The Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) teachers’ Scheme of Service has been developed to guide the career growth of teachers in their employment by County Governments in the pre-primary sub-sector of education.
Recognized Qualifications
The following are the recognized qualifications for the purpose of the Scheme of service:
- Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) mean grade D+ (Plus) or KCE division IV from recognized equivalent from (KNEC)
- Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) with a minimum grade C (Plain) from KNEC or its recognized equivalent
- Certificate in Early Childhood Development and Education offered by KNEC/Ministry of Education or its approved equivalent
- Proficiency Certificate in Early Childhood Development and Education offered by KNEC
- Diploma in Early Childhood Development and Education offered by KNEC or its approved equivalent
- Degree in Early Childhood Development and Education offered by any accredited institution of higher learning or its approved equivalent
- A Masters of Education Degree in Early Childhood Development and Education or any other relevant Masters in Education from a recognized institution of higher learning/university
- A Certificate in Computer Applications
Implementation of the Scheme
The Scheme of service will become operational upon adoption by individual County Governments. However, the County Governments will implement the same upon the availability of financial resources.
On implementation, all trained and qualified ECDE Teachers will join the Scheme, on the condition that they meet the set minimum requirements.
Grading Structure and Scope
- Assistant ECDE Teacher II (Job Group G)
- ECDE Teacher III (Diploma Level) (Job Group H)
- Graduate ECDE Teacher III (Job Group K)
Provided that a candidate has the minimum basic qualifications prescribed for the grade in the Scheme of Service.
Employment Status
As of now, ECDE teachers are employed by County Governments.
There is a proposal for TSC to take over, but it is not confirmed yet.
Salary Scale
The salary scale varies from county to county.
For example, in Nairobi county, certificate holders earn Ksh. 33,020, diploma holders earn Ksh. 36,220, and degree holders earn Ksh. 59,770.
Minimum Qualifications for ECDE Certificate
- A Mean grade of C- (minus) in KCSE or equivalent
- Minimum of D+ with one year of relevant experience in Early Childhood program with at least a D+ in either English or Kiswahili
Conclusion
The new ECDE Scheme of Service provides a structured career path for ECDE teachers, with clear qualifications and grading structures.
While the employment status of ECDE teachers may change in the future, for now, they are employed by County Governments.
It’s essential for aspiring ECDE teachers to meet the minimum qualifications and be aware of the salary scales in different counties.
For a detailed look at the ECDE Scheme of Service, you can download the PDF below.
FAQs About the New ECDE Scheme of Service
1. What is the ECDE Scheme of Service?
The ECDE Scheme of Service is a guideline developed to govern the career progression of Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) teachers employed by County Governments in Kenya.
2. What are the recognized qualifications for ECDE teachers?
The recognized qualifications include KCSE mean grade D+ or KCE division IV, KCSE with a minimum grade C, Certificate in ECDE, Proficiency Certificate in ECDE, Diploma in ECDE, Degree in ECDE, Masters of Education in ECDE, and a Certificate in Computer Applications.
3. When will the ECDE Scheme of Service be implemented?
The Scheme will become operational upon adoption by individual County Governments, subject to the availability of financial resources.
4. How will the grading structure work for ECDE teachers?
There are different grades based on qualifications: Assistant ECDE Teacher II (Job Group G), ECDE Teacher III (Diploma Level) (Job Group H), and Graduate ECDE Teacher III (Job Group K).
5. Who employs ECDE teachers?
As of now, ECDE teachers are employed by County Governments.
There is a proposal for the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to take over, but it is not confirmed yet.
6. What is the salary scale for ECDE teachers?
The salary scale varies from county to county. For example, in Nairobi county, certificate holders earn Ksh. 33,020, diploma holders earn Ksh. 36,220, and degree holders earn Ksh. 59,770.
7. What are the minimum qualifications for an ECDE certificate?
The minimum qualifications include a mean grade of C- in KCSE or equivalent, or a minimum of D+ with one year of relevant experience in an Early Childhood program with at least a D+ in either English or Kiswahili.
8. Is there a possibility for TSC to employ ECDE teachers in the future?
There is a proposal for TSC to take over the employment of ECDE teachers, but it is not confirmed yet.
9. How long does it take to complete an ECDE degree?
A student must complete the programme within a minimum of four years and a maximum of eight years, with each unit constituting 45 contact hours.
10. Is Early Childhood Education a good course to pursue?
Yes, pursuing Early Childhood Education could lead to a fulfilling career helping young learners reap long-term benefits in their education and development.
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Mr. Weldon Kosgei, a dedicated educator with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) in Kenya, brings years of experience and a deep love for education to his role at TSCNewsToday.co.ke. He provides insightful and timely updates on TSC policies, educational trends, and best practices, making his articles valuable resources for educators and administrators. Mr. Kosgei’s commitment to enhancing education shines through in his writing, connecting and inspiring the teaching community across Kenya.
