Best School to Work Middle East Accolade: Recent Win for ISP
The International Schools Partnership (ISP) has recently earned the Best School to Work Certified Group: Middle East status. This status recognises schools in the UAE and Qatar for creating a positive working environment focused on teacher wellbeing, culture, and support.
This certification, awarded by T4 Education’s Best School to Work program, reflects ISP’s commitment to fostering a workplace where teachers feel valued and supported.
If you’re exploring teaching opportunities overseas with your family, there’s a good chance the Middle East has come across your radar. It’s a tempting option for many teaching families with a reputation for high salaries, generous benefits, and large international school networks.
But it’s not without challenges, especially if you’re moving with kids.
Let’s take a look at what the award means – and what it could mean for you if you’re considering teaching in this part of the world.
What Is the “Best School to Work” Certification?
The certification comes from T4 Education, an independent education platform that surveys thousands of teachers worldwide. It’s based on anonymous staff feedback and looks at four core areas:
- Leadership (vision, communication, trust)
- Collaboration (working culture within the staff and wider community)
- School Environment (inclusivity, support, and relationships)
- Professional Wellness (workload, pay, wellbeing)
Only groups in which more than half the schools in the region meet the criteria can earn the “Certified Group” title. ISP’s schools in the UAE and Qatar made the cut in 2025, joining the shortlist of the Middle East’s most highly rated teaching employers.
What Does This Mean for Families?
ISP’s recognition points to something teaching families often struggle to find: a school group that prioritises people, not just students, but staff too. And when you’re moving a family overseas, your workplace culture can shape your whole experience.
Here’s what stands out:
1. A Focus on Wellbeing (Beyond Buzzwords)
ISP’s wellbeing initiatives include:
- Wellness Weeks across all schools
- Health checks and fitness programs
- Access to professional coaching
- Mental health training for staff
That’s not just nice-to-have—it’s essential when adjusting to life abroad with kids, especially in regions where culture shock or isolation can creep in.
2. Strong Professional Development
If you’re a teacher hoping to grow your career while also supporting your family, look for employers that offer real PD, not just lip service. ISP’s Leadership 401 training and coaching pathways could be a draw for international teachers who want their development to continue abroad.
3. Community Matters
Relocation is a family decision, and school culture spills into family life when you’re working at an international school. ISP’s focus on staff connection, social events, and appreciation awards suggests a work environment that doesn’t leave you alone. For teaching families, teaching couples or single parents, this type of support can make a huge difference in how easily you adapt.
Is the Middle East Right for Every Family?
Not every international teacher will thrive in the Middle East. Things to consider:
- Conservative laws and cultural expectations can feel restrictive to some families.
- Housing quality, healthcare access, and schooling for your own kids vary a lot between cities and contracts.
- Some countries have limited opportunities for spouses who aren’t employed by a school.
- The heat and dust (especially in Gulf countries) can be tough for younger children or kids with health conditions.
That said, the UAE and Qatar are among the more established and family-oriented places in the region. They offer large expat communities, reliable infrastructure, and plenty of English-speaking services.
Should You Apply to an ISP School?
If you’re considering the Middle East and want the reassurance of a well-regarded, people-first employer, ISP is worth a look.
Their Middle East schools include:
- 📍 Dubai: The Aquila School, Star International Schools, The English College
- 📍 Abu Dhabi: Aspen Heights, Reach British School
- 📍 Qatar: The Hamilton International School, Park House English School
As with any school, we recommend:
- Researching each campus individually
- Asking about school culture in interviews
- Talking to current or past staff, especially those with families
- Being clear about what’s offered in your contract package (housing, tuition discounts, relocation costs, etc.)
Final Thoughts on Best School to Work Accolade
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer regarding moving your family abroad to teach. But when large school groups like ISP earn recognition for valuing their staff, it’s a positive sign in a sector that can be very hit-or-miss when it comes to employee wellbeing.
If the Middle East is on your shortlist, ISP schools may offer a more supportive and family-aware starting point than most.
Let Us Know Your Experience
If you’ve worked at an ISP school we’d love to hear about your experience. Complete our school survey to help us continue to build our school profiles (so we can determine which types of schools are the best school to work at for families), or get in touch with us.
