New curriculum in Kenya

Introduction

Kenya introduced a new education curriculum, known as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), to replace the former 8-4-4 system. The CBC emphasizes skills, competencies, and practical learning rather than rote memorization. The new curriculum aims to produce well-rounded students who are equipped for the workforce, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

system:

Here’s a brief breakdown of the stages in the CBC System:

1. Pre-Primary Education (Grade 1 & 2)

Age Group: 3-6 years old.
Focus on early childhood development through play, interaction, and basic skills.
Learning is centered around socialization, communication, and motor skills.

2. Lower Primary (Grade 1–3)

Age Group: 6-9 years old.
Emphasis on foundational skills like literacy, numeracy, and life skills.
Children learn in an interactive, student-centered environment with a focus on competency development.

3. Upper Primary (Grade 4–6)

Age Group: 9-12 years old.
Introduction to more subject-specific content like science, social studies, and languages.
Continued focus on practical skills and critical thinking.

4. Junior Secondary (Grade 7–9)

Age Group: 12-15 years old.
Students begin to specialize in subjects like mathematics, science, languages, and humanities.
The curriculum incorporates hands-on learning and prepares students for their future careers or further education.

5. Senior Secondary (Grade 10–12)

Age Group: 15-18 years old.
Focus on specialized subject areas based on individual interests, with options in areas like sciences, arts, technology, and business.
Prepares students for university education, vocational training, or the job market.

Key Features of CBC:

Focus on Competency: Development of skills and abilities necessary for real-world challenges.

Student-Centered Learning: Active participation, collaborative work, and practical experiences.

Assessment: Emphasis on continuous assessment rather than end-of-term exams.

Holistic Approach: Inclusion of values, social-emotional learning, and mental health awareness.