(Research Journal, 2014-11) Gathumbi, Agnes M. W.; Bwire, Adelheid M.; Roy-Campbell, Zaline M.
There have been concerns about the declining standards of English in Kenyan secondary schools. A study was
conducted to generate baseline data that would guide development of English language benchmarks. Its aim
was to identify difficulties or challenges teachers of English face when teaching English and areas of focus for
improving the teaching and learning of English in Kenyan secondary schools. The study also aimed at
establishing areas of learners’ weaknesses. Data were collected using a questionnaire. Findings indicated
teaching and learning of English would improve if based on set standards. There is also need to revisit teacher
preparation and professional development programmes, with the aim of improving teacher training and
addressing the identified challenges. Teacher educators’ training capacity is lacking in some skills and needs
to be developed further.