Joanna Keen

The school has 210 students, aged from 6 to 19 years, learning the same subjects as in other schools, including reading, writing, maths and science.

But the teaching here is very different, focusing on how the children learn, using visual resources and practical lessons.

Teacher Dorothy invited me into her class.

Now I see a number of materials you have here at your teacher's table could you describe to me what these materials are next to us?

As a teacher, would you say there are many schools like this in Kenya, or is it rare?

Classes are smaller than usual, with about 17 children per class.

This is paid for in part by parents and in part by charitable donations.

By the time the children finish their schooling, they'll take the same national examinations as any other child in Kenya.

It just might take them slightly longer to get there.

The school also focuses on vocational and technical training aimed at the world of work, including art and design, dressmaking, hairdressing and beauty, and agricultural skills.

One of the eldest students, 19-year-old Peter Kimani, took me on a short tour.

Where is your classroom, Peter?

My classroom is just here, next to us.

Oh, next to us here.

Okay, can we just peek in and see what's going on?

Let me see what they're learning.

We are learning chemistry.

What do you think about chemistry?

Chemistry is a bit tough, but we are fighting through it.

Peter, when did you enroll here at the school?