We are the Macnamara family: Sean, Rachel, Jonah, Caleb & Anna! We met at university in Sheffield in 2007 and got married after we graduated in 2009. A few years later in October 2013 we had Jonah followed by Caleb in January 2016. Then in 2022 Anna joined us.
In 2020 we moved to Kijabe, about an hour and half outside of Nairobi, to support and develop staff at Cornerstone Preparatory Academy one of the programmes that is part of Naomi’s Village. Initially Sean was appointed Principal then after three successful years, progressed to the position of School Superintendent. After 5 years in Kenya we returned to the UK in 2025.
This website and blog documents and shares our time in Kenya.
In Proverbs 22 it talks about training a child in the way they should go and that has always been our passion. A great education opens doors, it equips and empowers people and provides access to opportunities. As teachers we are well aware of the difference education can make in creating pathways out of poverty and we long to see children educated, equipped and empowered. But we know the playing field is not level. It’s not fair and it’s not right that a number of barriers prevent some children from having the same opportunities as others. For over 15 years we have been teaching and leading in schools across London and then in Kenya tackling these issues because as Rita Pierson said- “Every child needs a champion.”
When writing to the church in Thessalonica Paul said "...we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well." (1 Thess 2:8) and that is what we want to do, we want to share our lives. We can't do this work on our own so we would love to share our lives and partner with you as we join in with what God is doing.
We are so grateful for those that partnered with us during our time in Kenya. You can still support the ongoing work through the following websites.
UK - hopebegins.org.uk
USA - naomisvillage.org
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Naomi’s Village is a holistic care organisation that positively impacts every stage of life. It is a series of programs and initiatives, including an all-through academy, bring change and redemption to the wider community. From early childhood development to college graduation and beyond, Naomi’s Village provides children of all ages the resources necessary to live a bright and fruitful life. It is holistically driven, research based and Kenyan led. You can find out more by visiting the Naomi’s Village website.
Having been a Deputy Headteacher in London and with a Masters degree in Effective Teaching and Learning, Sean was initially appointed Principal at Cornerstone Preparatory Academy. Then after three successful years, progressed to the position of School Superintendent. Rachel supported staff in various administrative roles alongside taking care of Anna. Jonah and Caleb attended school at the Rift Valley Academy.
In 2025 we returned to the UK.