Last reviewed: 25 October 2026
Demand for extra support in CBC subjects is strong, especially around KPSEA, KJSEA and the move into Senior School. A well-run tuition or learning centre can serve that demand. But it has to be set up properly, because education businesses in Kenya face specific rules. This guide covers the key steps from registration to your first learners.
On this page
1. Decide what kind of centre you are
Be clear about your offer before spending money. Options include after-school homework support for primary learners, subject coaching for junior and senior school, weekend classes, adult and private-candidate classes, or skills such as coding and music. A narrow, clear offer is easier to market and staff than “all subjects for all grades”.
2. Understand the holiday tuition rule
Section 37 of the Basic Education Act, 2013 states that no pupil shall be subjected to holiday tuition, with a fine of up to KSh 100,000, up to one year in prison, or both. In a July 2025 memo, the Ministry of Education restated the ban for public and private basic education institutions, allowing only limited, supervised, non-commercial remedial support. Do not plan paid holiday classes for school learners; take legal advice if unsure. Many centres focus on term-time evening and weekend support, enrichment activities and skills courses instead. Our page on holiday tuition and camps discusses this further.
3. Register the business
Register a business name, partnership or limited company through the Business Registration Service on eCitizen (BRS). You will also need a KRA PIN for the business and should understand your tax obligations from the start. A limited company costs more to run but separates your personal finances from the business.
4. Get county permits
Your county government issues a single business permit, and may require fire safety, health and planning approval for the premises. Requirements and fees differ by county, so visit or call the county revenue office before signing a lease. If you plan to register as an institution offering formal education, ask the sub-county education office what registration applies to your model.
5. Choose safe, suitable premises
Look for a location close to schools or estates, with safe access for children, good lighting and ventilation, clean toilets and enough space for small groups. Ground-floor rooms are easier for parents and safer in emergencies. Keep a visitors’ book and a clear pick-up procedure so children only leave with authorised adults.
6. Hire and check tutors carefully
Parents pay for results and safety. Prefer trained teachers; check certificates, references and, for anyone working with children, a certificate of good conduct. Agree written terms on pay per session, lesson preparation and conduct. Our guides to becoming a tutor and tutor rates in Kenya give useful benchmarks.
7. Set prices that cover your costs
Add up rent, tutor pay, materials, power, internet and marketing per month, then divide by realistic learner numbers to find your break-even fee. Group classes keep prices affordable for parents while paying tutors fairly; one-to-one sessions are charged at a premium. Offer monthly or termly packages so income is predictable.
8. Build a learning system, not just lessons
Start each learner with a short diagnostic test, set targets, and send parents a brief progress note every few weeks. Use competency-based practice in the style of national assessments; the CBC Challenge quizzes and our revision guides are free tools learners can use between sessions.
9. Find your first learners
- Run a free trial week or an open day.
- Share helpful tips in parent WhatsApp groups rather than only adverts.
- Ask satisfied parents to refer friends, and reward referrals with a discount.
- List your centre on our tutors page.
Start small, track results honestly and grow as your reputation grows. A centre known for real progress fills itself through word of mouth.
Want 10 more questions like this? Get the Monthly Pass + Holiday Packs for KSh 550.
Get the Monthly Pass + Holiday Packs →