WITHOUT REGRET: My Journey from 8-4-4 to IGCSE​

Mount Kenya Academy only admitted students to the IGCSE curriculum in Year 9 until recently when doors opened to younger scholars in Year 7 and Year 8. This development couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I was in 8-4-4 and working hard to score well in KCPE. No matter the grade I scored, a sour taste was always left in my mouth. Pressure mounted in me as the national exams kept getting closer. I felt stress levels building up and I couldn’t handle it any more. I switched to a new system.

Yes, it was a bit pricey but 100% worth it. In IGCSE, you have more room to go at your own pace. Further, the content is not meant for cramming but to gain deep understanding. This way you end up learning more. IGCSE works not in grading exams scores alone but other aspects of learning including teamwork and concentration.

As I stand now, I have experienced not just progressive improvement in my grades but also a better overall mental health. Shifting from 8-4-4 to IGCSE still remains one the best decisions I have ever made.

 Payden Amos, Year 8