The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has rolled out workshops for school deputies and ICT champions to strengthen use of the TPAD tool and to roll out the TSC TIMEC mentorship programme. The training clarifies appraisal timelines, correct use of the Entry/Exit and TMIS portals, and practical mentorship and coaching approaches to improve teacher conduct and performance.
Key Takeaways
- TPAD appraisals must follow the TPAD calendar; avoid rushing or conducting observations on weekends.
- Schools must use the Entry/Exit portal to record teachers joining or leaving and update TMIS data and teaching loads.
- The TSC TIMEC mentorship programme promotes mentorship and coaching as alternatives to immediate disciplinary measures.
- Mentors and mentees earn certificates and TPD points; completion can give an advantage during promotions and appointments.
What is TPAD and why timing matters
TPAD (Teacher Performance Appraisal and Development) is the tool TSC uses to assess and guide teacher performance. During the training, Curriculum Support Officers stressed strict adherence to the TPAD calendar. Completing appraisals on time ensures fair assessment and avoids gaps in records. Important practical rules include:
- Complete lesson observations on school days only—no weekend observations.
- Select the not on duty option for teachers on leave, including maternity leave.
- Heads of Institutions must assign appraiser rights to the correct personnel.
Overview of the TSC TIMEC mentorship programme
The TSC TIMEC mentorship programme is a structured teacher support initiative focused on prevention and development. TIMEC stands for Teacher Induction, Mentorship and Coaching. It aims to build teacher competence in pedagogy, professional ethics, policies and laws that govern the teaching profession.
Roles and responsibilities: Mentors and coaches
Mentors and coaches guide professional growth through planned, ongoing support. Key responsibilities are:
- Develop a mentorship or coaching plan based on the mentee’s needs.
- Schedule and hold regular mentorship meetings and provide constructive feedback.
- Clarify performance goals and support attainment through guidance and counseling.
- Model professional conduct, encourage initiative, and maintain confidentiality.
Roles and responsibilities: Mentees
- Identify areas for improvement and take responsibility for development.
- Be proactive: initiate contact, prepare for meetings, and be punctual.
- Listen, ask for feedback, and act on guidance from the mentor or coach.
Benefits, incentives and professional recognition
Teachers who complete TIMEC mentorship receive tangible and career benefits:
- A certificate of completion for both mentor and mentee.
- TPD points as provided in the TPD policy framework and career progression guidelines.
- Additional scoring advantage during recruitment and promotion processes for those who show completion evidence at interviews.
Eligibility, selection and duration
Mentors are selected for professional competence, integrity and willingness to volunteer. Selection also considers gender balance and inclusion of persons living with disability. Potential mentors include senior teachers, subject heads, team leaders and administrators. Eligible mentees include newly recruited teachers, interns, newly appointed administrators and teachers needing support.
Mentorship is normally for at least one year, subject to satisfactory performance. Coaching continues as needed beyond the formal mentorship period.
Practical steps schools must take now
To make TPAD and TIMEC work, schools should:
- Update the Teacher Management Information System (TMIS) with missing teachers and correct enrolment figures.
- Record all staff movements using the Entry/Exit portal to avoid payroll and record issues.
- Assign appraiser rights promptly and follow the TPAD calendar for assessments and observations.
For curriculum-aligned classroom support and lesson ideas, institutions can access CBC lesson plans and CBC curriculum designs. Teachers preparing for professional qualifications may find helpful practice materials at the Diploma in Education past papers page.
Dispute resolution and discipline
If disputes arise between mentors and mentees, the programme outlines clear steps: disciplinary matters follow the Code of Regulations for Teachers (CORT) and laws of Kenya; grievances can be lodged with the immediate supervisor or via the Commission’s procedures.
How TIMEC improves school performance
When institutionalised, the TIMEC programme supports teacher retention, closes performance gaps, improves classroom delivery, and strengthens learner wellbeing through mentorship and counseling. School heads must identify and prepare mentors so that mentees receive consistent and useful professional support.
Implementing TPAD correctly and embracing the TIMEC mentorship approach will help schools create a culture of continuous professional development, fairness in appraisal, and improvement in teaching and learning outcomes.
