The pay scales for primary vs secondary school teachers in Kenya are structured but notably different. Whether you’re entering the profession or considering a career switch, knowing where you fall on the TSC grading system helps in planning your future.
Let’s dive into a clear teacher salary comparison Kenya, based on the most recent TSC pay structure 2025.
Understanding TSC Job Groups and Grades
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) uses a grading system that ranges from B5 to D5, replacing the old alphabetical job groups. The system considers factors like academic qualifications, years of service, and responsibility.
Primary School Teachers
Primary teachers mostly fall between grades B5 and C2, depending on promotions and responsibilities.
Secondary School Teachers
Secondary teachers, especially those with degrees, usually start at C2 and can rise to D5, particularly if in administrative roles.
📄 Official reference: TSC Salary Scales and Allowances 2023–2025
Basic Salary Comparison: Primary vs. Secondary (2025)
| Grade | Position | Primary School Teacher | Secondary School Teacher |
|---|---|---|---|
| B5 | Teacher II (Entry) | KSh 21,756 – KSh 27,195 | Not applicable |
| C1 | Teacher I | KSh 27,195 – KSh 33,994 | KSh 27,195 – KSh 33,994 |
| C2 | Senior Teacher II | KSh 34,955 – KSh 43,694 | Entry for graduate teachers |
| C3 | Senior Teacher I / Senior Master III | KSh 43,154 – KSh 53,943 | KSh 43,154 – KSh 53,943 |
| C4 | Deputy Headteacher II / Senior Master II | Rare | KSh 52,308 – KSh 65,385 |
| D1–D5 | Principals / Senior Admin | Rare | Up to KSh 157,656 |
📌 Reference: Kenya Gazette Salary Guidelines 2024
Why the Pay Difference?
The pay difference between primary and secondary teachers often boils down to:
- Academic Qualifications: Most secondary teachers hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Responsibility and Workload: Secondary education involves subject specialization and exam marking.
- Administrative Roles: More senior positions are common in secondary school setups.
- Promotion Path: Secondary teachers progress faster due to structured career paths.
This makes secondary teachers eligible for higher grades and therefore higher pay.
Allowances: What Teachers Receive Besides Basic Pay
Both categories benefit from teaching allowances in Kenya, though amounts may vary.
| Allowance Type | Urban Rate (KSh) | Rural Rate (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| House Allowance | 16,500 – 50,000 (based on job group and location) | 7,500 – 20,000 |
| Hardship Allowance | Up to 38,100 | Only for designated hardship areas |
| Commuter Allowance | KSh 4,000 – KSh 16,000 | Same |
| Responsibility Allowance | For headteachers/principals | Varies |
More info: Public Service Allowances Policy
Primary Teachers: Career Path & Pay Expectations
Primary teachers with P1 certificates are slowly being phased out in favor of diploma-holders. Their salary caps off lower unless promoted into headteacher or deputy roles.
- Most max out around C2–C3 unless retrained or upgraded
- Harder to reach D1–D5 levels unless in unique roles
🧑🏫 “The TSC plans to promote 36,000 teachers in 2025, giving some primary teachers hope for upward mobility.”
Source: Nation Africa
Secondary Teachers: Pathway to Better Pay
Degree holders start at C2 and with consistency can rise to D5. These teachers also benefit from TSC promotions tied to:
- School performance
- Experience
- Further qualifications (e.g., master’s degrees)
A high school principal at D5 can earn up to KSh 157,656, excluding allowances.
Wrapping It All Up
Whether you’re a primary or secondary teacher, your earnings are shaped by job group, academic credentials, and your commitment to career growth. While secondary teachers typically earn more, primary teachers are not locked out of career progression—especially with TSC’s push for structured promotions.
Understanding the pay scales for primary vs secondary school teachers in Kenya is essential for making informed career decisions.
