Nairobi Students Receive Extra Coaching Ahead of Transition Exams

In response to the upcoming transition assessments, schools across Nairobi have intensified academic support for Grade 9 learners, who are set to move into senior secondary pathways in 2025. These transition exams are a key part of Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), determining placement into specialized tracks such as STEM, arts, or social sciences. To ensure readiness, schools are offering extra coaching sessions, weekend tutorials, and personalized revision programs targeting core subjects like mathematics, English, and integrated science.
According to the Ministry of Education’s 2025 academic calendar, Term 1 began on January 6 and will end on April 4, with Term 2 running from April 28 to August 1. The transition exams are expected to take place in Term 3, prompting schools to begin early preparations. Teachers are using formative assessments and learner portfolios to guide coaching, while some institutions have partnered with NGOs and edtech platforms to provide digital learning resources.
A guide published by Teacher.co.ke emphasizes the importance of understanding the CBC placement process, which considers both academic performance and learner interests. Schools are also engaging parents to support home-based revision and career guidance. We want every learner to feel confident and informed about their next step, said a deputy headteacher from a public school in Lang’ata. With Nairobi leading the way in CBC implementation, the extra coaching initiative is expected to improve transition outcomes and reduce anxiety among students.