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A $14.5 Billion Deal That Could Shape the Future of International Schools

ByKelly Quinn

In March 2025, Nord Anglia Education was sold to a powerhouse consortium led by EQT, alongside major institutional investors including Neuberger Berman Private Markets, CPP Investments, CF Alba, and Dubai Holding.

Valued at a whopping USD 14.5 billion, the deal marks a new chapter for the group’s 80+ schools across 33 countries, which educate over 90,000 students worldwide.

For international teaching families, especially those already working at or considering a move to a Nord Anglia school, it begs the question: what does this mean for us?

Someone holding a toy airplan on a colourful world map drawn on chalkboard

The Upside: Continued Investment, Growth, and Opportunity

The new ownership group has been vocal in its commitment to growth, stability, and innovation, which are all good signs for recruitment. With capital coming from sovereign wealth funds and insurers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America, Nord Anglia now has even deeper pockets and a more diversified financial base.

If the promises hold, we could see:

  • Expansion of school campuses and new openings in key destinations.
  • Enhanced technology and digital learning tools, building on EQT’s track record of digital investment.
  • Continued collaborations with prestigious institutions like MIT, Juilliard, UNICEF, and Harvard’s Project Zero – something that can elevate both student outcomes and teacher professional development.
  • More international secondment opportunities across the group’s global network.

This could make Nord Anglia an even more attractive employer for teaching families looking for long-term career paths abroad.

“Since day one, EQT and CPP Investments have shared our educational philosophy and with the addition of Neuberger Berman, we are further strengthening this successful partnership. Focused on improving students’ outcomes, we will accelerate our research of new teaching and learning practices, curricula innovation, and the growth and development of our global teaching community.”

Andrew Fitzmaurice, CEO of Nord Anglia Education

The Unknowns: Will Cost-Cutting Creep In?

Despite all the positive language, international teachers know that private equity ownership can be a double-edged sword. While EQT has supported Nord Anglia since 2008 and helped lead 21 acquisitions since 2017, large-scale financial deals can lead to restructuring, efficiency drives, or changes in staffing models.

For example:

  • Will class sizes increase to boost revenue?
  • Could non-teaching support roles be reduced?
  • Might benefits or relocation packages be tightened?

While there’s no indication yet of these changes, it’s something for teaching families to watch out for. Especially if you’re on the move or signing new contracts. It’s also a good time to ask tough questions during recruitment. If you’re seeing changes in your current international school, raise it with SLT.

What to Ask If You’re Considering a Nord Anglia Role

If you’re in the recruitment process with Nord Anglia or one of its schools, here are a few questions worth asking:

  • Are there any planned structural changes in light of the sale?
  • How will this investment improve support for teachers and families?
  • Will relocation packages or housing allowances remain consistent?
  • What is the outlook for professional development and career progression within the group?

Impact on International Schools

Nord Anglia is one of the “big names” in international education. Its sale at such a high valuation signals continued investor confidence in the sector. It could also trigger similar acquisitions or expansions by other school groups.

For teaching families, that could mean:

  • More job opportunities in new markets.
  • More standardised practices across schools.
  • A rise in competition for premium roles as networks grow.

Looking Ahead: What Teaching Families Should Do

For now, it’s safe to assume that business continues as usual at Nord Anglia schools. If you’re already working at one, talk with your leadership team about what, if anything, might change locally. If you’re applying, do your research and be sure to ask questions to see if there are any planned changes.

For those of you starting to explore life abroad as a teacher, this is a perfect example of how global finance and education are becoming increasingly intertwined. And how being well-informed can help you make the best decision for you and your family.

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