KICD alerts parents: avoid unapproved Grade 11 textbooks to save money

KICD has warned schools against the use of unapproved Grade 11 textbooks, saying the step is meant to protect parents from unnecessary costs.

What has been reported

According to Education News, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has issued a formal warning to all secondary schools that are considering or already using Grade 11 textbooks that have not been approved through the official curriculum review process. The institute stresses that reliance on such materials could lead parents to spend money on resources that do not align with the Competency-Based Education (CBE) standards for the current academic year.

The brief notice does not provide further details about which titles are affected, the timeline for compliance, or any penalties for non-compliance. KICD has not yet released an official list of approved publications, and schools are advised to await clarification before purchasing new textbooks. Parents are encouraged to check with their child’s school administration for guidance, while teachers are reminded to align lesson plans with the officially endorsed curriculum frameworks until the matter is resolved.

Why this warning matters for Kenyan families

For many Kenyan households, the cost of textbooks represents a significant portion of the education budget. When schools purchase books that have not been vetted by KICD, parents may end up paying for resources that are later deemed unsuitable, leading to wasted expenditure and the need to acquire replacement copies. Understanding the warning helps families to question any unexpected price hikes and to request proof that the materials conform to the CBE syllabus, thereby safeguarding limited household finances.

The warning also highlights the broader issue of textbook quality and relevance. Approved materials are designed to cover the required strands and sub-strands, ensuring that learners develop the competencies expected at Grade 11. When unapproved books omit key concepts or present outdated information, students may fall behind, affecting their performance in national assessments and their readiness for further study or the workplace. Parents who stay informed can advocate for the use of appropriate resources and avoid unnecessary stress.

Implications for teachers and schools

Teachers are the frontline of curriculum delivery, and the choice of textbook directly influences how they plan lessons across the various strands such as Literacy, Numeracy and Science. If a school adopts an unapproved text, teachers may find gaps between the content and the official CBE learning outcomes, forcing them to create supplementary materials or to adjust assessments. This extra workload can detract from instructional time and reduce the overall quality of learning experiences for the class.

School administrators should therefore verify that any new Grade 11 textbook has passed KICD’s approval process before authorising its purchase. Engaging with the curriculum office, consulting the official KICD website, and cross-checking the ISBN against the approved list are practical steps that can prevent costly errors. In the meantime, teachers can rely on the free resources already available on the CBCEduKenya portal, which align with the current CBE framework and can be used to fill any content gaps.

Keeping your child learning regardless of textbook status

Even without a brand-new textbook, learners can continue to progress by using the wide range of open-access materials that support the CBE strands. The CBCEduKenya website hosts downloadable notes, practice exercises and multimedia lessons for Grade 11 subjects, all mapped to the required sub-strands. Parents can encourage their children to explore these resources at home, especially during school holidays, to reinforce concepts such as algebraic reasoning, scientific inquiry and civic education.

In addition, community libraries and school resource centres often keep copies of older, approved textbooks that still cover the core competencies. Borrowing these books can provide a tangible reference while digital tools are used for interactive practice. Parents may also consider forming small study groups with other families, sharing notes and discussing challenging topics, which not only deepens understanding but also builds collaborative learning habits that are valued in the CBE approach.

Practical steps parents can take now

First, contact your child’s school to confirm whether the Grade 11 textbook currently in use has received KICD approval. Ask for the ISBN and compare it with any official list that may be posted on the KICD portal. If the book is not approved, request that the teacher supplement lessons with the free online materials available at Grade 10 resources or the relevant Grade 9 materials that align with the same strands. Doing so ensures continuity of learning while the school resolves the textbook issue.

Second, create a study schedule that incorporates both the approved content and any supplementary activities such as online quizzes, educational games and practical experiments. Allocate regular time slots during the week and use the school holidays for focused revision sessions. By combining structured home study with the free resources on the CBCEduKenya Somo AI platform, parents can monitor progress and address gaps before the next term begins. Regular review also helps children retain knowledge and builds confidence for upcoming examinations.