Decision Checklist: Choosing the Right Curriculum in Kenya
Qualified Summary
There’s no “best” curriculum — only the best fit for your child’s goals, abilities, and your family’s resources.
1. What are your child’s long-term goals?
Do you want your child to study in Kenya or abroad after secondary school?
Kenya: Choose CBC (national alignment, accepted by local universities).
Abroad: Consider Cambridge (IGCSE/A-Level), IB, or American (AP) curricula — recognized internationally.
2. What is your budget and preferred school environment?
CBC schools (especially public) are the most affordable.
International curricula (Cambridge, IB, American) require higher fees for tuition, exams, and resources.
Ask: Can we sustain this financially through all grades?
If cost-sensitive → CBC or local private schools with blended models.
If budget allows → International schools for global exposure.
3. What is your child’s learning style and personality?
CBC / IB: best for hands-on, curious, and creative learners who enjoy projects, teamwork, and discovery.
Cambridge / 8-4-4: best for analytical, exam-driven learners who thrive in structured, academic settings.
American system: ideal for well-rounded learners who like flexibility, continuous assessment, and a mix of academics and extracurriculars.
4. How important is global recognition versus local relevance?
If global mobility, university admissions abroad, and exposure to international standards matter → choose Cambridge, IB, or American.
🇰🇪 If your focus is on national pathways, affordability, and integration into Kenya’s education reforms → CBC is the right fit.
5. What type of skills and values do you want emphasized?
CBC – competency, creativity, and problem-solving tied to real life.
Cambridge – academic mastery and subject specialization.
IB – global citizenship, inquiry, and independent research.
American – balance of academics, extracurriculars, and personal development.