Flying Kites Classroom Block

Need & Opportunity

In 2017, CfC began work with Flying Kites on a classroom block in Njabini, Kenya. It was the second phase of the two organizations’ work together in Njabini, following the dormitory.

The Flying Kites Teacher Training Center & Academy is a hub for Kenya’s public school teachers and a model school in a region where access to primary education is not guaranteed.

Solution & Value Add

The new classroom block, completed in 2018, consists of 10 classrooms. The primary design consideration was the sloping terrain of the project site. All classrooms are on the main level – to maximize natural light for student learning – and a daylight lower floor consists of a large meeting area.

The classrooms are situated around a central amphitheater outdoor learning space. Twenty-three-foot tall mahogany and glass walls encompass the amphitheater, allowing natural light to flow into the interior space. Because of the semi-alpine climate (8,000’ altitude), windows were used abundantly to maintain a heated interior.

CfC managed delivery of the 3,225 square foot classroom block, with three in-country design professionals contributing to the design. Construction took 12 months, matching the planned duration, and the building was delivered under its approved construction budget.

Project Results

• Infrastructure: A 3,225 square foot classroom block for Flying Kites in Njabini.
• Delivery: Completed in December 2018 at $195,000, against an approved construction budget of $250,000.