The Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) has ushered in a transformative era in Kenyan education, replacing the longstanding 8-4-4 system.
Spearheaded by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) under the leadership of President Uhuru Kenyatta and Education Cabinet Secretary, Professor George Magoha, the CBC is not just an educational shift but a comprehensive change in how students approach learning.
Let’s delve into the genesis of CBC in Kenya, its historical context, and the intricacies of its 2-6-3-3-3 education cycle.
The Evolution of Kenya’s Education System
7-4-2-3 System (1963-1985)
The formal education journey in Kenya began with the 7-4-2-3 system under British Colonial rule in 1963.
It encompassed 7 years of primary school, 4 years of lower secondary school, 2 years of upper secondary school, and a minimum of 3 years in university education.
8-4-4 System (1985-2017)
In 1985, Kenya transitioned to the 8-4-4 system, comprising 8 years of primary school, 4 years of secondary school, and a minimum of 4 years in university education.
Competency Based Curriculum (2017-Present)
The current educational landscape, marked by the CBC, was introduced in 2017.
This innovative 2-6-3-3-3 system consists of 2 years in pre-primary education, 6 years in primary education, 3 years in junior secondary education, 3 years in senior secondary education, and a minimum of 3 years in university education.
Understanding the CBC Education System
CBC Structure: 2-6-3-3-3 Education Cycle
The CBC encompasses a 2-6-3-3-3 education cycle, with each learner transitioning through a minimum of 17 levels, each spanning one year.
These levels are categorized into four stages:
- Early Year Education (EYE): Pre-Primary & Lower Primary
- Pre-Primary
- PP1 (Pre-Primary 1)
- PP2 (Pre-Primary 2)
- Lower Primary (Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3)
- Pre-Primary
- Middle School: Upper Primary & Lower Secondary
- Upper Primary (Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6)
- Lower Secondary (Grade 7, Grade 8, Grade 9)
- Senior School: Upper Secondary
- Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12
- Tertiary Education: TVET or University
- Depending on career choices, students can opt for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) or pursue university education.
Navigating Early Year Education (EYE)
Pre-Primary
The Pre-Primary phase spans two years, with learners entering the education system at a minimum age of 4.
PP1 and PP2 replace the traditional Nursery stage, with a preceding optional year in Day-Care.
Lower Primary
Following Pre-Primary, learners progress to the Grade level, covering Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3.
The transition to Middle School is determined by a combination of class-based assessments and an exam by the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC).
Embarking on Middle School
Upper Primary
Comprising Grade 4, Grade 5, and Grade 6, the Upper Primary stage concludes with a KNEC assessment to gauge readiness for Lower Secondary.
Junior Secondary
This stage, encompassing Grade 7, Grade 8, and Grade 9, culminates in a KNEC assessment to assess readiness for Senior School.
Specialization in Senior School
Career Choices
Senior School marks the beginning of specialization based on career choices.
Categories include Arts & Sports Sciences, Social Sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Grade 10-12
Learners progress through Grade 10, Grade 11, and Grade 12, honing their skills and aligning with their chosen career paths.
Tertiary Education: University or TVET
University Education
For those opting for university education, a minimum of 3 years is dedicated to tertiary learning.
Some careers may require longer time frames.
TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is an alternative path, equipping students with practical skills for specific careers.
Conclusion
The CBC in Kenya marks a significant departure from traditional education, emphasizing competency-based learning.
Understanding its genesis, structure, and stages is crucial for students, parents, and educators alike as Kenya shapes the future of its education system.
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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.
