The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has opened applications for a specialised online KNEC item writing training for Senior School and Vocational (Stage-Based Curriculum) teachers running from 12 to 30 October 2026. The programme trains teachers to design valid, fair and competency-based test items that measure real skills and applied knowledge.
Key Takeaways
- The training focuses on writing competency-based items for Senior School and Vocational subjects.
- Applications are digital; the submission deadline is 30 September 2026.
- Minimum requirements include TSC registration, at least one year of teaching, and a head of institution recommendation.
- Successful participants receive KNEC certification and may join the pool of contracted item writers.
KNEC item writing training: why it matters
Competency-Based Assessment (CBA) shifts assessment from memorised facts to real-world skills. Well-written items test problem solving, critical thinking and practical application. This training equips teachers to write scenario-based tasks, clear marking rubrics and unbiased items that align with the Competency-Based Curriculum.
Who is eligible and what are the minimum requirements?
- Active teaching role: Must be teaching the subject at Senior School or Vocational level.
- Professional credentials: Relevant academic and professional qualifications in the applied subject area.
- Experience: Minimum of one year of active classroom teaching.
- Registration: Must be registered with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
- Institutional endorsement: Formal recommendation from the head of institution.
- Integrity: A clean professional record and unquestionable integrity are required.
- Prior training: Teachers previously trained by KNEC in item writing should not reapply.
How to apply
The application process is fully online. Applicants should prepare scanned copies of qualifications, TSC registration, a recommendation letter from the institution head and any other supporting documents before submission. Submit your application through the KNEC examiners portal: https://examinersapp.knec.ac.ke. Ensure your profile and documents are uploaded before the deadline on 30 September 2026.
What participants will learn
- Designing valid and reliable competency-based items and tasks.
- Constructing clear marking schemes and rubrics for objective scoring.
- Eliminating ambiguity and bias from test items.
- Aligning items to curriculum outcomes and performance standards.
- Developing scenario- and performance-based assessment tasks suitable for vocational contexts.
Professional benefits and national impact
Certified item writers gain recognised assessment literacy that enhances classroom assessment and professional standing. KNEC certification opens opportunities to join the national pool of contracted item writers and to contribute to national examinations and assessment design. Well-trained item writers strengthen the credibility and fairness of Kenya’s assessment system as the curriculum emphasises applied competencies.
Related resources for teachers
Teachers preparing for item-writing roles can refresh curriculum knowledge and assessment practice using these resources:
- CBC curriculum designs — study official outcomes and learning progressions.
- Senior School curriculum designs — review subject-specific frameworks for Senior School item alignment.
- CBC lesson plans and teaching notes — practical classroom tasks that help generate authentic assessment items.
Frequently asked quick answers
- Deadline? 30 September 2026.
- Mode? Online training (12–30 October 2026).
- Who should not apply? Teachers already trained in item writing by KNEC.
- Where to apply? Use the KNEC examiners portal at https://examinersapp.knec.ac.ke.
If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents now and apply before the deadline. Skilled item writers play a pivotal role in ensuring assessments measure meaningful competencies and support improved learning outcomes across Kenya.
