The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has put in place a structured process for appointing deputy headteachers following the guidelines outlined in the Career Progression Guidelines (CPG). This framework outlines the qualifications and experience required for teachers who aspire to take on leadership roles in schools.
Key. Experience
Progression through Job Groups
- Minimum Service Requirement: Teachers are expected to have a minimum of three years of service in Job Group C3 (Senior Teacher I) before being eligible for promotion to Deputy Headteacher (Job Group C4). The CPG discourages bypassing job groups.
Teaching Credentials and Performance
- Teaching Certificate: It is mandatory to hold a teaching certificate.
- Performance Assessment: Candidates must have received a rating in their recent performance evaluation.
Professional Growth
- Completion of TPD Modules: Applicants need to fulfill the Teacher Professional Development (TPD) modules as specified by the TSC.
Desirable Skills and Attributes
Effective leadership and Supervision
- Leadership Qualities: Candidates should exhibit leadership skills and the ability to effectively lead, supervise and support teachers creating a conducive learning environment.
Constitutional Compliance
- Ethical Behavior: Adherence to Chapter Six of the Kenyan Constitution, which underscores integrity, leadership and ethical behavior is crucial.
Selection Process and Factors to Consider
Evaluation during the Interview
- Additional Requirements: The selection process may include criteria that are evaluated during the interview phase.
Job Responsibilities and Compensation
- Position: Deputy Headteacher II (C4, T Scale 9) functions as an administrator in schools with a student population of less than 1,000. Responsibilities include shaping the curriculum implementing policies and overseeing school programs while reporting directly to the Head Teacher.
- Salary Bracket: Starting in 2023 the salary for this role ranges from Ksh 45,287 to Ksh 51,632 per month.
Summary
The Teacher Service Commission’s Career Progression Guidelines offer a fair route for teachers to advance to headteacher positions, in Kenyan primary schools. By prioritizing experience, growth and leadership abilities the TSC ensures that appointed individuals are suitably qualified to enhance a school environment and promote student achievement.