Teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) across Kenya dedicate countless hours to nurturing young minds. But even the most devoted educators need time to rest, recharge, or attend to personal matters.
TSC recognizes this through a range of leave options designed to support teachers’ well-being while maintaining smooth school operations.
According to information available on the TSC portal, teachers can apply for various types of leave depending on their needs and circumstances.
These include annual leave, compassionate leave, compulsory leave, and special provisions such as leave outside Kenya and leave for spouses of diplomats.
Annual Leave
Every teacher employed by the Commission is entitled to a maximum of 30 days of annual leave with full pay for each calendar year worked.
However, the leave must be taken during school holidays and cannot be accumulated for use in subsequent years.
Also Read: How to Resign from TSC as a Teacher Without Losing Your Benefits or Reputation
This ensures that schools remain adequately staffed during term time while allowing teachers to rest during school breaks.
Compassionate Leave
Life’s unexpected events can require immediate attention.
The TSC allows teachers up to 15 days of compassionate leave per year to address emergencies, such as bereavement, illness, or the hospitalization of dependents.
Applications for compassionate leave must be submitted to the head of the institution or an authorized agent for approval.
Compulsory Leave
The TSC Secretary may place a teacher on compulsory leave with full pay. This leave, which cannot exceed 30 days, is typically issued to allow investigations into allegations made against a teacher.
The decision must be made in writing, clearly stating the reasons for the leave. The school Boards of Management do not have the authority to send a teacher on compulsory leave.
Leave Outside Kenya and Spouses of Diplomats
Teachers wishing to spend their leave outside the country must first obtain written permission from the Commission.
Also Read: 10 Prohibited Behaviors for Every Registered TSC Teacher
Educators whose spouses serve as diplomats are eligible for unpaid leave for the duration of the spouse’s foreign assignment, provided the application is accompanied by the spouse’s posting letter.
Applying for Leave
The TSC has streamlined the leave application process through its online portal, making it easier for teachers to manage their requests. To apply:
- Log in to the TSC leave application website.
- Click the ‘+’ sign on the dashboard to begin a new application.
- Select the leave type from the dropdown menu; options include annual, maternity, paternity, sick, examination, terminal, or official duty leave.
- Enter the leave dates and any relevant remarks.
Upload supporting documents (if required) before submitting the application for approval.
Through these clearly defined policies, the TSC aims to ensure that teachers’ professional and personal needs are balanced fairly and efficiently.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
