NAIROBI — Lenana School has temporarily released all students following disturbances that broke out during evening prep sessions, prompting school administrators to suspend learning and send learners home while investigations and assessments are carried out.

In a notice issued to parents and guardians, the school's Board of Management and administration said the decision was taken to restore calm and allow officials to evaluate what happened before classes resume.

"Following the restlessness and disturbance experienced during preps in the school last night, the Board of Management and the school administration have resolved to temporarily release all students to allow for restoration of normalcy and a comprehensive assessment of the situation," the notice said.

The announcement led to parents and guardians arriving at the school from early morning to collect their children. School officials directed that students leave only in the company of a parent, guardian or authorised representative.

"You are therefore requested to pick your son from the school at 8:00 a.m. today," the administration said. "Kindly ensure that all students leave the school compound accompanied by a parent, guardian, or an authorised representative."

The school did not disclose the nature of the disturbances or whether any injuries or property damage had been reported. Officials said a detailed assessment would be conducted before a decision is made on when students can return.

The move comes amid heightened public attention on student safety and discipline in Kenyan boarding schools following several recent incidents that have raised concerns among parents and education stakeholders.

For many families, the sudden closure brought uncertainty and concern, with parents seeking answers about what led to the unrest and how the school plans to prevent similar incidents in the future.

School management sought to reassure families that further communication would follow once the review process is complete.

"Further communication regarding the reporting date and subsequent arrangements will be provided in due course," the notice said.

The administration also apologised for the disruption and thanked parents for their cooperation during the unexpected closure.

"We regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding, cooperation, and continued support during this period," the school said.

As students returned home, attention turned to the school's ongoing assessment and the measures that may be introduced before learning resumes. For now, families are waiting for answers and a clearer picture of what unfolded during the night that brought activity at one of Kenya's best-known schools to an abrupt halt.