Admission Process

Gonzaga Preparatory and Primary School offers a well-structured and inclusive admission process designed to provide quality education to children from diverse backgrounds, with particular attention to orphans and disadvantaged families. The process reflects the school’s commitment to Jesuit values of inclusivity, academic excellence, and the formation of individuals committed to love and service.

1. General Admission Philosophy

The admission process is rooted in the school’s mission to form young people into “men and women for others.” Guided by Jesuit principles, the school welcomes students of all faiths, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds. The emphasis is on ensuring equal opportunity for education, particularly for those from underserved communities. The school seeks to:

• Educate children holistically, balancing academic, moral, spiritual, and social growth.
• Encourage inclusivity and diversity within its student body.
• Promote fairness and transparency in the admission process.

2. Eligibility Criteria

Admissions are open to both boys and girls, as Gonzaga is a co-educational institution. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Age Requirement – Admission begins with Pre-Standard One, where children are typically around 5 or 6 years old.
• Academic Readiness – Applicants must demonstrate a level of academic readiness appropriate for their desired grade level through entrance examinations.
• Religious Inclusivity – While Gonzaga is a Catholic school, students from all religious faiths are eligible for admission. The school fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding for diverse beliefs.
• Priority for Disadvantaged Students – Special priority is given to orphans and children from disadvantaged families who meet the academic requirements.

3. Application Procedure

The admission process involves several steps to ensure transparency and fairness.

• Step 1: Application Form: Application forms are available at the school’s administrative office and can be downloaded from the school’s official website. The form requires detailed information about the applicant, including personal details (name, age, and contact information), previous schooling, and family background. Parents or guardians must also submit supporting documents such as a copy of the child’s birth certificate, previous school records (if applicable), information on residence, and any other additional documentation that may be required.
• Step 2: Submission of Application: Applicants must submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the school office before the specified deadline.
• Step 3: Entrance Examination: The entrance examination evaluates the child’s academic aptitude, readiness for the desired grade level, and potential to thrive in Gonzaga’s academic environment. The examination typically includes subjects such as Mathematics, English, and Kiswahili. Exams are conducted on-site at Gonzaga Preparatory and Primary School under strict supervision to ensure fairness and integrity. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds are given support to navigate the examination process and succeed.
• Step 4: Interview: Shortlisted candidates and their parents or guardians may be invited for an interview with the school’s admission committee. The interview assesses: The child’s overall demeanor, communication skills, and motivation. The student and guardian’s alignment with the school’s values and commitment to holistic education.
• Step 5: Admission Decision: After the examination and interview, the school’s admission committee reviews all applications and makes final decisions based on: Examination performance, Interview feedback, Availability of space in the desired grade, and the school’s mission to prioritize orphans and disadvantaged children. Successful candidates are notified through phone calls, emails, or official letters.

4. Admission Fees and Scholarships

• Tuition and Fees – The school charges reasonable fees for tuition and other facilities, aligned with its mission to provide affordable, high-quality education.
• Financial Aid – Gonzaga provides scholarships and financial aid to eligible students, particularly orphans and children from disadvantaged families who excel in the entrance examination.
• Fee Structure – The detailed fee structure is included in the joining instructions, which are provided upon acceptance.

5. Inclusivity and Jesuit Mission

The admission process is aligned with the Jesuit commitment to inclusivity and justice. Gonzaga’s focus on providing opportunities for marginalized communities reflects its core values:

• Preferential Option for the Poor – By prioritizing orphans and disadvantaged students, the school embodies the Jesuit principle of care for the marginalized.
• Equal Opportunity for All – The admission process ensures that students from various religious, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds can access quality education.

6. Key Features of the Admission Process

• Transparency – Clear guidelines and timelines are provided to all applicants, ensuring a fair and open process.
• Support for Families – The school offers guidance to parents and guardians throughout the admission process, including assistance in completing forms and understanding requirements.
• Community Engagement – The school encourages parents to actively participate in their children’s education and school activities, fostering a strong sense of community.

8. Outreach and Promotion

To reach a wider audience and promote its mission, Gonzaga engages in community outreach activities. Such as: Hosting open school events where prospective students and parents can tour the campus and meet faculty, and partnering with local organizations to identify children in need of educational opportunities.

By maintaining a robust and inclusive admission process, Gonzaga Preparatory and Primary School ensures that it continues to serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for students from all walks of life. The process not only upholds the school’s commitment to academic excellence but also reinforces its dedication to forming compassionate and competent individuals who will make meaningful contributions to society.