The Shift to Student-Centered Learning

Education in Kenya has undergone a massive transformation over the years. There has been much progress, many challenges and constant adaptation. Makini School has become known for its innovative and unique approach to learning. We focus on the holistic development of our learners, work hard to ensure that our education is affordable and we always strive for excellence. From our teachers and facilities to our co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, we aim to nurture, mold and empower our learners for success later on in life.

The shift from teacher-led instruction to a student-centered approach

Part of our success is our distinct approach to learning. Unlike traditional models that focus solely on academic achievement, we offer a varied strategy that revolves around critical thinking, creativity, problem solving and practical skills. In the past, learning has been led by teachers and the students were merely vessels to absorb the information taught. However, for many learners, this traditional education system isn’t working and too many are falling through the cracks.

Students tend to be more interested in learning and participating in the classroom when they are given the opportunity to interact with each other and actively engage in their own education. The shift from teacher-led instruction to a student-centered approach moves away from covering content to employing content. This has resulted in learners developing the much-needed skills that are applicable in the real world.

How does the student-centered approach impact learners?

We believe that this approach is critical to a child’s growth. It encourages them to explore their interests, develop diverse skills and have the tools to adapt to a variety of situations. When learning is focused around the learner, they are more prepared for future challenges. It also fosters self-development and above all, makes learning enjoyable.

How do teachers effectively transition to a student-centered classroom?

Shifting the focus from the teacher to the learner requires the teacher’s role to change from leader or lecturer to a guide or mentor. A teacher’s role in this type of classroom requires them to identify their learners’ interests, give them ample opportunity to pursue them and then provide feedback and support. This educational change will help them develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills as they journey through their school career.

When learners and teachers work together to set a goal and lay a path to achieve that goal, the teacher can guide them and provide mentorship, rather than instructing them to perform in a certain way.

While the shift can be significant for some teachers, at Makini School, we are committed to employing staff that thrive in this type of environment. After all, passionate teachers develop passionate learners who become successful.

What challenges do schools face in adopting a student-centered approach?

Some of the challenges include:

Learner mindsets: shifting from passive, teacher-led learning to active participation and self-directed learning can be difficult for learners. If learners were used to the more traditional learning approach, they often struggle to adapt to this very different learning environment.
Time constraints: teachers are required to juggle multiple demands from managing the number of learners in their classroom as well as the projects. Time management is crucial for educators as they have to work with each individual and give each one enough attention and assistance.
Consistency: each teacher is different and therefore their ways of implementing learner-centered instruction varies. It is important for teachers to be consistent to avoid creating mixed messages for their learners.

How do we measure success at Makini School?

To measure and evaluate the success of our efforts in nurturing confidence in learners, we provide many opportunities, at every level, for learners to research, prepare and make presentations in class. This forms part of our continuous assessment in line with the assessment requirements of the CBC curriculum.

At Makini School, we are committed to fostering significant academic progress by leveraging date-driven insights. This allows us to progressively develop each learners’ competencies incrementally. Through cutting-edge technology and global standards in curriculum delivery, we ensure that each and every one of our learners are able to reach their full potential.

Get in touch with us today or book a visit to one of our schools to get a better understanding and feel for our campuses and the way we teach.

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Building Executive Function Skills in Primary School Children

February 10, 2026

Executive function skills are the mental processes that help children plan, focus, remember instructions and manage their behaviour. These skills act as the brain’s “control system,” guiding how children think, learn and interact with others. In primary school, strong executive function supports academic success as well as emotional maturity, independence and positive social behaviour. For parents and educators alike, understanding how these skills develop is critical to supporting child brain development in meaningful, practical ways. What Are Executive Function Skills? Executive function skills are commonly grouped into three core areas: 1. Working memory: This is the ability to hold and use information. For example, remembering multi-step instructions. 2. Cognitive flexibility. This is the ability to adapt, shift thinking and try new approaches. 3. Inhibitory control: This is the ability to pause, resist impulses and regulate behaviour. When a child remembers their homework, switches from maths to reading and waits their turn to speak, they are using executive functioning in kids in everyday situations. These skills develop gradually and are shaped by experience, guidance and environment. This is especially true during early and primary years. Read more on why early development is important. Why Executive Function Skills Matter in Primary School In school settings, executive skills directly affect learning as well as behaviour. · Working memory in children helps them to follow lessons · Self-regulation skills for students assists in managing emotions · Improving attention in school children is essential during tasks · Impulse control in classrooms helps to reduce disruptions Learners with strong executive functioning are better able to complete tasks, organise their work, manage frustration and collaborate with their peers. These skills also support independence and help children take responsibility for routines, deadlines and their personal behaviour. Key Challenges Children Might Face Some common signs of underdeveloped executive skills include: · Forgetting instructions or losing items · Struggling to switch between different tasks · Acting impulsively or interrupting the class · Difficulty managing emotions · Poor time awareness These challenges don’t mean that a child is lazy or incapable. They often reflect developing brain systems that simply need a little guidance and practice. How Parents Can Support Executive Function at Home Parents play a powerful role in shaping executive function. Simple daily strategies can be incorporated into their day to strengthen these skills naturally. Some helpful approaches include: 1. Create Structured Routines Consistent daily routines help children predict what comes next, strengthening organisation as well as emotional regulation. 2. Use Visual Schedules Charts or picture schedules support working memory in children by making expectations visible. 3. Play Memory and Focus Games Try matching card games, Simon Says, puzzles and sequencing games. These support attention, recall and flexible thinking. 4. Encourage Problem-Solving Let children help with cooking steps, packing school bags and planning simple outings. This builds independence and cognitive flexibility in primary education. When there is strong parental engagement, there is a direct impact on executive growth. Discover more on the impact of parental involvement . Classroom Strategies for Teachers Teachers are ideally positioned to reinforce executive skills on a daily basis. Some effective classroom strategies include: 1. Task chunking - Break assignments into smaller steps to reduce cognitive overload. 2. Use of timers and checklists – These are known to improve time awareness and self-regulation skills for students. 3. Positive Reinforcement - Praise effort, strategy and reflection, not just the outcomes. 4. Mindfulness and calm-down techniques - Simple breathing, quiet corners or reflection time can help strengthen emotional control and attention. These strategies are especially valuable in supporting impulse control in classrooms and improving overall learning flow. When to Seek Extra Help If challenges persist despite consistent support, children may benefit from professional assessment. Some signs for parents and educators to watch for include: · Chronic forgetfulness · Extreme impulsivity · Emotional dysregulation · Difficulty following basic routines Educational psychologists or SEN specialists can help identify neurodivergent patterns (such as ADHD) and guide tailored interventions. Early support ensures children build confidence rather than frustration. Encouraging Growth Through Play and Daily Practice Play is one of the most powerful tools for executive development. Activities that build executive function include: · Storytelling and role-play · Group games - Consider turn-taking or rule-based games · Pretend shops or restaurants · Reflection discussions about feelings or decisions These experiences strengthen executive functioning in kids in a natural and pressure-free way. Schools that prioritise early holistic learning , such as in strong preschool systems, give children a strong base for future academic success. Conclusion: Building Brains for Life Executive function skills are not fixed traits. They are trainable abilities that grow through consistent support, practice and patience. From working memory to impulse control, these skills shape how children learn, behave and relate to others. At Makini School we aim to create a supportive environment where our educators can nurture strong thinkers, confident learners and emotionally resilient students, building not just academic success, but lifelong capability. FAQs 1. What are the three main executive function skills in children? Working memory, cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control. 2. How can I tell if my child has weak executive functioning? Frequent forgetfulness, impulsivity, emotional difficulty and poor organisation are common signs. 3. What are fun activities to boost executive function in young children? Memory games, storytelling, puzzles, role-play and routine-based tasks. 4. How do executive function skills affect learning in school? They support focus, task completion, emotional control and classroom behaviour. 5. Can executive function skills be improved over time? Yes. With regular practice and supportive environments, executive skills develop steadily throughout childhood.