What usually happens
In practice, readmission is rarely automatic: schools ask for clearance letters or a fee. Nothing in the re-entry guidelines allows that, so ask for any refusal in writing and take it to the Sub-County Director of Education in the same week.
The law that protects you
- Constitution of Kenya, Art. 53(1)(b)
- Every child has a right to free and compulsory basic education.
- Basic Education Act, 2013
- The State must provide free and compulsory basic education, and no learner may be excluded for a reason the law does not allow.
- Children Act, 2022
- A child's right to education and to protection from discrimination is protected, including pregnant learners and young mothers.
- Ministry of Education school re-entry guidelines
- A girl who left school because of pregnancy must be readmitted to the same school, and cannot be forced to undergo a medical test first.
What you can do
- 1.
Speak to your class teacher or head teacher in writing, and keep a dated copy of the letter.
- 2.
If you are refused, write to the Sub-County Director of Education and ask the school for its complaints and appeals procedure.
- 3.
A public school may only charge the levies approved for the year. Ask for a written breakdown of any amount you are told to pay.
- 4.
Ask the Sub-County Children's Officer, your chief, or a free legal aid organisation to write on your behalf.
If you are refused
If a school locks you out or demands payment for readmission, that is likely unlawful. Note the person's name, the date, exactly what was said, and any witnesses. Report it within days to the Sub-County Director of Education, the Teachers Service Commission, and a free legal aid provider.