Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), also referred to as Competency-Based Education (CBE), represents a shift from the traditional 8-4-4 system to a more flexible, skills-oriented 2-6-3-3-3 structure. This includes:
- Pre-Primary: 2 years (PP1-PP2)
- Primary: 6 years (Grades 1-6)
- Junior School: 3 years (Grades 7-9)
- Senior School: 3 years (Grades 10-12)
- Tertiary Education: Minimum 3 years
Senior School, targeting learners aged 15-17, is the specialization phase where students transition from broad foundational learning to focused pathways aligned with their interests, aptitudes, talents, personality traits, and career aspirations. This stage prepares them for university, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), or direct entry into the workforce.
The hallmark of Senior School is the introduction of three main pathways, each divided into tracks. Pathways are chosen at the start of Grade 10, based on:
- Performance in the Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA, formerly KPSEA).
- Continuous assessments from Junior School.
- Learner interests and abilities (guided by career counseling).
- School capacity and infrastructure.
Schools are categorized by the pathways they offer:
- Triple Pathway Schools: Offer all three pathways (e.g., national schools like Alliance High or Starehe Boys).
- Double Pathway Schools: Offer two pathways.
- Single Pathway Schools: Specialize in one.
Placement is managed via the Ministry of Education’s online platform (e.g., selection.education.go.ke), where students select pathways, subject combinations, and schools. As of 2026, the first CBC cohort is transitioning into Senior School, with ongoing adjustments for equity and resource allocation.
Below, I’ll expand on each pathway, including tracks, core/elective subjects, lesson allocation, and linked careers. All learners take 4-5 core subjects (common across pathways) and 3-5 electives tailored to their track. Total weekly lessons: Approximately 45, with emphasis on practical projects, community service, and internships.
1. STEM Pathway (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
This is the most popular pathway (accounting for ~60% of placements in initial cohorts), focusing on scientific inquiry, innovation, and problem-solving. It’s ideal for analytically minded students aiming for technical careers.
- Tracks:
- Pure Sciences: Emphasizes theoretical foundations.
- Applied Sciences: Focuses on real-world applications.
- Technical and Engineering: Hands-on engineering and tech skills.
- Careers and Technology Studies: Vocational-oriented tech integration.
- Core Subjects (Compulsory for all pathways, but adapted for STEM):
- English/Kiswahili (Language)
- Mathematics (Advanced for STEM)
- Community Service Learning (Practical projects)
- Physical Education/Health Education
- Elective Subjects (Choose 3-5 based on track; ~5-7 lessons/week per subject): Subject Description Track Relevance Physics Mechanics, energy, waves All STEM tracks Chemistry Matter, reactions, lab work Pure/Applied Sciences Biology Life sciences, ecology Pure/Applied Sciences Computer Science Programming, AI, cybersecurity Technical/Engineering Aviation Technology Aerodynamics, flight systems Careers/Technology Agriculture Sustainable farming, biotech Applied Sciences Building Construction/Electricity/Power Mechanics Practical engineering Technical/Engineering Integrated Science (for lower performers) Broad intro to sciences Entry-level STEM
- Learning Outcomes: Develop critical thinking, innovation, and ethical use of technology.
- Career Links: Doctors, engineers, data scientists, pilots, architects, IT specialists, researchers. University pathways include engineering, medicine, or computer science degrees.
- Notable Details: Requires strong KJSEA scores in math/science. Schools like national institutions (e.g., Kenya High) often prioritize STEM with advanced labs.
2. Social Sciences Pathway
This pathway nurtures critical thinkers, communicators, and societal leaders, emphasizing human behavior, culture, and economics. It’s suited for students interested in people-oriented fields.
- Tracks:
- Languages and Literature: Focuses on communication and cultural studies.
- Humanities: History, geography, and social studies.
- Business Studies: Entrepreneurship and economics.
- Core Subjects: Same as above (English/Kiswahili emphasized for communication; basic Math).
- Elective Subjects (Choose 3-5; ~4-6 lessons/week per subject): Subject Description Track Relevance History and Citizenship Global/Kenyan history, governance Humanities Geography Physical/human environments, GIS Humanities Religious Education (IRE/CRE/HRE) Ethics, philosophy Humanities/Languages Literature in English/Kiswahili Creative writing, analysis Languages/Literature Business Studies Entrepreneurship, finance Business Studies Legal Studies Law, human rights Humanities/Business Foreign Languages (e.g., French, German) Global communication Languages
- Learning Outcomes: Foster empathy, ethical decision-making, and global awareness.
- Career Links: Lawyers, journalists, economists, teachers, psychologists, entrepreneurs, diplomats. Leads to degrees in law, business administration, journalism, or social work.
- Notable Details: Appeals to verbal/analytical learners. Lower entry thresholds than STEM, but requires strong language skills.
3. Arts and Sports Science Pathway
This creative and active pathway develops talents in performance, design, and athletics, integrating science (e.g., kinesiology) for professional viability.
- Tracks:
- Sports: Physical training and sports management.
- Visual Arts: Design, sculpture, digital media.
- Performing Arts: Music, dance, theater.
- Core Subjects: Same as above (Physical Education expanded).
- Elective Subjects (Choose 3-5; ~5-7 lessons/week, heavy on practicals): Subject Description Track Relevance Physical Education and Sports Training, coaching, nutrition Sports Visual Arts Drawing, painting, graphic design Visual Arts Performing Arts (Music/Dance/Theater) Composition, performance Performing Arts Home Science Textiles, nutrition (arts integration) Visual/Performing Film and Media Studies Production, editing Performing/Visual Leatherwork/Woodwork Craft-based arts Visual Arts
- Learning Outcomes: Promote creativity, teamwork, and physical/mental resilience.
- Career Links: Athletes, musicians, filmmakers, designers, coaches, event managers. Pathways to diplomas in fine arts, sports science, or media studies.
- Notable Details: Talent-based assessments (e.g., portfolios) influence placement. Schools with facilities (e.g., sports academies) excel here.
Key Implementation Aspects
- Assessment: 60% school-based (projects, portfolios), 40% national exams (Grade 12: Kenya Senior Secondary Education Assessment).
- Transition Challenges (2026 Context): Resource gaps in rural schools; Ministry extending placement reviews (e.g., Jan 6-9, 2026). Parents should use KEMIS portal for updates.
- Guidance: Schools provide career counseling; tools like the CBE Career Wheel help map pathways to jobs.
- Inclusivity: Accommodations for special needs; equity in placements across regions.
