Teaching is a crucial profession in Kenya, its a career that most of our parents took and enjoyed doing it. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) which is an independent commission that was established by the Constitution, manages human resources for over 300,000 teachers in both primary and secondary schools.
Teacher Categories and Qualifications
The TSC categorizes registered teachers into three groups:
- Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE)
- Primary Education Teaching
- Secondary Education Teaching
Each category has distinct responsibilities and requires specific qualifications.
Secondary Teacher Qualifications (Updated 2024)
As the most senior teaching group, secondary school teachers require specific qualifications. The educational landscape, including curriculum, evolves constantly, and teaching qualifications are updated accordingly.
The TSC has outlined the revised 2024 qualifications necessary to teach in secondary schools. These requirements encompass specialized programs for educators of visually and hearing-impaired learners.
Minimum Qualifications for Diplomas in Education (Secondary)
- Minimum KCSE grade of C+ or higher
- Minimum C+ in the two chosen teaching subjects
- Minimum C plain in English language
- Minimum C plain in Mathematics for science-based courses
- Minimum D+ in Mathematics for non-science-based courses
Minimum Qualifications for Diplomas in Education (Visually and Hearing Impaired)
- Minimum KCSE grade of C plain in both English and Kiswahili or another approved language
- Minimum C- in English language
- Minimum C- in Mathematics for science-based courses
- Minimum D plain in Mathematics for non-science-based courses
Minimum Qualifications for Bachelor of Education Degrees
These are the minimum requirements for secondary school teachers with bachelor’s degrees:
- Minimum overall GPA of C+ or its equivalent
- C+ in the two chosen teaching subjects
Additional Requirements for Bachelor of Arts or Science Degrees
- Minimum KCSE grade of C+ or higher
- Minimum C+ in the two chosen teaching subjects
- Completion of a postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) for those transitioning into teaching