JSS selection criteria 2024.The introduction of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in 2017 as an alternative to the 8-4-4 system has generated mixed reactions among parents, with one of the primary concerns being the selection and placement of secondary school students.
To understand the process of middle school selection and placement, it is essential to grasp the procedures involved.
This article provides crucial insights into the matter.
Middle school, also known as Junior Secondary School (JSS), serves as the transitional phase between primary and secondary education, following the completion of the national exam.
Within the Core Skills Curriculum (CBC), there are both core and optional subjects.
The core subjects at this level encompass :
English,
Swahili,
math,
General Science,
Physical education,
Pre-technical and
pre-career education,
Social science,
Religious education,
Business research,
Agriculture,
Life skills, and
Sports and physical education.
Additionally, high schools offer specialized tracks, including visual arts,
performing arts,
family science,
information technology,
foreign languages (e.g., German, French, Mandarin/Chinese, or Arabic),
Kenyan Sign Language, and native languages.
Learners typically choose at least one and at most two elective subjects.
The structure of secondary education in Kenya comprises years 7, 8, and 9 at the intermediate level.
The initial transition to middle school in Kenya will take place in January 2023.
During this process, learners can select from a list of middle school CBC options provided by the school principal.
JSS selection criteria 2024
It is crucial for parents and guardians to actively engage with school leadership for a successful selection process, with school principals playing a vital role in guiding learners through the selection procedure.
Principals are mandated to upload middle school options, and a list of these choices can be accessed on the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) portal.
All registered public and private JSSs are expected to place students, but parents opting for private secondary schools should be aware of their responsibility for tuition fees.
JSS selection criteria 2024
The Ministry of Education has established specific criteria for the selection and classification of students from grade 6 to middle school.
This process is based on factors such as the Certificate of Merit (performance in the Kenya Primary Education Assessment – KPSEA), fairness, learners’ and parents’ school preferences, and the capacity of the chosen institution.
Under the 100 percent transfer policy, all learners will be placed in a middle school.