In the Kenyan public education system, teacher promotions are executed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). The promotions are done competitively after advertisements of available vacancies. There are two types of TSC promotions; common cadre and competitive promotions.

Common cadre promotions are automatic.

Here’s a breakdown of what applies regarding automatic promotion from Job Group B5 to C2:

1. Job Group B5 to C2: Not an Automatic Promotion

• Promotion from **B5 to C2 is not automatic. Teachers in B5 (commonly Primary Teacher II) must first be promoted to C1 (Primary Teacher I), and then to C2 (Senior Teacher II).
• These promotions depend on merit, experience, and availability of vacancies, as per TSC policy.

2. Promotion Criteria Include:

• Minimum Years of Service: Typically, a teacher must serve a minimum of 3 years in the current grade before being considered for promotion.
• Performance Appraisal: Active participation in the Teacher Performance Appraisal and Development (TPAD) system.
• Qualifications: Relevant academic and professional qualifications (e.g., P1 Certificate, Diploma, or Degree in Education).
• TSC Promotions Guidelines: Promotion to C2 typically targets Senior Teacher II positions, which are competitive and require an application.

3. Recent Updates

As of recent TSC announcements (2023–2024), the Commission has been working to clear backlogs in teacher promotions, but it still requires formal applications and interviews for most positions from C1 upward.

Summary:

• B5 to C1: Requires application but may be more procedural for those with necessary qualifications.
• C1 to C2: Not automatic — must apply and compete based on merit and vacancies.