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Rethinking Education: The Rise of Homeschooling in Kenya

Rethinking Education: The Rise of Homeschooling in Kenya

  • Posted by: Goshule

For a long time, homeschooling felt like one of those bougie ideas reserved for rich people. But then came the pandemic, the curriculum overhaul, and the slow realization that maybe, just maybe, the traditional system isn’t built for every child. And now? Homeschooling is no longer a whisper in the parenting underground. It’s a full-blown conversation. In Kenya, homeschooling operates within a legal framework that ensures children receive a recognised education. The Basic Education Act of 2013 mandates that all children must receive basic education, and while it doesn't explicitly address homeschooling, it is legally accepted.

Quick disclaimer before anyone starts going up in arms: this isn’t a manifesto against formal education. There are incredible teachers out there doing the Lord’s work with nothing but a chalk stick and sheer willpower. But let’s be honest, between overcrowded classrooms, skyrocketing school fees, and the CBC curveball, some parents are choosing to take the scenic route. And it’s not just happening in Karen or Runda. It’s happening in Machakos, Kisumu, Nakuru, and yes, even in the heart of Nairobi’s apartment blocks

Parents opting for homeschooling should register their children with an examination body for national or international exams, ensuring their education meets recognised standards. They must choose a curriculum that aligns with either the Kenyan National Curriculum or reputable international programs like Cambridge . They must also keep records of the child's educational progress, including lesson plans, assessments, and achievements. Collaboration with homeschooling communities, such as the East Africa Christian Home-educators (EACH), can also provide additional support and resources.

Homeschoolers are required to follow policies set by the Ministry of Education and ensure students are duly registered for required exams through certified examination centres. This process ensures the education provided is recognised and meets national and international standards.

Why It Matters

Homeschooling offers something the system rarely does: breathing room. Room to learn at your own pace. Room to explore interests that don’t fit neatly into a syllabus. Room to fail without being labeled a failure. And of course, values-based education. Many parents want their children raised in environments that reinforce their beliefs, and family culture, something mainstream schooling sometimes overlooks.

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Homeschooling requires commitment, community, and a whole lot of patience (especially on days when your child insists that fractions are a scam). But for those who’ve taken the leap, it’s been transformative.

 



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