CBC or Cambridge? Choosing the best curriculum for your child

By Wilson Mwangi 

Many parents in Kenya grapple with the choice of selecting the right educational path for their children. Currently, the two prominent options that stand out in the country are the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the Cambridge curriculum. Both approaches have their merits, but finding the best fit for your child requires careful consideration.

There is a prevailing misconception that students who pursue international curricula are inherently destined for success, gaining admission to prestigious universities abroad and achieving prosperous careers. Conversely, it is often believed that students following the national curriculum have comparatively less prospects for success due to perceived limitations of the national curriculum. However, these notions are misguided. As the well-known adage states, “All roads lead to Rome”. Therefore, parents need not be unduly concerned about the choice of curriculum for their children, as both pathways can lead to success.

A closer look at these two curricula may provide further guidance to help parents make an informed decision that caters for their child’s unique needs.

CBC places a strong emphasis on the mastery of specific skills and knowledge, adopting a student-centred approach that fosters personalised learning experiences and addresses individual strengths and weaknesses. This curriculum allows students to progress at their own pace, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of concepts before advancing.

By nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and practical skills applicable to real-world situations, CBC equips students with the tools necessary for success in the modern workforce. Its benefits include tailored learning experiences that promote individual growth, the ability for students to delve deeper into subjects at their own pace, integration of real-world applications, and a focus on mastery of skills and knowledge.

On the other hand, the Cambridge curriculum holds global recognition and offers a structured and comprehensive programme encompassing a broad range of subjects and assessments. Designed to develop students’ intellectual, social, and emotional skills, it prepares them for future educational endeavours and employment opportunities.

The advantages of the Cambridge curriculum include providing a globally recognised benchmark that facilitates international mobility, a rigorous assessment system that provides a robust evaluation of a student’s academic progress, a diverse range of subjects allowing learners to explore multiple disciplines and discover their passions, as well as a strong emphasis on higher-order thinking skills to foster intellectual growth and analytical abilities.

When selecting the best curriculum for your child, it is crucial to understand their learning style and assess their strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. Consider their preferred mode of learning, whether they thrive in a structured environment or prefer more flexibility. Evaluating their long-term goals is also essential. Reflect on your child’s aspirations and future educational or career paths, and consider which curriculum aligns better with their goals and provides appropriate qualifications or certifications. Additionally, take into account your child’s individual needs, such as special education requirements or specific extracurricular interests, and evaluate how each curriculum accommodates these needs.

Seeking input from educators is vital as well. Consult with teachers, academic advisors, and school administrators who are familiar with your child’s learning style. Their insights can provide valuable guidance in the decision-making process. Furthermore, visiting schools that implement different curricula and engaging with parents whose children are enrolled in those programmes can offer first-hand insights into the strengths and limitations of each curriculum. By considering these factors and gathering relevant information, parents can make a well-informed choice that maximises their child’s educational experience.

At Makini Schools, we are proud to offer both the CBC and the Cambridge curriculum, recognising the value of providing diverse educational options to meet the unique needs of every child. We believe that true academic excellence lies in understanding that each learner is an individual with distinct talents, interests, and aspirations.

By offering both curricula, we empower parents to make informed decisions based on their child’s learning style, future goals, and academic preferences. Our commitment to academic excellence extends beyond mere options. We prioritise a holistic approach that combines the best elements of both curricula, fostering personalised learning, critical thinking, and real-world application within a rigorous academic framework.

At Makini Schools, we strive to create an educational environment that inspires innovation, nurtures individual potential, and equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.

In choosing between CBC and the Cambridge curriculum, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Every child is unique, and their educational journey should reflect that. Ultimately, the key lies in finding an educational approach that nurtures their strengths, stimulates their curiosity, and equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive.

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The writer is the Executive Head, CBC, Makini School Ngong Road