Best schools to work at in UAE: Taaleem earns global recognition for teacher wellbeing
Taaleem in the UAE has been named among the world's best school groups for teachers to work at.
It recently earned Best School to Work Certified Group status for its outstanding leadership, working environment, school culture, and commitment to the wellbeing of its staff.
This recognition was awarded by T4 Education under its Best School to Work programme, which evaluates schools through an anonymous staff survey focused on leadership, collaboration, environment, and professional wellness.
To qualify as a certified group, over half of a school group's institutions must individually meet the high threshold for certification. The school group highlighted that it employs a range of initiatives to support teacher wellbeing, with a suite of measures that include access to online and in-person training via the Taaleem Teaching School, mental health support, wellness programmes, employee discounts, and regular medical check-ups.
Alan Williamson, Chief Executive Officer of Taaleem, said, 'The quality of a school never exceeds the quality — and wellbeing — of its teachers. At Taaleem, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture where educators feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive. By investing in their happiness, career progression, and continuous professional development, we empower them to deliver truly exceptional learning experiences.'
Daily check-ins, connecting with staff
Under Taaleem's ambit, the institutions recognised as the Best Schools to Work, include American Academy for Girls, Dubai British School Emirates Hills, Dubai British School Jumeira, Dubai British School Jumeirah Park, and Dubai Schools Al Khawaneej.
Rebecca Gray, Chief Education Officer at Taaleem, told Khaleej Times how wellbeing has been integrated into everyday leadership practices.
She said, 'Wellbeing is not a standalone initiative at Taaleem — it's part of our daily rhythm. Personally, I make time for small but intentional practices that help me stay centred and present, whether that's through reflective journalling, daily check-ins with colleagues, or simply prioritising time to connect meaningfully with our staff and students.'
Gray emphasised that the leadership teams strive to promote balance, highlighting that caring for one's own wellbeing is not merely beneficial but crucial to sustaining the energy and passion that is essential in the field of education.
'We also believe that it's okay to be vulnerable and to create circles of trust at all levels — the ability to be open and transparent in relation to coaching and mentoring. Our CEO is often heard saying 'we don't have to be sick to be better',' she added.
Developed in collaboration with over 200,000 educators, the Best School to Work programme is considered the gold standard of school culture assessment.
T4 Education's founder, Vikas Pota, said, 'Congratulations to Taaleem on the rare distinction of becoming a Best School to Work Certified Group. Your leadership, culture and vision have created an environment in which teachers can flourish. And where educators thrive, so does education.'
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