Expectations are flaring high after most senior schools across the country successfully admitted their first Grade 10 learners, marking a major milestone in the rollout of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum and opening a new chapter in Kenya’s education system.
Despite initial concerns over preparedness, the transition into senior school has largely been smooth, with institutions reporting orderly admissions and positive reception from parents and learners alike.
The Grade 10 cohort will now begin specialization under three key curriculum pathways: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); Sports and Arts; and Social Sciences.
The pathways are designed to align learning with individual strengths, interests and abilities, allowing students to build early foundations for future careers.
In Kajiado County, Merishaw School recorded a high turnout of parents during the enrollment exercise, which was conducted efficiently following clear admission procedures and structured guidelines.
The school Deputy Principal Paul Manza told journalists during a spotcheck on the process that some 420 grade 10 learners have been enrolled at the institution adding that apt preparation have been made to ensure a seamless transition and learning.
Manza noted that the boys school has invested heavily on infrastructure including modern laboratories and workshops, modern classrooms, world class sports facilities as well as dormitories.
“We are well prepared to handle the first grade 10 cohort and ensure that they receive top notch training. We have about seven laboratories, workshops for technical programmes among other facilities. Also, our 63 teachers have undergone retooling under the new CBE guidelines and are well prepared to walk the journey with the learners and ensure their success,” Manza said.
He added, “We pride ourselves as the Home of the Boy Child and we focus on science, technology, innovation, and physical education which has positioned the school as a leader in nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the future.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Ferdinand Opili, an English and Literature teacher at the school who noted that the teaching faculty is focused on imparting holistic education to the new learners, character formation, spiritual growth and developing critical thinking.
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“We aim to provide a complete educational journey, equipping the boys with skills for academic success, life, and future careers through a values-driven, supportive environment,” Opili said.
Other education stakeholders involved in the process noted that the smooth enrollment reflected improved planning and coordination compared to earlier phases of the curriculum rollout.
“We anticipated that there would be chaos in the enrollment process and as parents we were worried but it has turned out to be a different scenario, the process has been seamless and we not look forward to the success of our learners. We are optimistic that CBE will mold our kids into competitive and productive citizens,” said John Oleketola, a parent.
The parents welcomed the CBE framework, citing its learner-centred approach and emphasis on identifying and nurturing talents at an early stage.
“CBE has moved from theoretical knowledge to practical skills and application, replacing rote learning. We support it’s goals to build well-rounded, skilled individuals, even as they navigate the practical demands of the new, more involved system,” said Anne Chabs, a grade 10 parent.
The curriculum places strong focus on practical learning, enabling students to acquire hands-on, skill-based knowledge that is increasingly relevant in a fast-changing job market.
While acknowledging the presence of teething challenges such as infrastructure demands and staffing adjustments, stakeholders observed that the overall implementation of Grade 10 under CBE has been successful.
School administrators and teachers have expressed optimism that the system will better prepare learners for higher education, entrepreneurship and employment by equipping them with practical skills, creativity and critical thinking abilities.
As the pioneer Grade 10 cohort settles into senior school, education stakeholders expressed optimism that the successful enrollment signals growing confidence in the CBE curriculum and its potential to transform learning outcomes and better prepare Kenyan learners for life beyond the classroom.
By John Kamau
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