BOM teachers, or Board of Management teachers, are educators employed by the Boards of Management (BOM) in Kenyan public schools. They play a critical role in bridging the gap created by the shortage of government-employed teachers, ensuring the smooth delivery of education in both primary and secondary schools.
They are not directly employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), the government body responsible for hiring and managing teachers in Kenya. Instead, they are hired and paid by individual school management boards, often through funds raised by parents or other school revenue streams.
Roles and Responsibilities
BOM teachers are tasked with delivering quality education, just like their counterparts employed by the government. Their key responsibilities include preparing lesson plans, teaching students, assessing academic performance, and participating in co-curricular activities. In many cases, they take on additional roles to support the school’s administrative or extracurricular functions, reflecting their integral role in maintaining the school’s operations.
Recruitment of BOM Teachers
The school’s Board of Management manages the recruitment process, which advertises vacancies and shortlists candidates. The hiring process often prioritizes qualifications, experience, and the candidate’s ability to integrate into the school’s specific needs.
Candidates must hold relevant teaching qualifications, such as a diploma or degree in education, and be registered with the TSC. However, unlike TSC-employed teachers, BOM teachers may not undergo the same extensive vetting process.
 Salary and Benefits
The salaries of BOM teachers vary significantly depending on the school and its financial capacity. Schools in well-resourced areas may offer higher pay, while those in economically disadvantaged regions may provide modest compensation. On average, they earn between Sh10,000 and Sh25,000 per month.
Also Read: BOM Teachers Salaries in Nairobi
These salaries are often funded through parental contributions and government grants, and delays in payment are not uncommon. Unlike TSC-employed teachers, they typically do not receive benefits such as medical insurance, pensions, or professional development opportunities.
Challenges Faced by BOM Teachers
They face numerous challenges, including job insecurity, delayed payments, and limited career growth opportunities. They also work under conditions where resources may be scarce, particularly in underfunded schools. Despite these challenges, many them remain committed to their roles, driven by their passion for education and dedication to their students.
Importance of BOM Teachers in Kenya’s Education System
They are essential to Kenya’s education system, especially in regions where government-employed teacher numbers are insufficient. By filling staffing gaps, they ensure students have access to education and help maintain acceptable teacher-student ratios.
Their role becomes particularly significant in rural and marginalized areas, where finding qualified teachers can be difficult. These educators often go above and beyond to create a positive learning environment despite the challenges they face.
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