3
2025-2026
( Left - Right : Head Girl - Thandi Muya (Jipe); Head Boy - Harnek Singh (Magadi); Head of School - Tamara Ali (Elementaita) )
Headmaster’s Introduction
Mark Durston Headmaster
As we draw this busy and fulfilling term to a close, it’s hard not to feel a sense of pride in all that has been achieved across our community. From academic milestones to creative expression, from service to sport, the term has been marked by energy, excellence, and a strong sense of purpose.
Prize Giving was a particular highlight, not only as a celebration of achievement, but also as a fitting farewell to an exceptional Upper VI. Their leadership, humour, and character will be remembered fondly, and they leave with our warmest wishes for the their journey ahead.
The Drama Competition this term was among the finest we have seen in recent years; it was ambitious, polished, and full of heart. Likewise, our Lower VI embraced the spirit of service during their community project week, working alongside and learning from local groups in ways that were both humbling and inspiring.
Our youngest year group, the Shell, took their first steps into adventure and independence during their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition and their trip to Tsavo; they are beginning to bond and build the foundation of their year group identity.
We also welcomed the talented musicians of Wheaton College, whose performances on behalf of the Rafiki Foundation brought joy to our community and a powerful reminder of music’s role in service and connection.
Finally, we celebrated our many sporting successes at the Sports Dinner, where we were honoured to be joined by Grace Okulu, who captained the national women’s team. Her message about resilience, team spirit and discipline resonated deeply with pupils and staff alike.
It has been a term rich in challenge, celebration, and growth and a true reflection of the values we strive to instill in all our pupils.
Over a hundred years ago, Taita
County was the epicentre of the First World War in East Africa
Taveta
History Trip to Taita Hills: WW1 - The Forgotten Front
The Shell pupils 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 epicentre 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. 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. Pupils 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.
◦ Snipers baobab: A German woman used the hollow baobab tree to shoot British soldiers as they tried to capture Salaita Hill
◦ 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 swimming in the pool overlooking some of the Hills. Lunch was served at Sarova Salt Lick further adding 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 a volcanic ash cone, a remnant of the 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 Vth pupils recently embarked on an exciting and enriching Geography trip to the coastal city of Mombasa. This adventure offered a fantastic opportunity for pupils to immerse themselves in the natural landscape, apply theories learned in the classroom through practical experiments, and explore how natural processes shape landscapes while understanding the role of humans in dynamic geospatial relationships. Such hands-on application of knowledge is vital in preparing them for future fieldwork techniques in their academic and professional journeys.
Guided by the IGCSE syllabus, the trip was carefully planned to align with key themes, providing pupils with valuable practical experience. The themes centred on urban settlements, coastal processes and resulting landforms, climate and natural environment, vegetation and conservation, and tourism. Through hands-on learning, pupils not only enhanced their understanding of these core concepts but also recognised the importance of teamwork in collecting dependable data. They developed skills in data analysis and evaluation, turning raw information into meaningful insights to support their judgments.
The trip's outcomes were extensive and meaningful. Pupils engaged with the local community while conducting urban surveys by counting pedestrians and vehicles, sharpening their public relations skills through interviews to evaluate the effects of tourism in Mombasa. They valued keeping towns and cities clean through a bipolar quality environmental
survey, field sketching, and transect mapping. They also learned about environmental reclamation at Haller Park and enjoyed the breathtaking coastal scenery while measuring slope angles and counting waves to assess the impact of waves on coastal areas.
A visit to the Marine Park and fringing reefs offshore provided unforgettable memories, with the highlight being the glass-bottom boat ride and snorkeling in the coral reef ecosystem, fostering a deeper appreciation of marine life and instilling a sense of environmental stewardship.
Beyond academic pursuits, pupils enjoyed the warm coastal atmosphere and lively ambience of Voyager Beach Hotel. They participated in various leisure activities, including swimming in the ocean, relaxed beach walks, and a selection of indoor games provided by the hotel's entertainment team. The all-inclusive package offered by the hotel ensured the team was well cared for with refreshing drinks, tasty snacks, and themed continental meals.
We greatly appreciate the pupils' engagement and enthusiasm throughout this trip. These experiences have enriched their academic knowledge and contributed significantly to their personal growth and development.
We look forward to sharing more enriching experiences and learning opportunities with our pupils in the future.
Jimmy C. Ogodo, Emily Litoro, and Everlyn Githiga
Europe Trip 2025
By Liz Afune (LVI - J)
At the end of Hilary term, a group of pupils embarked on a memorable arts-focused trip across Europe, visiting Vienna, Salzburg, and Paris. The journey offered a unique blend of cultural, historical, and artistic experiences that left a lasting impression on everyone involved. In Vienna, we were captivated by the city’s serene atmosphere, marked by a mix of modern and Gothic architecture. Highlights included a visit to the Mozart Haus and the interactive Haus der Musik, where we engaged with Vienna’s celebrated musical heritage. The city’s elegant streets and historic buildings gave a sense of its layered past.
The trip continued to Salzburg via a scenic drive through the snow-capped Alps. In Salzburg, we explored Mozart’s birthplace and enjoyed a guided walk through the old town’s markets and artist stalls. Visits to the Mirabell Palace gardens, made famous by ‘The Sound of Music’, and the awe-inspiring Salzburg Cathedral deepened our appreciation for the city’s cultural richness.
Paris, the final destination, was equally inspiring. Iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower and a cruise on the Seine River set the tone for an unforgettable experience. At the Louvre, we were able to view the famous Mona Lisa and other masterpieces, while the Quai-Branly Museum provided insights into non-European art. We also toured the magnificent Paris Opera House and enjoyed shopping! The trip concluded with a joyful day at Disneyland!
This European adventure allowed us to connect with diverse cultures, experience world-class art and music, and create cherished memories we will carry for life.
Shell Religious Studies Trip Big Iftar
On the 4th of June Shell pupils spent the day visiting places of worship. After a brief visit to All Saints Cathedral pupils moved onto South C where they visited two Gurdwaras, here they had the chance to hear the Akhand Path (a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib) and ate a delicious Langar lunch.
We are grateful to our hosts at All Saints Cathedral and South C Gurdwara.
On the 13th of March, Peponi School held it's 1st annual Big Iftar. Tamara Ali (LVI), Jaffar Ali (UV) and Aga Mlima (LVI) gave presentations on the history, observance and significance of the holy month of Ramadhan.
Shadan Tehrani recited a surah from the Qur'an and along with Ali Kassam (Shell) proclaimed the Adhan. This was followed by the breaking of the fast and the Iftar meal was shared by all.
Linda Gray
Teacher of Religious Studies
It’s Play Time…
A Summer Invitation from the Counsellors’ Desk
As we draw the curtain on another rich academic year, we would like to offer a reflection and a gentle challenge to our staff, pupils and parents alike. The school holidays are often framed around rest, revision, and travel. But there is one more essential ingredient we must not overlook: play.
Yes - play: even for teenagers and especially for adults.
Play is how humans explore, express, and connect. It is where stress melts away, laughter flows freely, and memories are made. It might look like fun games, unstructured exploration, hands-on hobbies, or friendly competition. It is not about outcomes, productivity, or perfection—it is about presence, connection, and joy.
Play matters for all of us (even more than you think) as it enhances emotional resilience, reduces anxiety and stress, encourages creative problem-solving, fosters deeper family connections, encourages laughter and presence and relieves the burden of routine. Play is when we are most alive and most ourselves. This summer, embrace intentional,
screen-free play through simple, joyful activities like board games, nature walks, backyard camping, family cooking challenges, creative arts and playful community gatherings.
When families create time for shared fun, they build trust, joy, and lasting memories. In our busy, tech-saturated world, play must be intentional. Do not leave it to chance or wait for boredom to set in. Prioritise it. Schedule it. Protect it. Let play be a conscious act of connection in your home. When we play, we return to joy. We rediscover one another and ourselves.
Wishing you a restful, connected, and joy-filled break.
“The opposite of play is not work. It’s depression.” — Brian Sutton-Smith
Michelle Wanjiku and Jeremiah Kuria School Counsellors
Sports Awards Dinner 2025
From the Director of Sport
Dayne Massey
2024/25... Over 450 different opportunities to represent Peponi across 12 different sports. Over 2,100 appearances from across the pupil body, involving more than 300 different pupils as they competed for the school, each taking part in their own unique way, ultimately, to do themselves, their teammates, their parents, their coaches and the School, proud.
This academic year closes with a fully packed calendar of competition behind us, marking the second full year since the return of the KAISSO Leagues and the exciting addition of the KAISSO U17 Cup competitions. While these fixtures have provided clear goals to work towards, they have offered even greater value by giving life to our Peponi Sport purpose: the opportunity to have a great game, to grow, to embrace competition, to stretch our attitudes, to enjoy the magic moments, and to reflect on life’s lessons.
Colours
Team Awardees
Junior Colours
◦ Nathan Van Aswegen (C)
◦ Teshan Waire (C)
◦ Kioko Muindi (C) Commendations
◦ Mugita Essendi (M)
◦ Reagan Kiplagat (M)
◦ Andy Ngugi (C)
◦ David Sang (C)
◦ Wayne Njoroge (C)
◦ Ivan Olal (C)
◦ Tyler Van Aswegen (C)
◦ Saveer Bij (C)
◦ Lian Song (C)
◦ Javan Tutu (C)
◦ Andre Kamau (M)
◦ Fasial Noor (M)
◦ Daniel Nalima (M)
◦ Jonathan Mutesesira (M)
Team Awardees
Junior Colours
◦ Lissa-Grian Omolo (J)
◦ Abigail Mayendit (J)
◦ Sonia Kairu (J) Commendations
◦ Petra Mwaura (E)
◦ Eden Temesgen (J)
◦ Siloe Yabeta (E)
Girls’ Basketball
◦ Gabriella Musau (E)
◦ Alana Atunda (E)
◦ Jasmine Babirye (J)
Triple Merits
◦ Flora Damian
◦ Keisha Ndonga
◦ Maia Bateman
Boys’ Rugby
Sports Awards Recipients
Best Junior Individual Performance (Girls) – Sarah Tchokech
Best Junior Individual Performance (Boys) – Saveer Bij
Best Senior Individual Performance (Girls) – Harsh Choudhery
Best Senior Individual Performance (Boys) – Dorcas Kiundi
Most Improved Junior Player (Girls) – Kathy Kimamo
Most Improved Junior Player (Boys) – Wayne Njoroge
Most Improved Senior Player (Girls) – Abba Omulen
Most Improved Senior Player (Boys) – Jasmine Nsekela
Best Junior Team Performance (Girls) – KAISSO D1 Hockey Team
Best Junior Team Performance (Boys) – U14 Boys’ Hockey Team
Best Senior Team Performance (Girls) – KAISSO D1 Netball Team
Best Senior Team Performance (Boys) – Boys’ Peponi 8-a-side A Team
Senior Contribution to Sport – Joshua Lomax
Junior Contribution to Sport – Anaya Bid
Sports Volunteer of the Year
House Sport
Event
Girls’ Athletics
Boys’ Athletics
Girls’ Basketball
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Cricket
Boys’ Cricket
Girls’ Cross Country
Boys’ Cross Country
Girls’ Football
Boys’ Football
Girls’ Hockey
Boys’ Hockey
Girls’ Netball
Boys’ Rugby
Girls’ Swimming
Boys’ Swimming
Winner(s)
Elementaita – 1st (with 143 pts)
Jipe – 2nd (with 75 pts)
Chala – 1st (with 142 pts)
Magadi – 2nd (with 125 pts)
Juniors – Jipe 9 – 0 Elementaita
Seniors – Elementaita 30 – 24 Jipe
Juniors – Magadi 44 – 16 Chala
Seniors – Magadi 38 – 32 Chala
Juniors – 96/4 – Elementaita 94/5
Seniors – Elementaita 64/1 – Jipe 61/6
Juniors – Chala 86/2 – 85/6 Magadi
Seniors – Chala 86/2 – 85/6 Magadi
Jipe – 1st (with 3,018 pts) – lowest points wins
Elementaita – 2nd (with 3,158 pts)
Magadi – 1st (with 3,383 pts) – lowest points wins
Chala – 2nd (with 3,523 pts)
Juniors – Elementaita (W)
Seniors – Elementaita 4 (P) – 3 (P) Jipe
Juniors – Magadi 5 – 2 Chala
Seniors – Magadi 2 – 0 Chala
Juniors – Jipe 3 – 0 Elementaita
Seniors – Elementaita 1 – 0 Jipe
Juniors – Chala 3 – 1 Magadi
Seniors – Chala 2 – 1 Magadi
Juniors – Elementaita 11 – 8 Jipe
Seniors – Jipe 14 – 13 Elementaita
Juniors: Magadi 15 – 12 Chala
Juniors – Jipe 276 pts – 272 pts Elementaita
Seniors – Jipe 142 pts – 132 pts Elementaita
Juniors – Magadi 324 pts – 220 pts Chala
Seniors – Magadi 183 pts – 88 pts Chala
The LVI pupils enjoyed an exciting day of team building during the second week of their Enrichment Programme. On Friday 27th June 2025, a group of over 60 pupils departed school early and travelled to the Limuru area for a day of outdoor activities designed to build teamwork and resilience.
They took part in challenges that tested their courage, balance, cooperation and ability to perform under pressure. One of the highlights was a high ropes obstacle course which culminated in a thrilling 300 metre zipline ride above the Limuru tea plantations. Accompanied by their tutors, the pupils also engaged in group activities specifically designed to strengthen group dynamics and foster deeper friendships.
It was a day filled with laughter, bonding and adventure, an opportunity for the pupils to unwind and connect in a refreshing outdoor setting.
The President's Award LVI Team Building
Peponi School has a thriving Duke of Edinburgh's International Award (President's Award) program, with pupils successfully completing various challenging Bronze level expeditions that develop resilience, teamwork, and independence. Integral to the success of these expeditions, and indeed all of Peponi's adventurous outdoor pursuits, is the mastery of navigation skills using maps and compasses.
The comprehensive navigation training taught during training is a cornerstone of the Duke of Edinburgh programme. This training empowers pupils, giving them the confidence and competence to explore safely, solve problems, connect deeply with the environment, and ultimately succeed in demanding challenges like the DofE Bronze Award, Prefect and team leadership roles, and also in undertaking major expeditions like Mt Kenya, Mt Kilimanjaro and Everest Base Camp, fulfilling the school's mission of holistic education through outdoor experience.
On Friday 9th May 2025 at Northlands a group of 25 pupils attended the Compass Pilot Program which was held on Northlands. The Year 9 and 10 pupils who attended the Compass leadership event had been the Group leaders of their teams
during their year group P.A Expeditions and had demonstrated great leadership skills and a deep understanding of the Ethos of P.A and group dynamics.
The pupils spent the day interacting with Prominent Leaders in Kenya from a variety of fields that cut across Sport, Media, Business, Government, Health among many others.
The pupils also got to interact with other young leaders from other schools, learning a range of essential life skills. As the Year closes to an end, the Shell pupils are all within reach of qualifying for their Bronze Award, having completed the requirements of the Award. Well done to the Sedge pupils.
Unless we are willing to encourage our children to reconnect with and appreciate the natural world, we cannot expect them to help protect and care for it.
‘The outdoors offers limitless potential to young children. It becomes a place where they can go to relax their mind, to be inspired and deep dive into the world of imagination. It’s a place where they can design, create and explore. The possibilities are endless’. Angela Hanscom
Eric Kanyiri Extra-Curricular
House Drama Festival 2025
A Mythical Masterpiece
This year’s annual House Drama Festival was nothing short of spectacular! With the theme of Greek Myths, each House rose to the challenge with boldness, creativity, and a deep appreciation for storytelling. We were treated to imaginative and powerful adaptations of Pandora’s Box, Theseus and the Minotaur, Medusa, and Hercules, each one bringing ancient legends to life in fresh and exciting ways.
The talent on stage was matched by the passion behind the scenes. From the moment the curtains opened, it was clear that our pupils had poured their hearts into every element - from acting and direction to the impressive costumes and props, which truly transformed the stage into a world of gods, monsters, and heroes. We were honoured to welcome three theatre industry professionals as our guest
judges, and their praise for the pupils' work was enthusiastic and heartfelt. After much deliberation, Magadi House was crowned this year’s winner - a well-deserved victory!
One of the most inspiring aspects of this year’s festival was the number of standout performances from new faces. It’s always a joy to see pupils take to the stage for the first time and completely shine. It’s safe to say that we have more talented thespians in our midst than we ever realised.
For me personally, this event was the highlight of the school year. The House Drama Festival is more than a competition — it is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and courage. Congratulations to everyone involved!
Kimberley Buckley Teacher of Drama
A Fond Farewell to Our Shell Pupils
Onwards to Lower Vth
As the academic year ends, the Sedge House community took a moment to celebrate the growth and achievements of our Shell pupils. The annual dinner was filled with pride and nostalgia as we reflected on the incredible journey these pupils have taken since their arrival.
It is hard to believe how quickly time has passed. What began as a year of new faces and uncertain steps has ended with a confident, capable, and spirited group of young individuals ready to step into Lower Vth and the Senior boarding Houses. The pupils have shown remarkable resilience, a strong sense of community, and unwavering determination.
A quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson beautifully captures what we have seen in them: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies
within us.” Indeed, each pupil holds within them the talent, strength, and potential to thrive well beyond the classroom.
As the pupils move forward, we encourage them to embrace change with a positive mindset, courage, stay true to themselves, support each other, and take bold steps beyond their comfort zones. Challenges will come, but we believe fully in their ability to face and overcome them.
To those continuing on and those moving to new environments, remember: you will always be part of the Sedge House and Peponi family.
Thank you for the memories, you have made us proud.
Here’s to your next chapter, and to a future filled with joy, discovery, and contagious laughter.
Sedge House Award Winners
The Sedge House Cup: Honouring Exemplary Pupils
This academic year, we are proud to celebrate two exceptional pupils, a boy and a girl, who have been awarded the Sedge House Cup: Eden Temesgen and Arhan Shah. These pupils exemplify the values of Sedge House and Peponi School through their consistent display of integrity, kindness, and responsibility.
Eden and Arhan are known for their sensible, caring nature and the respectful way they engage with both staff and peers. Their presence contributes positively to our school culture, and they are often seen supporting others with quiet strength and thoughtfulness.
They lead healthy, balanced lives and take personal responsibility seriously, demonstrating respect for authority, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to excellence both academically and beyond the classroom. Their honest approach to learning and their willingness to help and uplift others have made them outstanding role models.
The Sedge House Cup celebrates not just academic success, but the character, leadership, and community spirit these pupils consistently embody. Eden and Arhan have left a meaningful mark on Sedge House, and we are confident they will continue to inspire others wherever they go.
Congratulations to both recipients. You have truly made us proud.
Mary Mukule & Simon Odundo Housemistress and Housemaster, Sedge House
Lower VI Community Service Reflection
Community service was a deeply meaningful and transformative experience that helped us gain a better understanding not only of the community we served but also of ourselves. In the weeks leading up to the trip, we raised money and collected the resources we would need. This included essential items such as perishable and non-perishable foods, cement for construction, used and new tires for transport, sanitary pads for the girls, solar panels to improve electricity access, construction materials, clothing, shoes, and more. We took care to ensure the items we collected were practical and were meaningful for the children.
Upon arriving at our designated schools, we divided into teams, each responsible for specific tasks assigned each day. Over four
intense and emotionally rewarding days, we worked tirelessly to ensure every child received the items we brought and, more importantly, felt seen, valued, and loved. We distributed clothes and sweets, prepared and served hot, nutritious meals, painted the classrooms, taught in classrooms with subjects like science and math, along with creative activities such as drawing and storytelling.
Many of us, including myself, also provided grooming services. We washed the children’s hair, braided it with care, and gave basic haircuts to those who needed them. These small acts of personal care helped us form deeper, more personal connections with the children at our schools.
We learned about their daily lives, dreams, and the challenges they face growing up in under-resourced areas. Their resilience and optimism left a lasting impact on us and made the experience even more meaningful.
Throughout the journey, we developed essential life skills such as teamwork, patience, leadership, empathy, and adaptability. We learned to collaborate, communicate clearly, and step into unfamiliar roles with confidence and humility.
We are deeply grateful for the chance to make a positive impact on these incredible
children, just as they have enriched our lives with their stories, smiles, dances, songs, and spirit. This experience opened our eyes to the power of community and the importance of giving back. We’re especially thankful to the staff who guided us, the non-teaching staff who supported us, and to one another for the compassion and commitment shown throughout.
This is an experience we will never forget, and we are endlessly grateful.
David Kimani Head of Sixth Form
Honours Dinner 2025
Prize Giving 2025
Congratulations Class of 2025
