seoul, South Korea)
Sports Captains (2024/25)
◦ Maia Bateman (junior girl)
◦ Shashwat Harish (junior boy)
◦ Kario Karani (senior girl)
◦ Joshua Lomax (senior boy)
Sportsperson of the Year
◦ Neema Ruwa (junior girl)
◦ Mukiri Mugambi (junior boy)
◦ Muia Kasyima (senior girl)
◦ Saavir Karania (senior boy)
Girls’ U15 Basketball 2023/24
Basketball in the junior girls’ contingent continues to prosper and grow at a very competitive rate. This year we witnessed positive attitudes both against opponents and themselves during practice. The outcome of the season does not just happen by accident; they are the merely the tip of ice berg of deliberate intent, extensive planning and sustained effort by many in the sports department and across the school.
Their series of games were very competitive, bearing in mind that the players had all developed a big interest in the game following last years’ KAISSO winning campaign. The series of tournaments for the girls were kicked off by the early season tournament at St. Andrew’s, Turi, where they emerged as second runners up against Nairobi’s usual pool of competitors, plus some guest teams from various schools based in and around Nakuru & Eldoret. Following their journey up to Turi, was the second-half-of-term Hillcrest KAISSO Tournament, where our U15B team battled their way out of their pool and into the semi-final. The highest honour however, was the U15A’s admirable efforts in the KAISSO League, where we’d just scraped through to the coveted Finals Day, due to be held at Nairobi International School, by a mere margin of points difference. Despite a valiant effort, we were unable to channel our previous performances to work our way through to the Final, but we congratulate ourselves and our competitors in their convincing League title.
There were a number of top highlights from the season with all girls across both the U15A & U15B teams working towards personal progress with lots of effort, showing off some of the skills they have acquired as led so well by Captain Tiine Kiplimo, and supported by Marcia, Clare, Norma, Taylor, Alina, Amalia, Shose, Gabriella, Precious, Natasha, Tamara, Talitha and Akec just to mention a few.
On behalf of the team, we thank the school through the Director of Sport for all the support accorded to basketball teams’ endeavours for this term.
Boys’ U15 Rugby 7s 2023/24
The U15 boys’ rugby teams have showcased a huge amount of dedication and passion throughout the last season – extending as far back as January as part of their pre-season –and have always been eager to progress their individual and collective performances under the leadership of their captain, Ivan Nalima. The KAISSO season this year had been revised slightly, where the U15A team were entered into a series of four tournaments which would count towards a final KAISSO League standing. Despite a number of our Eastern conference tournament cancellations in the first half of term due to the unprecedented weather, we finish our season with pride in second place in the KAISSO League after winning the Braeburn Garden Estate tournament and taking 2nd place at our own Peponi tournament.
The U15B team also saw much success, with a squad depth exceeding 20 players at times which made for very challenging selection choices. A number of top performances against KAISSO’s best throughout the lead up to the KAISSO Tournament at Rift Valley Academy were sight to behold where much of the Shell contingent really stepped up and push the Lower Fifth for their places in the squad. The most notable performance was that of their efforts in the Peponi 7s tournament, where a moment of magic saw Wayne Njoroge score the golden try against Hillcrest, progressing the team into the finals against St. Andrew’s, Turi.
Aside the League, we all enjoyed a lot of great on and off-field success with strong performances and characters throughout the season and much notable progress as we continue to build the programme. Above all though, a fantastic team spirit has permeated the entire sports programme, catching the admiration of much of the school community as embodied so greatly by the whole team. Unfortunately, we were not able to participate in the coveted St. Andrew’s Turi 7s this year despite our mental, physical and tactical preparation in what would have been great closure to an outstanding season.
We wish the Lower Fifth well as they progress up into the senior sports programme for next year and thank them for their collective leadership of the Shell cohort.
Dayne Massey Director of Sport
Mt Kilimanjaro Report
On 3rd July Saneeka, Saiyam, Raahi, Anya, Tanya, Amani, Lily, Kemi and Ruchi together with Mr Kanyiri and Ms Sweatman embarked on a challenge to make it to the roof of Africa, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, and the highest free-standing mountain in the world at 5,895 metres above sea level. We started with a 6-hour bus ride crossing the Kenya Tanzania border at Loitokitok and a late afternoon arrival at Snowcap cottages for our first night.
After a hearty breakfast our bags were weighed, guides and porters assembled and we began our climb fully of energy with day packs on our backs. A 3 ½ hour climb, with a small lunch break, brought us to our first camp – Simba Camp. Popcorn and tea were a great treat and then we went on a short acclimatisation hike before a warm dinner.
Day 2 was an early start. With the blue skies being on our side we were able to clearly see the tip of Kilimanjaro. What a sight! We stopped for a hot lunch at the Second Caves after 3 hours of walking, before continuing to our next camp called Kikelelwa Camp. By day 2 we were already in the clouds. We arrived into a lot of fog and mist.
We were woken up on day 3 by a beautiful sunrise. Today’s hike was only a half day but it was much steeper. We were all prepared for a tough climb getting to Mawenzi Tarn Camp. That afternoon was a fun time together as we chatted and played cards before our last acclimatisation hike in the area.
Day 4 was a long walk to our final camp before summit – Kibo Hut. This trek brought us to the incredible lunar landscape saddle. The wind was quite harsh we were welcomed worryingly with hail stones. After an early dinner we headed to our tents and sleeping bags at about 6pm to try to catch as much rest as possible before being woken up at 11pm for the final ascent half asleep!
The climb to the first peak – Gilman’s Point, was the hardest thing I have ever done. It was 6 ½ hours of zig zagging up grey sandy terrain with head torches, at snail’s pace with three steps up and then one slip down. Despite being completely exhausted, fingers and feet frozen, and stops every five minutes, the guides pushed everyone to keep going and eventually the whole group made it to the first peak. This was much more about mind-set than your physical strength.
After a few photographs of the beautiful sunrise and a hot cup of tea, our guides gathered us up to keep walking to Stella Point – the second peak. The group was exhausted but mentally prepared for the final ascent. We plodded on slow step by slow step in the snow until we spotted the sign - Uhuru Peak. Exhaustion converted to elation. We enjoyed a much needed break and took a lot of photographs.
Our descent started with 3 hours of complete downhill and sliding down the slopes. Looking back up at the terrain we couldn’t believe where we had climbed just a few hours ago. After a late lunch we left Kibo Hut and made our way to Hormobo Hut, which was a further 3 hour walk. We were exhausted and after a well-deserved dinner headed to our sleeping bags for the last night on the mountain!
After packing up everything we began walking all the way down to the Marangu Gate. This itself was a tiring 7 hour walk. We walked through beautiful rainforest. From the gate we drove back to the cottages for a debrief, warm shower and proper bed. The next day 10th of July was our road trip back to Nairobi.
All in all, it was an amazing trip. Our guides and porters were very supportive. A huge amount of planning and encouragement from Mr Kanyiri and Ms Sweatman meant that we had a fun time as well as all making it to the top. This was a mental and physical challenge like no other.
LVI - Elementaita
Ruchi Raja
The Shell Diploma 2024
Throughout the year, the Shell pupils have been working hard to earn points towards their Diploma totals. The Diploma is made up of three different sections: Academics, Independent Study and Extra-Curricular Activities so points are awarded for everything that the pupils do, both in and out of school. The Diploma Assembly was held on the last day of the academic year and the Shell were rewarded for their hard work and participation in many different areas. Congratulations to all those who received Distinctions and winning positions but also to all pupils who tried something different, put their best effort into something they may have found a little difficult or made a contribution to their school and community. In this respect our pupils are all winners.
The Princeton Project -[a scientific project guided by the science department]
◦ 1st place - Ammar Jivanji
◦ 2nd place - Veera Shah
◦ 3rd place - Raahi Vora
The Headmaster's Essay - [a research essay set by the Headmaster]
◦ 1st place - Shashwat Harish
◦ 2nd place - Arav Shah
◦ 3rd place - Baarni Abdullahi
◦ 4th place - Maia Bateman
The Cambridge Presentations - [a written and oral presentation of a collection or area of interest]
◦ 1st place - Diya Manji
◦ 2nd place - Shayan Savani
◦ 3rd place - Uddhava Jani
The Academic Section of the Diploma
◦ 1st place - Arav Patel
◦ 2nd place - Maia Bateman
◦ 3rd place - Pooja Malde
The Extra-Curricular Section of the Diploma
◦ 1st place - Arav patel
◦ 2nd Place - Taha Pirbhai
◦ 3rd place - Shashwat Harish
Overall Diploma Winners
◦ 1st place - Nathan Karauri
◦ 2nd place - Maia Bateman
◦ 3rd place - Taha Pirbhai
Claire Nightingale
Head of Awards, Teacher of English
Lower VI Prefects Training Day
In preparation for next year, our newly-appointed Lower VI Prefects embarked on a Prefects Training Day at Norcos, Sagana as part of their Enrichment Programme. Led by Sofia, Shlok, Pasha and their team, and after breakfast bitings, the day started with some food for thought in terms of Leadership skills: through the use of balloons, cups, balls and a lectern, our aspiring Prefects learned how to prioritise and balance one’s everyday school life with additional responsibilities; learned how to spot a younger pupil who may wish to talk; and learned how to present oneself through public speaking. The Prefects’ Team jelled and were
encouraged to initiate different mediums for getting across crucial messages re bullying, substance abuse and mental well-being - a busy start to the day…
After lunch, it was an afternoon outside engaging in team building exercises involving everything from dance to water carrying. Clear Sounds Entertainment led the course excellently, ensuring that fun was had and important features of leadership were remembered by all. The pupils were left in no doubt about both the privilege and responsibility awaiting them in their Upper VIth year. Well done all.
Karl Cook Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Message from the Gap Students
Orlando Stirling
This incredible opportunity came to me a year ago upon leaving school in the UK, Radley college. Planning my gap year travels was always based upon finding unique experiences and exploring different continents. Working at Peponi for the last 3 months has introduced me to exactly that. I have enjoyed many surreal experiences right from the start in Kenya. Firstly, spending my mornings away from the school at a children’s home in Ruiru was a fulfilling experience, seeing the joy we brought to the children’s day to day lives was mirrored on the community service trip we recently joined the lower VI on, to Naro Moru where we delivered supplies generously donated by the pupils.
Jack Cotterell
“ Joining Orlando from Radley College, UK, Jack also immersed himself into all things Peponi, together with a few extras. Having never worked in Africa before, Jack settled into life within our community seamlessly: active within many aspects of our sports dept, especially football, he demonstrated an easy and respectful relationship with our pupils. He also was a strong and invaluable presence at Ndini school
This wonderful country has also led me to be very adventurous, stepping out of my comfort zone to take on the coaching of the under 15 B team rugby to success across many tournaments across the season. Or more drastically climbing Mt Kenya, truly the highlight of my time here. I will be attending the University of Exeter to Study Politics this coming September, although I trust that studying back home in the UK won’t keep me from re-visiting Kenya soon. Thank you to all the amazing staff for welcoming us and for their continued generosity and finally to the all the pupils who so eagerly got involved in school life with us, I wish you all the best of luck in the future.
in the mornings, as well as supporting Peponi on its more far-reaching expeditions to Amboseli, Tsavo and, of course, succeeding in his own personal ambition to climb Mt Kenya. He leaves us, with a wealth of memories and our best wishes, in preparation for study at Newcastle University in the UK to read Politics. “
Sedge House Award Winners
Sedge House Dinner
“It has been a remarkable academic year full of achievements. Reflecting on the journey from the Michaelmas term, many have transformed from shy and unsure to confident individuals. Your unique voices and contributions are valuable and the world awaits them. Pursue your dreams with determination and never let anyone dim your light.
Embrace your future adventures with confidence, cherish relationships, seize opportunities, and trust in your abilities. Life's journey is about enjoying each step and becoming the incredible person you are meant to be.
Maya Angelou said, "You are the sum total of everything you’ve ever seen, heard, eaten, smelled, been told, forgot — it’s all there. Everything influences each of us, and because of that I try to make sure that my experiences are positive." Let your light shine brightly.
I am honoured to be part of your journey and will support you every step of the way.
Sedge House Award
The Sedge House award goes to two individuals, a boy and a girl, who, in their first year of transition to secondary school life, have embodied or personified Peponi School's Vision, Mission, and Purpose.
These two pupils are consistent in mutual respect, goodness to all, determination to excel, and unique confidence. They have demonstrated and chosen to live a life of progress and growth.
These pupils are warm and comforting individuals who care about others. They have a sense of humour yet are intellectual.
They are great role models to their peers and are set to inspire the greatness of personal growth.”
This year, we are proud to announce that the winners of the Sedge House award are Mia Bateman and Nathan Karauri. Both Maya and Nathat have shown exceptional qualities and have truly embodied the spirit of Peponi School. Their contributions and achievements are a testament to their dedication and character, and we look forward to seeing their continued growth and impact in our school community.
Mary Mukule Housemistress of Sedge House
Lower VI Community Service Reflection
Community Service has been an unforgettable experience, far exceeding my expectations. Initially assigned to the kitchen, we quickly mastered vegetable chopping despite the initial chaos. Serving beans, noodles, and ugali turned out to be therapeutic. One highlight was distributing items to children at Bahati Junior Academy. Their joy at receiving school supplies, toys, clothes, and food was priceless. It underscored how the things we take for granted are cherished by others. We also built and painted classrooms and desks, which was hard work but deeply rewarding. The evenings were filled with bonding over card games like
Mafia at the lodge, creating lasting memories.
A memorable moment was the children’s performance at the end of our visit. Their enthusiasm and joy were contagious, and their tears at our departure showed the impact we had.
This trip taught me the value of privilege, the impact of small gestures, and the essence of giving and receiving. It highlighted the importance of community, patience, perseverance, and the joy of making a positive impact. Overall, it was a heartwarming, eye-opening adventure, rich in learning and growth.
Aarav Patel
LVI - Chala
As cliché as it may sound, the Community Service trip has been a life-changing experience for me. Each day that we served the children break, danced alongside them, sang with them, and on the final day cried with them, filled my heart with utmost joy and fulfilment.
In the months leading up to our trip, conducting, organising, and collecting donations as a member of the committee has not been easy, but it definitely has been worth it. We as a whole year group have built desks, painted classrooms, taught lessons, set up two new classrooms, and even funded the construction of a new bathroom complex. Together, we have managed to make a lasting impact despite only being there a few days, and it is no doubt this experience has also left a lasting impact on us.
Split into three groups, we each tackled our own journeys in making a significant impact on each school. Kihato School, Bahati School, and the Children’s Home welcomed us like their own and shared their daily culture, giving us the opportunity to share lunch together, build notable connections, and embrace one another.
Throughout the entire experience, the children in Naro Moru enjoyed a snippet of the luxuries we enjoy every single day. This has led me to realise that we are far more privileged than we can even begin to understand, and I am now far more grateful for everything I own. I’ve come to appreciate the simplest things in life, such as my health and well-being, as well as the security of knowing where my next meal will come from.
Seeing how these children have far less than us yet still display more happiness than we do has brought me to understand that life is not about the things we can put a value to but rather about the things that are priceless, such as the love, compassion, and generosity we feel from those around us. It’s the simple things like feeling cared for by people you’ve never even met before.
I have learnt to be more considerate, humble, and appreciative in all the circumstances I may be put to face. It has truly been an eye-opening experience that will stick with me for many years to come.
Netania Mwaura
LVI - Elementaita
3
2024-2025
( Left - Right : Head Boy - Shlok Saini (Magadi); Head of School - Sofia Ejuku-Ejalu (Elementaita); Head Girl - Pasha Haria (Elementaita) )
A Journey to Excellence
Embark on "A Journey to Excellence" with Peponi Schools. This video encapsulates the essence of our schools’ commitment to nurturing academic achievement, fostering pastoral care, and empowering our pupils to become active participants in their educational journey. From our dedicated faculty to our outstanding pupils, see how we cultivate a culture of excellence every day. Join us in celebrating the milestones and future aspirations of Peponi Schools.
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