The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has advertised 34,016 teacher promotion vacancies for various grades and cadres. Applications are accepted online through the TSC portal (www.teachersonline.go.ke) and must be received by Monday, 10th August 2026. This guide summarises the vacancies, basic requirements, application steps and preparation tips for teachers interested in promotion.
Key Takeaways
- 34,016 promotion vacancies advertised across primary, secondary and TTC cadres.
- Apply online only via the TSC portal; manual applications will not be accepted.
- Application deadline: 10th August 2026. Successful interviewees must present valid Chapter 6 documents before appointment.
- Major roles include Senior Master IV, Senior Teacher II, Deputy Head Teacher II and others with varying experience requirements.
TSC teacher promotion vacancies — what to know
The advertised posts cover career progression from classroom teacher levels to senior management. The exercise follows the Commission’s Career Progression Guidelines and targets teachers who meet the stated experience and appraisal criteria. TSC teacher promotion vacancies include both regular and Special Needs Education (SNE) posts, as well as positions in Teachers Training Colleges (TTC).
Summary of advertised posts and numbers
Below are some of the key adverts and the number of posts available. This is not exhaustive but highlights the largest groups:
- Senior Master IV (T-Scale 9) – 5,956 posts
- Senior Teacher II (T-Scale 7) – 13,490 posts
- Deputy Head Teacher II (T-Scale 9) – 3,075 posts
- Deputy Headteacher I (T-Scale 10) – 1,865 posts
- Deputy Principal III (T-Scale 11) – 1,068 posts
- Deputy Principal II (T-Scale 12) – 891 posts
- Various senior and leadership roles in TTCs, SNE and curriculum support officers
Each advertised post specifies the minimum grade or service level required (for example, three years at the immediately lower grade in most cases, or six months for certain step promotions). All posts require a satisfactory performance appraisal rating and evidence of leadership and mentoring ability.
Who is eligible and required documents
Eligibility is based on current grade, length of service at that grade, and performance appraisal. Common requirements across adverts include:
- Minimum service in the immediate lower grade (usually three years; some posts require six months).
- Satisfactory rating in the performance appraisal process.
- Demonstrated ability to supervise, mentor and provide professional support to other teachers.
- Successful candidates must produce valid Chapter 6 documents before appointment.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted online through the TSC portal at www.teachersonline.go.ke. Follow these steps:
- Log in to your TSC online account and select the relevant advert number for your intended promotion.
- Complete the online form and upload any required documents as requested by the portal.
- Confirm submission and keep a copy of the application reference or screenshot for your records.
Remember: manual applications will not be considered, and the Commission encourages teachers with disabilities to apply where appropriate.
Interview, posting and appointment notes
Candidates shortlisted for interviews will be invited as per TSC procedures. If successful at interview, candidates will be required to present valid Chapter 6 documents (declaration documents) before appointment. Appointments will be made to locations where vacancies exist.
Preparation tips for candidates
- Review the specific advert you are applying for and ensure you meet the exact grade and experience requirement.
- Update your performance appraisal and duty records to reflect leadership and mentorship activities.
- Prepare for interview questions on school management, curriculum delivery and teacher professional support.
- Gather and certify all required documents, including Chapter 6 declarations, academic certificates and professional registration where applicable.
- Use past papers and professional resources to prepare: for example, teachers upgrading qualifications can practise with Diploma in Education past papers or review subject guides like Bachelor of Education (Arts) past papers.
Resources and further reading
Teachers preparing for promotion interviews or professional retooling may find curriculum and exam resources helpful. For classroom leadership tied to the CBC, consult the CBC curriculum designs. Senior leaders preparing for assessment or subject duties can also use revision materials such as the KCSE revision exams to refresh subject knowledge.
Final reminders
Before applying, check the advert number that matches your target grade and confirm you meet the service and appraisal requirements. Submit your application online well before the 10th August 2026 deadline and keep digital copies of everything you upload. Successful candidates must present Chapter 6 documents at appointment and will be posted where vacancies exist.
