There was song and dance at Moi Primary School Kabarak after the school registered an excellent performance in KCPE, with the top candidate scoring 435 marks.

Apart from being the best performer, Gabriel Wanjau also led the 109 candidates in breaking the school's record by posting a mean score of 385.32, up from 379 in 2014.

Several kilometres away at Wanjau's home in Lenana Estate in Narok County, family and friends were celebrating their hero after receiving the news of his success.

Wanjau (pictured) said hard work, discipline and fear of God made him excel.

"I am really overjoyed by this sterling performance. Credit goes to God, my parents and teachers of Kabarak," said Wanjau.

The boy, who wants to be an engineer, says he is optimistic that his dream of joining Alliance High school is almost being realised.

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"Our teachers challenged us every day that we had what it takes to be the best and we believed in them. Kabarak instilled in us self-discipline and teamwork. I am glad that all this has paid off," he said.

His father, Francis Wairagu, a teacher at Ole Tipis Girls, described his son as a ferocious reader, obedient and humble.

"There is no book that I have ever brought here that Wanjau has never read. He is always keen to learn and I think that is what has made him excel," said Wairagu.

This is not the first time the school is topping the list of the best performing private schools in Rift Valley.

The top girl at the school, Agnes Anyango, scored 431 marks while 40 of her classmates scored over 400 marks. According to Anyango's mother, Melony Otieno, the 14-year-old-girl has always topped in her lower classes.

"She is not only the last born in our family but a bright and promising young girl. Since she joined school, her friends are books and this is what contributed to her success," she said.

The school's head teacher Joseph Odhiambo joined teachers to celebrate the excellent performance, which saw the lowest candidate scored 312 marks.

"This is the fruits of hard work. My boys and girls worked extra hard under difficult circumstances," he said. Odhiambo appreciated the teaching staff for their tireless efforts and sacrifice throughout the year.

He also thanked former President Daniel Moi's efforts, saying his love for education and financial assistance play a major role in their desire to make a difference in pupil's lives.