TSC Circular On Learner Safety .
TSC Circular On Learner Safety .
Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of students in schools is essential for their overall growth and academic success. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has issued a new circular addressing various aspects of learner safety in educational institutions. This circular is guided by the TSC Act of 2012, the Education Act, and Article 53 of the Kenyan Constitution, which provide clear rules against cruel treatment or punishment.
 Bullying
Schools must take proactive measures to eliminate all forms of bullying—verbal, physical, and psychological. Student leaders should not have the authority to punish other students. Addressing bullying promptly ensures a safe learning environment.
Corporal Punishment
Corporal punishment is strictly prohibited in schools. Teachers found using corporal punishment face disciplinary or legal consequences. Keeping punishment tools like sticks is considered a professional violation. Upholding this rule protects students from physical harm.
 Forced Repetition
Forcing students to repeat grades is against the Basic Education Act. Instead, schools should support learners in progressing to the next class and completing their educational cycle. This approach encourages continuous academic development without unnecessary setbacks.
 Holiday Tuition
Schools must follow the term dates set by the Ministry of Education. Holding students during holidays or recalling them before the official opening dates is not allowed. Respecting these dates ensures students get the necessary breaks and family time.
Prescribed Learning Hours
Schools should adhere to the prescribed reporting and leaving times. This consistency helps maintain a structured education delivery, benefiting both students and teachers.
Safety Standards
School facilities, including classrooms, dormitories, and playgrounds, must meet safety standards. Providing a safe physical environment is crucial for effective learning. Schools need to regularly inspect and maintain these facilities.
Sexual Abuse
Any allegations of sexual abuse, whether inside or outside the school, must be immediately investigated, documented, and addressed. Headteachers and educators have a duty to protect students from sexual abuse, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
Drug and Substance Misuse
Schools should implement strict policies to protect students from drug and substance misuse. Expanding guidance and counseling programs can educate students, parents, and guardians about the dangers of substance misuse. These programs play a key role in prevention and support.
Harmful Cultural Practices
School administrators should collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address harmful cultural practices that negatively impact students’ wellbeing and academic development. Practices such as child labor, early marriages, and exploitation must be eradicated to ensure students’ safety and academic progress.
By adhering to the guidelines in the TSC Circular on Learner Safety, schools can create a secure and conducive environment for learning. Ensuring student safety is a collective responsibility that involves teachers, administrators, parents, and the community. Implementing these measures will foster a safe and supportive atmosphere that enhances student growth and academic achievement.
