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A guide for parents

Help your child choose with confidence, without choosing for them.

The three pathways in plain words

In Senior School, learners follow one of three pathways. Each one groups related subjects and the careers they lead to.

  • Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

    Develop competencies in scientific inquiry, technological innovation, mathematical reasoning, and systematic problem-solving. Kenya's fastest-growing sector with the highest career demand.

  • Arts & Sports Science

    Develop competencies in creative expression, physical excellence, cultural awareness, and effective communication. Kenya's creative and sports industries are expanding globally.

  • Social Sciences (Humanities & Business)

    Develop competencies in critical thinking, social understanding, ethical reasoning, economic analysis, and entrepreneurial thinking. The backbone of Kenya's governance and business ecosystem.

Supporting, not steering

  • Ask what your child enjoys and why before you mention any job title.
  • Let them try the interest quiz and the subject builder on their own, then look at the results together.
  • Talk about what a career involves day to day, including the training it needs and where it is done.
  • Treat a first choice as a starting point. Interests change, and it is fine to compare two or three options.

Reading the interest quiz

The quiz gives a three-letter code from Holland's RIASEC model: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising and Conventional. The first letter is the strongest. It describes the kind of activity your child enjoys. It does not say what they are good at, and it is not a test result.

A code of "SAI" for example points to work that involves people, creativity and curiosity. Several careers can fit one code, and one career can suit more than one code.

Questions to ask your child's school

  • Which pathways and subject combinations does the school offer? Availability can differ from school to school.
  • How and when are pathway and subject choices made, and can they be reviewed?
  • Who can my child talk to about careers: a teacher, a counsellor, or both?
  • What do the official guidelines say about the rules for combinations this year?

Tafuta Career is a guidance tool. Official rules for pathways and subject selection come from the Ministry of Education and your child's school, and they can change. Please confirm them there before any decision is final.