Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development Proposes 40 Subjects for Grade 10 in Senior School

The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has made a significant proposal to offer 40 subjects for Grade 10 in Senior School, the secondary school version of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This announcement marks a substantial development in Kenya’s education system, as it aims to provide students with a diverse and comprehensive learning experience.

Inaugural Class and Subject Selection

Grade 10 will be the inaugural class in Senior School (SS), which will consist of three grades. The first Grade 10 class is set to commence in 2026. According to the curriculum design, Grade 10 students will be offered a pool of 40 subjects. However, they will need to select only seven subjects from this extensive list. This approach is designed to allow students to tailor their education according to their interests and career aspirations.

Mandatory Subjects

Notably, all students will be required to take four mandatory subjects: English, Kiswahili, Community Service Learning, and Physical Education (PE). These subjects are fundamental to the holistic development of students, ensuring they possess essential language skills, a sense of community, and physical well-being.

Pathway-Specific Subjects

The curriculum design specifies that learners shall take seven learning areas (LAs) as recommended by the Presidential Working Party on Educational Reforms (PWPER). These shall comprise the four compulsory learning areas and three additional subjects chosen by the learner according to their selected pathway. This framework aims to provide a balanced education while allowing for specialization in areas of interest.

STEM Curriculum

Within the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum, students can choose from 17 subjects. These subjects include Advanced Mathematics, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, General Science, Agriculture, Computer Studies, Home Science, Drawing and Design, Aviation Technology, Building and Construction, Electrical Technology, and Metal Technology. Additionally, STEM subject options encompass Power Mechanics, Wood Technology, Media Technology, and Marine and Fisheries Technology. This wide range of subjects is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for various STEM-related careers.

Social Science Pathway

The KICD has also outlined the subjects available under the Social Science Pathway. These include Advanced English, Literature in English, Indigenous Language, Kiswahili Kipevu/Kenya Sign Language, Fasihi ya Kiswahili, Sign Language, Arabic, French, German, and Mandarin Chinese. Moreover, History and Citizenship, Geography, Christian Religious Education/Islamic Religious Education/Hindu Religious Education, and Business Studies are part of the Social Science category. This diverse selection allows students to explore different cultures, languages, and historical perspectives.

Arts and Sports Science

The remaining category of subjects falls under Arts and Sports Science, encompassing disciplines such as Sports and Recreation, Physical Education, Music and Dance, Theatre and Film, and Fine Arts. This pathway is designed to nurture students’ creative and athletic talents, promoting a well-rounded education.

Specialized Curriculum

While English and Kiswahili are indicated as compulsory, learners who opt for these subjects as their specialization will undergo a differentiated curriculum in terms of scope, experiences, and assessment. Such learners shall take Advanced English or Kiswahili Kipevu with an additional two lessons. This ensures that students who are passionate about these languages can delve deeper into their studies.

Pathway Flexibility

It is recommended that at least two learning areas should be from the chosen Pathway. In exceptional cases, some learners may opt for one learning area from the chosen Pathway and a maximum of two learning areas from any of the three pathways, depending on their career projections and with guidance from the principals at Senior School. This flexibility allows students to customize their education based on their future goals.

Stakeholder Feedback

Stakeholders have been invited to provide their feedback on the proposed subjects and curriculum layout. This inclusive approach ensures that the curriculum is refined and tailored to meet the needs of all learners.

As Kenya moves towards implementing this ambitious curriculum, the focus remains on providing a diverse and comprehensive education that prepares students for the challenges of the future. The proposed subjects and pathways aim to cater to a wide range of interests and career aspirations, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel in their chosen field.