The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has re-advertised promotional vacancies for Deputy Principal III, Senior Master II and Deputy Headteacher II. This article summarises the TSC promotion requirements, who is eligible, how to apply and practical steps teachers should take before submitting applications.
Key Takeaways
- Eligibility baseline: two years at the feeder grade is required for all three posts.
- Performance matters: a satisfactory performance appraisal rating (TPAD) is mandatory.
- Leadership evidence: candidates must show ability to supervise, mentor and support other teachers.
- Application method: apply only via the TSC online portal before the stated deadline.
TSC promotion requirements at a glance
The main rule across the advert numbers 108/2026, 109/2026 and 110/2026 is clear: the TSC promotion requirements demand service at the immediate feeder grade for a minimum of two years, a satisfactory performance appraisal, and proven mentorship or supervisory experience.
Who can apply and important notes
Do not apply manually. All applications must be submitted through the TSC online portal. If you applied under the earlier advertisement and your submission was successful, you do not need to reapply. Successful candidates will be posted where vacancies exist, so be prepared for reassignment.
Application steps and deadline
Prepare scanned copies of your certificates, service records and TPAD appraisal reports early. Log into the TSC portal, complete the online form, upload supporting documents and submit before the deadline. Avoid last-minute uploads to reduce the risk of portal errors.
Requirements for each advertised post
Below are the specific feeder-grade and common requirements for each advertised position.
Deputy Principal III (Advert No. 108/2026)
- Feeder grade: Senior Master III or Senior Master III – JSS (T-Scale 10/C5) with at least two years’ service.
- Performance: satisfactory rating in the performance appraisal (TPAD).
- Leadership: proven ability to supervise and mentor other teachers.
- Other checks: candidates must meet any additional requirements set by the Commission.
Senior Master II (Advert No. 109/2026)
- Feeder grade: Senior Master III or Senior Master III – JSS (T-Scale 10/C5) with at least two years’ service.
- Performance: satisfactory TPAD rating is required.
- Leadership: evidence of mentorship and supervisory roles.
- Competition: only 29 posts available, so prepare a strong application portfolio.
Deputy Headteacher II (Advert No. 110/2026)
- Feeder grade: Senior Teacher I (T-Scale 8/C3) with at least two years’ service.
- Performance: satisfactory TPAD rating is mandatory.
- Leadership: must demonstrate ability to support and mentor colleagues.
- Scale: 1,470 posts advertised, offering many promotion opportunities at primary level.
How to strengthen your application
Build a concise evidence file showing mentorship and supervision. Examples include records of departmental leadership, minutes from teacher training sessions you led, letters confirming mentorship roles, and improved learner performance under your guidance. Review your TPAD record and address any flagged issues before applying.
Preparing documents and managing TPAD
Ensure your certificates, appointment letters and appraisal reports are current and legible. If your TPAD rating is less than satisfactory, request feedback from your school administration and take corrective steps before the next submission cycle. A clean TPAD record significantly improves promotion prospects.
Where to find study and resource materials
While preparing, consider refreshing curriculum knowledge and leadership skills. Use revision materials such as free CBC exams and subject papers to demonstrate continued professional growth. Primary-level candidates may find practice tests useful at free KCPE exams, while secondary-level teachers can use the free KSCE exams collection for curriculum alignment and subject mastery.
Final checklist before submission
- Confirm you meet the two-year feeder-grade requirement.
- Verify your TPAD rating is satisfactory and saved in your personnel file.
- Compile written evidence of mentorship and supervision.
- Scan and upload all documents to the TSC portal early of the deadline.
Conclusion
The TSC promotion requirements prioritise experience, documented performance and leadership readiness. Teachers who prepare their TPAD records, gather clear mentorship evidence and submit complete online applications early will maximise their chances in this exercise. Use available revision and curriculum resources to strengthen your professional profile before applying.
