Choosing the Appropriate Senior School for Grade 9 Transition to Grade 10 in Kenya
Introduction
As the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) continues to unfold in Kenya, most parents and students now ask: “What after Grade 9?” The answer is Senior School — a foundational stage that runs from Grade 10 to Grade 12 and prepares learners for higher education, careers, and life skills. Choosing the right senior school is no casual affair, one that will shape your child’s future.
This guide walks you through the key steps and considerations in selecting a senior school for a Grade 9 student making a transition to Grade 10.
1. Know What Senior School is All About
Senior School in CBC is not exam oriented; it’s specializing. Students specialize in one of three streams:
- STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Creative Arts and Sports Science
Your child will go deeper in their desired field from Grade 10–12, so the school you choose should cater to that stream.
2. Choosing the Right Senior School
These are the key things to look for when choosing a school:
a) Which Stream Does the School Provide?
Not all schools provide all streams. First, check:
– Does the school offer the stream your child is looking for?
– Are there enough facilities (labs, studios, sports grounds) to support that option?
b) Performance and Track Record
A school’s track record still matters under CBC. Ask:
– How did the students perform in national exams and pilot CBC exams?
– Is the school exceptionally good at certain subjects or subjects?
c) Teachers and Staff
– Well-trained and motivated teachers are required for CBC. Check:
– Is there a career guide or advisor available?
d) School Facilities
Today’s learning demands more than a chalkboard. Pay a visit to the school and observe:
– Science and ICT laboratories
– Music or drama rooms (for arts pathway)
– Sports grounds
– Libraries and computer-based learning materials
e) Discipline and Values
Your child’s character is as important as their report. Find out:
– What values are promoted by the school?
– Is it a Christian-based school which strengthens your family’s faith?
– Are devotions or spiritual activities a feature of school life?
f) Location and Safety
Some parents prefer day schools; others, boarding. Either way, check:
– Is the school well-located?
– Is the surrounding area safe and suitable?
g) Affordability
A good school must be affordable. Compare:
– School fees
– Miscellaneous fees (uniform, excursions, activities)
– Are bursaries or scholarships available?
3. The Role of Career Guidance
CBC does career guidance from an early age. This helps learners to understand their:
- Interests
- Strengths
- Personality
- Long-term goals
Before selecting a school, have your child receive school or career guidance. This avoids uninformed decisions later.
4. Keep up to Date with Ministry of Education Guidelines
The CBC system continues to evolve. The Ministry of Education will provide formal guidelines on:
– How Grade 9 students will be streamed into senior schools
– Whether students will apply or be placed automatically
– Assessments required for entry
Stay in touch with your child’s school and browse official government news regularly.
5. Parents’ Last Checklist
This is an easy-to-use checklist to assist you:
– Did I talk to my child about their career goals and interests?
– Did we choose a path that best serves them?
– Have I researched which schools offer that pathway?
– Did I visit or research the schools?
– Does the school emphasize Christian values and character development?
– Is the school safe and affordable?
– Have I prayed with the family on this decision?
Lastly:
Choosing a senior school is not just about grades or prestige alone. It’s about nurturing your child’s Godly gifts where they will be trained to serve God and man. As Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) instructs us:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Let’s guide our children prayerfully, practically, and wisely.