Only seven public schools make it to the top 100 list in KCPE

Only seven public schools made it to the list of the best 100 schools in this year’s Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination.

The list of top schools, which had a mean score of 370, was dominated by private schools which are better-equipped and have adequate teachers and classrooms — giving students from wealthy homes an edge in the race for top national schools.

When the government introduced free primary education (FPE) in 2003, school enrolment almost tripled with facilities and resources not expanding as fast. None of Nairobi public schools was ranked among the top 100.

Kathigiri B Primary School in Meru County emerged top in public schools with a mean score of 404 and was ranked 7th nationally. Bishop Muge Memorial School in Nandi, with a mean score 390, was ranked number 44 nationally.

Ikombe Primary School In Machakos County and Webuye AC in Bungoma tied at position 54 with a mean score of 389.

Kipkeino Primary School in Uasin Gishu had a mean score of 388 and was ranked position 66.

READ: Battle for top schools as more candidates pass KCPE exam

Kamoiwo Prep  in Nandi North tied at position 73 with St Peter Mumias in Kakamega with a mean score of 386.

Fred’s Academy in Meru County was the best school nationally with a mean score of 419 marks. Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i said public schools which performed well will be provided with funds to support their infrastructure.

“We will give these schools necessary support so that they can continue to post good results in national examinations,” said Dr Matiang’i.
The country needs 80,000 more teachers to make up the shortfall in personnel.

Dr Matiang’i said the government will work towards improving the welfare of teachers so that they can focus on their job.

He said that last year the ministry exposed a scandal where some private schools operated multiple examination centres with the aim of recording high marks in national examinations.