The Teachers Service Commission has rolled out a TSC induction programme for 24,000 junior school (JSS) intern teachers. The induction introduces new interns to TSC regulations, codes of conduct and the Competency Based Education (CBE) approach, and prepares STEM and language teachers for retooling by CEMASTEA.
Key Takeaways
- 24,000 JSS intern teachers are undergoing the TSC induction programme.
- Induction covers TSC legal policies, code of conduct and CBE retooling for STEM and language teachers.
- Interns earn a monthly stipend of KSh 20,000 (net about KSh 18,000 after deductions).
- Intern teachers have a one‑year contract (1 Jan–31 Dec 2026) but may serve two years before confirmation.
- Intern leave entitlements include sick, maternity, paternity and compassionate leave with clear application procedures.
TSC induction programme: Overview
The TSC induction programme aims to familiarise newly posted JSS intern teachers with the Commission’s rules and expectations. Headteachers who host junior schools met with sub‑county directors to begin the process. Schools submitted online casualty (entry/exit) reports to unlock stipend payments for the interns.
Who is covered and contract duration
The programme targets 24,000 junior school intern teachers recently recruited and posted in late December. These interns were hired on a one‑year internship term running from 1 January to 31 December 2026. However, national guidance indicates government interns may serve for at least two years before confirmation, so many interns are likely to complete a two‑year period before any permanent appointment.
Stipend, deductions and deployment
An intern attached to a junior school receives a monthly stipend of KSh 20,000. After statutory deductions such as SHIF, housing levy and NSSF, take‑home pay is about KSh 18,000. Principals and sub‑county directors are responsible for submitting the required online reports so TSC can process payments.
Training and CBE retooling
After induction, STEM and language interns will be retooled by CEMASTEA on the Competency Based Education (CBE) approach. The training focuses on practical classroom methods aligned to the new curriculum. For planning and classroom materials, teachers can access exam and lesson resources such as free CBC exams and CBC lesson plans.
Benefits and employment priority
TSC offers some benefits to intern teachers. When replacement vacancies arise, interns are prioritised and receive an advantage in recruitment interviews: the Commission awards 50 marks to intern teachers during replacement interviews. This gives interns a higher chance of securing permanent posts when positions open.
Leave entitlements for intern teachers
Unlike permanent and pensionable teachers, who are entitled to nine categories of leave, intern teachers have approved access to four leaves after applying in writing through the headteacher to the sub‑county director. The approved intern leaves are:
- Sick Leave – up to 90 days (including weekends and holidays). Sick leave is granted as: full pay for up to one month; half pay for the second month; and without pay beyond two months until the teacher resumes duty. The head of institution forwards medical documents to the sub‑county director. If the teacher cannot apply personally, the head must inform the sub‑county director within 14 days.
- Maternity Leave – female intern teachers are entitled to up to 90 days with full pay. Applications must include a medical letter and at least three months’ written notice indicating the expected delivery date.
- Paternity Leave – male intern teachers may take up to 14 days with full pay once a year. Applications should include evidence such as a birth notification.
- Compassionate Leave – up to 14 days with full pay for serious family emergencies, burial of a family member, natural disaster affecting home, or similar distressing events.
What comes after induction
Following induction and CEMASTEA retooling, teachers will report to duty fully informed on TSC requirements and classroom expectations. Some interns who complete the extended two‑year internship may be considered for confirmation to permanent and pensionable terms, depending on national policy and available vacancies. For classroom support and teaching notes, intern teachers can download practical resources like JSS teaching notes.
Quick action points for new interns
- Confirm your posting and ensure your headteacher submits the online casualty report to unlock stipend payments.
- Prepare required documents for leave applications (medical letters, birth notifications, or supporting evidence for compassionate leave).
- Attend induction sessions and CEMASTEA training to align classroom practice with CBE.
- Keep copies of all correspondence with the headteacher and sub‑county director for records.
