Influence of Infrastructure on Holistic Formation of Learners in Private Boarding Primary Schools in Yatta Sub-County Machakos County, Kenya

The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of boarding private primary school life on holistic formation of learners in Yatta sub county Machakos County Kenya focusing on how infrastructure influence the holistic formation of learners in private boarding primary in Yatta sub County Machakos County and strategies to overcome the challenges mentioned. The study was anchored on Erik Erikson Theory of child development. Under mixed-method research, the study was carried out with a convergent parallel design, notably employing cross-sectional and phenomenological research designs. The researcher sampled individuals using both probability and non-probability sampling techniques. For probability the researcher employed systematic random, stratified and simple random techniques, and purposive for non-probability sampling. The study targeted 12 private boarding primary schools, 12 head teachers, 290 learners, and 12 Grade 6 class teachers. Purposive sampling was used to select four (4) schools, four (4) head teachers and (4) grade six class teachers. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to sample 87 learners as respondents. The research instruments that were utilized to collect data include a questionnaire, in-depth interview guide, and discussion guides for focus groups. The validity and reliability of the instruments were determined before any data is gathered. The researcher used both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze quantitative data with the help of SPSS Version 26 while focus group discussion and in-depth interview data were analyzed based on thematic areas. The study found out that classrooms are barely adequate, not spacious and require renovations. In addition, dining facilities were found to be inadequate and learners take meals under trees or in classrooms during the rainy season. Similarly, playgrounds were found inadequate, not leveled and have potholes. The study recommended that immediate efforts should be made to improve the adequacy and condition of school infrastructure, including classrooms, dining facilities, playgrounds, and dormitories. Investment in renovations and expansions is essential to creating a safe, supportive, and conducive environment for learning and development in addition the schools should adhere to laid down policies e.g. national health policy in schools 2018 and the regular assessment from the ministry of education to ensure that the policies are implemented to the letter Key Words: Infrastructure, Holistic, Formation, Boarding, and Private Schools