The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has begun an induction programme for 9,159 replacement teachers recruited in January. This induction covers TSC legal policies, codes of conduct and teachers’ entitlements, and prepares the new recruits for their probationary service and entry onto the TSC payroll.
Key Takeaways
- TSC induction has started for 9,159 teachers recruited on permanent and pensionable terms.
- Primary P1 teachers start at grade B5 with basic pay from Ksh 25,028 to Ksh 31,615; graduate secondary teachers start at job group C2.
- Teachers serve a six-month probation and are eligible for promotion after three years (automatic progression between job groups).
- Allowances include commuter, annual leave, hardship, house allowance and medical cover under SHA.
TSC induction: what it covers
The induction is run at sub-county level and focuses on familiarising new teachers with key TSC legal frameworks. Topics include the code of regulations, the code of conduct and procedures for leave and performance management. The programme helps teachers understand their rights and responsibilities at the start of employment.
Who were recruited and why
TSC advertised posts to replace teachers who exited the payroll through natural attrition in 2025. The recruitment filled 7,065 primary, 12 junior and 2,082 secondary posts. Recruits are on permanent and pensionable terms and will access full benefits after successful completion of probation.
Pay scales and allowances
New teachers will receive full salaries and allowances once payroll arrangements are in place. Key pay details include:
- P1 (Grade B5 / Primary Teacher II): basic salary Ksh 25,028–31,615.
- Graduate secondary teacher (Job Group C2): basic salary Ksh 39,070–49,100.
Common allowances for eligible teachers:
- Commuter allowance: Ksh 4,000 (primary), Ksh 5,000 (secondary).
- Annual leave allowance: Ksh 4,000 (primary) paid once in January; Ksh 6,000 (secondary).
- Hardship allowance: up to Ksh 6,600 (primary) and Ksh 10,900 (secondary) for selected hardship areas.
- House allowance varies by location: primary receives Ksh 3,500 (standard), Ksh 4,500 (certain municipalities) and Ksh 6,750 (Nairobi); secondary receives Ksh 9,600 (standard), Ksh 12,800 (municipalities) and Ksh 16,500 (Nairobi).
- Medical cover is provided under the Social Health Authority (SHA) via monthly medical allowances.
Probation, promotion and career progression
New recruits serve a six-month probation before conversion to permanent and pensionable status. Automatic promotions are tied to service time:
- P1 teachers move to job group C1 after three years.
- Diploma-level junior and senior teachers start at C1 and move to C2 after three years.
- Graduate teachers start at C2 and will be promoted to C3 after three years.
These automatic movements are part of TSC’s career progression framework and are designed to reward experience and continued service.
Payment timing and practical notes
Some new teachers did not receive salaries for February. TSC has indicated that payment may commence after completing three months of service, though some sources suggested payments could start in March. Appointment letters state the effective date is the date the teacher reports for duty and outline the annual salary range and eligible allowances.
Leave entitlements and how to apply
Recruits will enjoy standard TSC leave benefits. Most leave types are applied for and approved through TSC’s online platforms. Common leave categories include:
- Sick Leave
- Annual Leave
- Compassionate Leave
- Paternity and Maternity Leave
- Study Leave, Special Leave and Adoption Leave
- Spouse of Diplomat Leave
Resources for teachers and classroom planning
New teachers preparing lessons or seeking exam resources can use available online materials. For example, CBC teaching and exam resources help structure lessons for primary classes, while revision packs support secondary teaching:
- CBC exam resources and past papers — useful for primary and lower-secondary lesson planning.
- KCPE past papers and revision exams — helpful for teachers preparing candidates for national assessment.
- KCSE revision and topical exams — resources for secondary teachers preparing form 4 candidates.
What new teachers should do now
To make the most of the induction and settle quickly into service, new teachers should:
- Attend all induction sessions and keep copies of appointment letters and documents.
- Register for any required online TSC platforms used for leave and performance appraisal.
- Plan lessons using CBC and KCSE/KCPE resources to match the curriculum and exam expectations.
- Confirm allowances and posting details with school administration and payroll offices.
These steps will help new recruits transition smoothly into classroom work and ensure they access the full benefits and protections provided by TSC.
