Clay International Secondary School.

Clay International Secondary School.

Clay International Secondary School stands as a beacon of hope in rural Kenya, offering a transformative educational experience to the underprivileged children of Ngomano. With a mission to create a success-oriented, free, and sustainable school, Clay School has been instrumental in enriching the lives of the region’s poorest children.The roots of Clay School trace back to 2004 when three compassionate American women, Debra Akre, Jeanna King, and Andy Clay, came together under the banner of PEI (Project Education Inc). Driven by a passion to advance education in rural Kenya, they embarked on a journey that would change countless lives. Their collaboration found an ally in Benson Mutua, a native of Ngomano, who welcomed them to his childhood village.   Through engaging discussions with the local community, a visionary partnership was forged, leading to the establishment of a secondary school that would redefine education in the area. This school, unlike any other, would be private, coeducational, and free of fees. Generously supported by donors, it was built from the ground up, fully equipped with modern facilities. Clay School’s commitment extended beyond academic excellence to encompass the holistic well-being of its students. Embracing a unique approach, Clay School’s teaching staff, consisting of dedicated Kenyan faculty, provide a nurturing environment that addresses all aspects of the children’s development. The aim is to empower students with knowledge, skills, and values that will serve them well beyond the classroom. A strong emphasis is placed on instilling a sense of self-confidence, critical thinking, and leadership qualities among the students.   To bring their vision to life, the Clay Foundation invested in the acquisition of 25 acres of land in Ngomano, which served as the foundation for the school’s sprawling campus. In 2005, the doors of Clay School opened for the first time, welcoming eager local children who were ready to seize the opportunities that education could offer. Through the combined efforts of external donors and the active involvement of the community, Clay School became a thriving center of learning. Beyond academics, Clay School also focused on enhancing the sustainability of the community. Initiatives were implemented to improve water sourcing and farming practices, aligning with Benson Mutua’s vision of empowering individuals to become self-sufficient. Clay School truly embodied the adage of teaching people how to fish, rather than simply providing them with fish.   In recognition of their invaluable contributions, the school was later named Clay International Secondary School, honoring its major benefactors and founders, Andy and Jim Clay. Their unwavering commitment to the cause has transformed the lives of countless children, opening doors to a brighter future.