Simba International School
Simba International School Campus

Our History

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"From our humble beginnings in 1981 to the present day, we have remained committed to educational excellence."

OUR JOURNEY SINCE 1981

Simba International School is an independent, non-profit-making organisation. The school was founded in 1981, in response to parents' requests for a new and innovative approach to their children's education.

It was intended to provide a quality learning environment to children of all races, colour and creeds. That focus has never changed.

Simba International School in the early days

"In addition to the original primary school, Simba has grown to include its own Secondary School, Sixth Form and boarding house, offering a high quality British-based international education to over 500 students."

From early years to I.G.C.S.E. and A-levels, Simba provides a firm personal, social and academic foundation, underlying a broad and well-rounded curriculum. It instils in its pupils a love of learning, and a strong sense of community.

Our Founders

Founders of Simba International School

Visionaries in Education

Simba International School was founded by a group of dedicated educators and community leaders who saw the need for a school that would provide a world-class education while respecting and celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of Zambia.

Led by Dr. James Mwanza and Mrs. Elizabeth Banda, the founding team established the school with a clear vision: to create an educational institution that would prepare students to excel both locally and globally.

Their pioneering spirit and commitment to educational excellence continue to inspire our school community today, as we build upon their legacy while adapting to the changing needs of our students in the 21st century.

Our Timeline

1981

Foundation

Simba International School was founded as a primary school with just 45 students and 5 teachers.

1985

First Graduating Class

Our first class of students graduated from primary school with excellent results.

1990

Secondary School Established

The secondary school was established to provide continuity of education for our students.

1995

Cambridge Accreditation

Simba became an accredited Cambridge International Examinations Centre.

2000

Tau House Boarding

The Tau House boarding facilities were opened to accommodate students from across Zambia.

2010

Campus Expansion

Major expansion of campus facilities including new science labs, library, and sports facilities.

2015

A-Level Program

Introduction of A-Level program to provide advanced education opportunities.

2020

Digital Transformation

Implementation of comprehensive e-learning platforms and digital resources.

Historical Photo Gallery

Explore our visual journey through the years. Click on any image to view in full size.

Original School Building

1981

The original school building when Simba first opened its doors

First Graduating Class

1985

Our first graduating class celebrating their achievements

Secondary School Opening

1990

The official opening ceremony of our secondary school

Cambridge Accreditation Ceremony

1995

Receiving our Cambridge International Examinations Centre accreditation

Tau House Opening

2000

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for Tau House boarding facilities

Campus Expansion

2010

Aerial view of the expanded campus with new facilities

Mrs. Grace Mulenga

I've witnessed Simba International School grow from a small primary school to the prestigious institution it is today. Throughout this transformation, we've maintained our commitment to excellence and our focus on developing the whole child.

Mrs. Grace Mulenga

Former Head of School, 1985-2005

Our Setting

Set in beautiful garden surroundings, Simba International School has established a reputation for being one of the finest independent private schools in Zambia, with an impressive academic tradition.

Situated near the airport, in the Copperbelt city of Ndola, Simba is easily accessible to the residents of Ndola, Luanshya and Kitwe, from where the majority of our student population is drawn.

With our boarding facilities at Tau House and our excellent reputation, many of our secondary school students are from Lusaka and other far flung areas.

Simba International School Campus Gardens

Levels of Learning

Students learning at Simba International School

From Kindergarten, through IGCSE up to 'A' level, Simba provides a firm academic foundation which forms a strong platform for an international education.

This is part of our vision for Cambridge school standards which instill in our pupils a love for learning and a strong sense of community within a global setting.

Our School is widely recognised for providing educational leadership, a shared sense of purpose among staff, students, parents and the community, and establishing an environment that enables all students to enjoy the challenge and responsibilities that come with learning.

Mr. David Chanda

As an alumnus who graduated in the early years and now as a parent of a Simba student, I've seen how the school has evolved while maintaining its core values. The education I received here prepared me for success, and I'm confident my child is receiving the same quality education.

Mr. David Chanda

Alumnus and Parent, Class of 1989

The Child

At Simba International School, we aim to:

Develop Enquiring Minds

Develop in each child a mind of enquiry and thirst for knowledge.

Essential Skills

Equip each child with the necessary skills of oral competence, literacy and numeracy.

Reach Potential

Ensure that each child reaches his/her potential and becomes a valued member of society.

High Standards

Maintain a high standard outcome in all aspects of the child's work and behavior.

Nurturing Environment

Create a happy and secure environment in which each child is able to grow in self-confidence and social competence.

Affiliations

Simba School is a member of the Independent Schools Association of Zambia, which is an educationally prestigious group of more than 45 like-minded and progressive-thinking institutions that address unique challenges and opportunities inherent in proprietary school operations.

Through the ISAZ vehicle, Simba takes a leading role in providing both inter-house and inter-schools competitions and festivals in a number of competitive sports and recreational outdoor activities.

Learn more about our accreditations