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

Ensuring school safety is of paramount importance in creating a conducive learning environment. Governments around the world have implemented policies and programs to promote school safety. This study purposed to investigate whether secondary schools observe the risk management practices in school environment as indicated in the national school safety policy document in Bureti Sub- County, Kericho County, Kenya. This study employed Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of Needs theory (1943) and General Systems Theory by Ludwig von Bertalanffy (1968). This study used a descriptive survey design. The sample comprised of 7 secondary schools, 7 principals, 20 teachers, 1 education officer and 180 learners. Questionnaires, interviews and observation checklists were utilized as data collection tools. Data was analysed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Findings revealed that most practices in learning environment do not align with requirements in the school safety standards manual. The findings also indicated that schools should improve their physical and social environment. School infrastructures should be built to the required standards so as to create conducive learning environment. Schools should explore avenues to generate their own resources to improve on the safety status. Safe and secure school environment facilitates increased learner enrolment, retention and completion rates hence high achievement and quality education. In conclusion, prioritizing the safety of learners and staff is essential for fostering a comfortable learning atmosphere.