Career paths · 3 min read
Private school teaching jobs in Kenya: why TSC registration still matters
Why private school teachers must be registered with TSC too, who TSC refuses to register, and how to approach private schools.
Many trained teachers start in private schools while they wait for a TSC posting. A common belief is that private schools do not need TSC registration. The law says otherwise. Here is what the Teachers Service Commission Act requires and how to use it in your search.
Registration applies in private schools too
Section 23(2) of the TSC Act says a person shall not engage in the teaching service unless registered as a teacher under the Act. The Act defines the teaching service as all individuals registered by the Commission and engaged in the teaching profession, whether employed by the Commission or not (section 2).
So registration is about being a teacher, not about who pays you. A private school employs you directly, but you still need your TSC number.
Who can be registered
You are eligible if you are of good moral character and hold a relevant teaching certificate (section 26). The Commission must refuse registration to anyone who lacks the prescribed qualifications, is not of good moral character, has been convicted of a sexual offence or an offence against a learner, or has another conviction that makes them unfit to teach (section 27).
Falsely claiming to be a registered teacher is an offence, with a fine of up to KSh 100,000, up to twelve months in prison, or both (section 44(1)(b)).
How to approach private schools
- Make a list of schools within reach and check each one's website or notice board for vacancies.
- Send a one page CV with your TSC number, subjects, and teaching practice school and classes.
- Bring your certificates, TSC registration and a sample lesson plan to any interview.
- Ask for the contract in writing: salary, months paid, holidays and notice. Ask whether pay continues in the school holidays.
Pay and terms
Private schools set their own pay. They are still bound by the Employment Act: a written contract for jobs of three months or more, payment on the due date and notice rules. Compare an offer with TSC grade pay to see the gap you are accepting.
Sources and further reading
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Frequently asked questions
Do private school teachers need TSC registration in Kenya?
Yes. Section 23(2) of the TSC Act bars anyone from the teaching service unless registered, and the Act's definition covers teachers whether employed by TSC or not.
Who does TSC refuse to register?
People without the prescribed qualifications, not of good moral character, or convicted of a sexual offence or an offence against a learner, among others listed in section 27.
Do private schools pay in the holidays?
Terms vary by school. Ask for the contract in writing before you start.