Subjects in the CBC Curriculum (2025)

The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) represents a transformative approach to education in Kenya. It shifts the focus from rote memorization to developing skills and competencies essential for 21st-century learners.

What Makes CBC Different from 8-4-4?

Unlike the 8-4-4 system, which was largely teacher-centered and examination-oriented, the CBC is learner-focused. It aims to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in students.

Here are some key differences:

• Structure: CBC follows a 2-6-6-3 model (2 years pre-primary, 6 years primary, 6 years secondary, and 3 years tertiary) compared to 8-4-4 (8 years primary, 4 years secondary, and 4 years university).
• Focus: CBC emphasizes competency over cramming knowledge, ensuring learners gain practical skills and apply them in real-life scenarios.
• Learner-Centered: The curriculum encourages active participation by learners rather than passive instruction by teachers.

Let’s dive into the specific subjects offered across different grades under CBC. I will also give more information on which subjects has been merged, to streamline the teaching and learning process.

Subjects in the CBC Curriculum

Grade 1–3 (Junior Primary)

At the junior primary level, the focus is on foundational skills and exploration. Learners study the following subjects:

1. Mathematics: Basic numeracy skills.
2. English: Language skills in speaking, reading, and writing.
3. Kiswahili: National language literacy.
4. Religious Education: Islamic (IRE), Christian (CRE), or Hindu (HRE) based on the learner’s faith.
5. Environmental Activities: Basic awareness of the environment and sustainability. (Merged with Hygiene and Nutrition activities)
6. Creative Activities: Introduction to art, music, and drama to enhance creativity.

Grade 4–6 (Senior Primary)

As learners advance, the curriculum expands to include more practical and social subjects:

1. Mathematics: Advanced numeracy concepts.
2. English: Further language development.
3. Kiswahili: Proficiency in the national language.
4. Religious Education: IRE, CRE, or HRE based on faith.
5. Agriculture and Nutrition: Basics of farming and healthy eating habits. (Merging of two subjects: Agriculture and Home Science)
6. Social Studies: Understanding communities, governance, and global awareness.
7. Creative Arts: Enhanced skills in art, music, and performing arts.
8. Science and Technology: Introduction to scientific concepts and basic technological skills.

Grade 7–9 (Junior Secondary)

At this level, the curriculum emphasizes technical skills, advanced academics, and creativity:

1. Mathematics: Higher-level problem-solving.
2. English: Advanced language skills.
3. Kiswahili: Mastery of Kiswahili.
4. Integrated Science: Combines biology, chemistry, and physics. (Merged with Health Education).
5. Pre-Technical Studies: Basic knowledge of technical fields like engineering and design. (Merging of three subjects: Pre technical studies, Computer Science and with Business studies).
6. Visual Arts: Advanced art skills, including drawing, painting, and digital art. (Merging of Performing arts, sports & PE)
7. Social Studies: Deeper understanding of history, geography, and societal structures. (Merging of Social Studies and Life Skills)
8. Agriculture and Nutrition: Practical farming techniques and nutrition studies.
9. Religious Education: IRE, CRE, or HRE to nurture moral values and spirituality.

NB: No optional subjects.

Grade 10–12 (Senior Secondary)

Why CBC Matters

The CBC curriculum is a bold step toward preparing learners for the demands of the modern world. By equipping them with competencies instead of just knowledge, it ensures they are ready to tackle real-life challenges and excel in their areas of interest.

Mwalimu App supports both CBC and 8-4-4 curricula, making it easier for teachers to generate essential documents like lesson plans and records of work.