New Education Grading System: EEs Enter as As Exit in Kenya

Kenya’s education system is going through a major change as the traditional A, B, C, D, and E grades are being phased out. 

Under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), learners are now assessed using new grading terms. 

The most notable change is the introduction of EE (Exceeding Expectations) while the familiar A grade is no longer used.

The new grading system focuses on what a learner can do, not just how well they perform in exams. 

Instead of ranking students against each other, CBC checks skills, understanding, creativity, and problem-solving ability. 

Education experts say the old system placed too much pressure on exams and grades, which often left out important talents.

Under the new approach, learners are graded using four main levels. 

These are EE – Exceeding Expectations, ME – Meeting Expectations, AE – Approaching Expectations, and BE – Below Expectations. 

A learner who gets EE has shown strong understanding and can apply knowledge confidently. 

ME shows the learner has achieved what is required, while AE and BE help teachers know where support is needed.

The removal of the A grade has caused mixed reactions among parents and teachers. Some parents worry that without As, it will be hard to know who is the best performer. 

Others fear that competition, which once motivated learners, may reduce. However, education officials insist that CBC is not about competition but about growth and real-life skills.

Teachers say the new grading allows them to understand learners better. Instead of one final exam, assessment is done continuously. 

Classwork, projects, group activities, and practical tasks all contribute to the final grade. This helps identify a learner’s strengths early and provide help where needed.

Learners are also expected to benefit from reduced exam pressure. With EE replacing A, students are encouraged to focus on learning rather than cramming for tests. 

The system recognizes different abilities, including sports, arts, communication, and creativity.

The Ministry of Education has defended the changes, saying they prepare learners for real life and the job market. 

Officials explain that universities and training institutions will use detailed learner profiles rather than relying on a single exam grade.