Wananchi Opinion: The core and optional subjects that guide future professions

The transition to Senior School under the Competency Based Education system in Kenya offers learners a structured pathway that prepares them for future careers.

Each learner selects a career track that aligns with their strengths, interests and long-term professional goals. Each track has a set of core subjects and optional subjects that guide learning and skill development.

Understanding these pathways help learners choose wisely and prepares them for both further education and employment.

The Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics track is designed for learners who wish to pursue careers in medicine, pharmacy, nursing, engineering, architecture, information technology, aviation and other scientific fields.

The minimum number of core subjects in this track is four. These core subjects are mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics. These subjects build analytical thinking and scientific literacy.

Learners must also choose at least two optional subjects from computer studies, agriculture, business studies or geography.

These optional subjects allow learners to strengthen specialized interests that support future training in scientific and technical areas.

The Social Sciences track supports learners who are interested in careers in law, governance, psychology, criminology, journalism, public administration, international relations and community development.

The minimum number of core subjects in this track is three. These subjects are history, geography and religious education. These learning areas build critical thinking, communication and an understanding of social structures.

Learners then select at least two optional subjects from business studies, computer studies, home science, agriculture, or a foreign language.

The optional choices help learners refine their areas of interest as they prepare for careers that require strong communication and analysis of human society.

The Arts and Sports Science track is suitable for learners with strong creativity or sporting talent. It is ideal for future musicians, actors, fashion designers, dancers, athletes, coaches, photographers and visual artists.

Learners in this track take a minimum of three core subjects which are physical education, visual arts and music or performing arts. These subjects nurture talent and practical skills.

They must also choose at least two optional subjects such as computer studies, home science, business studies or foreign languages. Optional areas broaden learners’ abilities in creative expression and support their transition into the creative and sports industries.

The Technical and Vocational track prepares learners for practical and hands on careers in areas such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, plumbing, building construction, automotive technology, welding, metal work, wood work, textile production and culinary arts.

Learners in this track take a minimum of three core subjects which include mathematics, integrated science and pre technical studies. These subjects build problem solving skills and fundamental technical knowledge.

Learners then select at least two optional subjects from electricity, metal work, wood work, home management, textile studies or computer studies. These optional subjects help them develop specialized skills that can lead directly to technical training institutions or apprenticeships.

Assessment in Senior School is designed to measure both academic ability and practical competence. Learners undergo continuous formative assessments which include class tests, projects, laboratory work, presentations and practical tasks. These assessments help teachers track progress and guide learning.

At the end of Grade Twelve, learners take a national summative examination known as the Kenya Certificate of Senior School Education. This exam is administered by the Kenya National Examinations Council and evaluates mastery of both core and optional subjects taken within the selected career track.

Learners who successfully complete Senior School receive the Kenya Certificate of Senior School Education which captures their performance, career track and competencies.

This certificate enables them to join universities, technical colleges or specialised training institutions depending on their interests and achievements. Choosing an appropriate career track strengthens a learner’s confidence and prepares them for success in their chosen field.