As parents and guardians begin taking their children for form one admissions at various schools in the country starting Monday, January 15, it is crucial to ensure they are well-equipped for a smooth transition into secondary school life.
Beyond the excitement of a new academic journey, parents must be aware of the things their students need when joining form one.
The checklist for form one admission encompasses a blend of administrative essentials, personal requirements, and the all-important school uniform.
Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items to carry when joining form one.
Form One Admission Requirements
1. Admission Letter: The admission letter is proof that the student was admitted in that particular school.
The letters will also be used to countercheck if the student has carried all the needed requirements. Most common term used for this document is the ‘Calling Letter.’
2. Birth Certificate (Photocopy). This is essential for identification purposes.
The copies are also kept by the school for KCSE registration when the students get to form four.
3. KCPE Result Slip (Photocopy). Students are normally required to avail a copy of their KCPE result slips during admission to form one.
4. Duly Filled Medical Form by a Government Health Institution: Prioritizing health, the medical form provides necessary information to ensure the well-being of students within the school environment.
This usually involves a comprehensive medical examination of the student, having the doctor verify any disability, allergies or health complications among others.
The medical form helps the school administration to provide necessary assistance for students with complications.
5. ID Photocopy of Parent/Guardian.
Most schools ask for a copy of the identification card and contacts of the student’s family or guardian.
Such information is crucial for communication in case of emergencies or any other school-related communication to the student’s family.
Academic Requirements
1.Bible- A Bible is mandatory during the CRE lessons. Most schools use the Revised Standard Bible although this might vary for different schools.
2.Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary – 9th Edition.
3.Kamusi Teule ya Kiswahili.
4.Four Figure Mathematical (KNEC Revised Edition) – 7th Ed. 2017.
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5.Calculator
6.Geometrical Sets
7.Comprehensive Secondary Atlas
8.Spring File
Personal Needs
Aside from academic requirements, high schools in their calling letters indicate personal items they expect the students to carry for admissions.
For starters, shoes. From low-heeled black leather shoes for formal occasions to rubber shoes for comfort, the footwear selection caters to both style and practicality.
However, it is important to pay attention to this requirement as some schools’ direct parents to buy colored shoes depending on their institution’s preference.
Students are also required to carry a cup, plate, and spoon for meals. Some schools would specify if they allow, plastic, melamine or aluminum plates.
The color, type and quantity may vary with different schools, but these items are essential during mealtimes.
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Some schools especially those in areas prone to rainfall ask parents and guardians to buy their children gumboots, a raincoat or umbrella during admission. This is to ensure students remain comfortable and healthy during rainy seasons.
Nevertheless, those joining boarding schools will need a mattress, blankets, basins, bucket, bed covers and towel.
Note that most boarding schools specify the exact color of beddings required and for some even where to buy. This helps the schools maintain uniformity even in the dormitories.
They must also have slippers, washing soaps, bathing soaps, body oil, shoe polish and brush and a mosquito net.
Parents are also advised to buy grooming items like handkerchiefs, a mirror, scratcher, and comb.
Uniform
The most obvious requirement is the school uniform which usually comprise of long or short-sleeved shirts, trousers or skirts, jumpers, track suits, and socks.
The colors and design vary depending on the school.
Further, while parents pay for the uniforms, they are usually ready and available when the student joins and are issued during admission day.