LEARNING AREAS OFFERED IN SENIOR SCHOOLS

By Agnes Chepchumba


In Kenya, Senior School (Grades 10, 11, and 12) marks the final stage of Basic Education under the Competency-Based Education  (CBE).1 Transitioning into this level in 2026, learners move from a general education to a specialized model where they choose specific Pathways based on their interests and career goals.

The curriculum is organized into Core (Compulsory) learning areas and Elective Pathways.

1. Core Learning Areas (Mandatory for All)

Regardless of the pathway a student chooses, they must take the following four core learning areas:

  • English

  • Kiswahili (or Kenya Sign Language for learners with hearing impairment)5

  • Mathematics (Offered as Core Mathematics for STEM students or Essential Mathematics for Arts/Social Science students)6

  • Community Service Learning (CSL)

Note: Additionally, Physical Education (PE) and ICT Skills are integrated to ensure all learners maintain physical health and digital literacy.

2. The Three Specialization Pathways

Learners choose one pathway and typically select three elective learning areas within that pathway.

A. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

This is for students aiming for careers in medicine, engineering, and technology. It is divided into several tracks:

  • Pure Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics.

  • Applied Sciences: Agriculture, Computer Studies, Home Science.

  • Technical & Engineering: Aviation Technology, Building Construction, Power Mechanics, Electricity, Woodwork, and Metalwork.

  • Geosciences and Marine: Geosciences Technology, Marine & Fisheries Technology.

B. Social Sciences

This pathway is for students interested in law, economics, business, and humanities.

  • Humanities: History and Citizenship, Geography, Religious Education (CRE/IRE/HRE).

  • Business Studies: Accounting, Economics, and Commerce.

  • Languages & Literature: Advanced English/Kiswahili, Literature in English, Fasihi ya Kiswahili, and Foreign Languages (French, German, Arabic, Mandarin).

C. Arts and Sports Science

Designed for students with talents in creative and physical fields.

  • Arts: Fine Arts, Performing Arts (Music, Dance, Theatre, and Film).

  • Sports Science: Human Physiology, Anatomy and Nutrition, and Advanced Physical Education.

Summary of Subject Load

A typical student in Senior School will study a total of seven (7) subjects:

  1. English

  2. Kiswahili / KSL

  3. Mathematics (Core or Essential)

  4. Community Service Learning

  5. Elective 1 (from chosen pathway)

  6. Elective 2 (from chosen pathway)

  7. Elective 3 (from chosen pathway)


Together we demystify CBE and enable smooth transition from Junior School to Senior School

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