As schools across Kenya reopen today, January 5, 2026, for the start of Term One, millions of learners from pre-primary to junior secondary are returning to classrooms after the long December holiday. This marks the beginning of an exciting yet demanding academic year, particularly as the pioneer cohort under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) prepares to transition into Senior School. While most students resume learning immediately, the over 1.1 million learners completing Grade 9 will join Grade 10 in Senior School on January 12, 2026, ushering in structured pathways in STEM, Arts and Sports Science, or Social Sciences.
The phrase “parents take back teachable children” captures a light-hearted yet profound truth about the holiday season. Over the festive break, homes buzzed with energy children enjoying freedom, family gatherings, travels, and perhaps a bit more screen time or unstructured play than usual. Now, as parents drop off their young ones at school gates, they are handing back children refreshed, rested, and ready to be moulded once more by dedicated teachers. Holidays recharge families, but they can also test patience; schools provide the structure, routine, and guided learning that turn curious minds into disciplined, competent learners. Teachers receive these “teachable” versions eager (or at least settled) to absorb knowledge, develop skills, and grow under professional guidance.
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This handover is especially significant this year. The government has released over KSh 44.2 billion in capitation funds to ensure smooth operations from day one, covering primary, junior, and day secondary education. Schools are expected to adhere strictly to the calendar, with regional and county education directors monitoring compliance. For parents of Grade 10-bound learners, final preparations are underway: joining instructions are accessible via the Ministry’s placement portal, and a brief review window for placements remains open until January 9 for genuine cases.
Amid the back-to-school rush uniform shopping, fee payments, and textbook collection parents play a crucial role beyond logistics. The CBC emphasises partnership between home and school. Reinforce learning at home by discussing what children studied, encouraging reading, or linking lessons to real-life Kenyan contexts, like environmental projects or community service. Instil values of responsibility, respect, and perseverance; these make children truly “teachable.” Limit distractions, ensure adequate sleep, and provide balanced nutrition to support concentration and health.
For the pioneering Grade 10 cohort, this term sets the foundation for specialised pathways that align with talents and career aspirations. Only KICD-approved textbooks from trusted publishers like Kenya Literature Bureau, Oxford, Moran, Longhorn, and others are permitted, ensuring alignment with curriculum outcomes. As these materials cover core subjects and electives, they will foster inquiry, practical skills, and higher-order thinking essential for future success.
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Teachers, too, bear great responsibility. They transform holiday energy into focused engagement, identifying strengths, addressing gaps, and nurturing competencies. With potential challenges like staffing in technical subjects or infrastructure adjustments, collaboration with parents will be key to overcoming them.
As gates open today, let us celebrate this renewal. Parents, thank you for raising and preparing these children; now entrust them to educators who will guide their next steps. Teachers, receive these teachable young minds with enthusiasm and commitment. Together, we build not just academic excellence but ethical, innovative citizens ready to contribute to Kenya’s progress.
May the 2026 academic year be one of growth, achievement, and joy for all learners, teachers, and families.
By Ashford Kimani
Ashford Kimani teaches English and Literature in Gatundu North Sub-county and serves as Dean of Studies.
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