National School Safety Policy Alignment with Risk Management Practices in School Environment in Secondary Schools in Kericho County, Kenya

Abstract

Ensuring the safety of schools is crucial for fostering an effective learning environment. Governments globally have introduced various policies and initiatives to enhance school safety. This study investigated the adherence of safety practices in secondary schools in Bureti Sub-County, Kericho County, Kenya, to national school safety policy. Employing a descriptive survey design, the research sampled seven secondary schools, seven principals, twenty teachers, an education officer and two hundred students, using a questionnaire, interviews, and observation checklists for data collection. Data revealed that many risk management practices did not align with established safety standards, indicating significant gaps in both physical and social environments. Most stakeholders have not gotten training on school safety practices. The study emphasizes the need for schools to enhance their infrastructure to meet required safety standards and suggests exploring resource generation to improve safety measures. A safe and secure school environment is vital for increasing learner enrolment, retention, and completion rates, ultimately contributing to higher achievement and quality education. In conclusion, prioritizing the safety of learners and staff is essential for fostering a comfortable learning atmosphere.