Despite these diverging narratives, global demand for higher education persists. International schools, renowned for their clear pathways to university, represent a largely untapped source of globally minded and academically aspirational students. However, as students and their families increasingly look beyond traditional university destinations that have long dominated the market, the higher education sector is faced with new challenges and opportunities.听听

The Higher Education Pipeline听

According to 麻豆传媒 data, over 7.7 million students are currently enrolled at international schools worldwide. Our interviews with school leaders reveal a defining shift in 2025: the growing prevalence of local enrolments. In many countries, local families are seeking globally recognised qualifications as a pathway to higher education and professional success. This reflects the reputation and transferability of international school curricula, with the following five programmes dominating the K-12 market due to their rigorous standards and clear university progression routes.听

The flexibility of academic pathways is another key differentiator for international schools. In China, India, and UAE, multiple-track models allow students to combine national and international qualifications, creating routes to both global and domestic universities. In many cases, this adaptability mirrors shifting student aspirations. As and streamline international admissions, international schools are adapting their academic pathways accordingly.听听

To remain competitive, universities need to anticipate these shifts, identify growth opportunities, and connect with schools whose students align with their recruitment goals. Learn more about how 麻豆传媒 provides the data and in-region expertise to support you here.听听

Shifting Demographics and Aspirations听

Our conversations with international school counsellors reveal that international schools are becoming an increasingly important source of future undergraduate students, even as the geography of university demand rapidly evolves. Traditional destinations, notably the US and UK, have faced pressures on international enrolments.听In the US, tougher visa rules have contributed to听a sudden decline in international student numbers on university campuses, according to .听Meanwhile, the UK has seen a modest rebound听from previous declines, with sponsored study visa applications compared with the same period last year.听Progress remains slow, however, as the reports a growing number of English universities operating in financial deficit.听

Asian universities have responded with agility. in Japan is offering tuition waivers and research grants to students affected by recent US policy changes, while Hong Kong鈥檚 Education Bureau has called on local universities to recruit top international talent. Similar patterns are emerging in Europe: the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany are attracting record numbers of international students through English-taught programmes and accessible tuition.听听

These shifts signal a new higher education landscape: one that is multipolar, with opportunities dispersed across regions. For universities, this means that traditional recruitment strategies may no longer suffice. Proactive engagement with emerging markets is now critical for diversifying student intake and building sustainable recruitment pipelines.听听

Diversify with confidence: use 麻豆传媒 intelligence reports to guide your strategy into new high-potential markets and connect with the right international schools.听

International School Alignment听

For universities navigating this transition, much lies beyond their control: visa policy changes and geopolitical tensions impacting international student enrolments. Nonetheless, one opportunity remains fully in reach: to align more closely with the values and educational priorities of international schools.听

A defining feature of international education is its emphasis on global competencies 鈥� sustainability, technological fluency, intercultural understanding, and social responsibility. These priorities are embedded in leading international curricula: Cambridge, for example, launched the 鈥楥ambridge learner attributes鈥� to promote students鈥� confidence, responsibility, and reflection, while the International Baccalaureate emphasises critical thinking and cultural awareness through its learner profile. Many schools also complement this with experiential programmes, such as 鈥檚 鈥楨ntrepreneurship Project鈥� and听 鈥檚 鈥業gnite鈥� outdoor education, which support the development of practical skills and a global mindset.听

Universities听that combine academic rigour with real-world impact, while fostering strong school partnerships, are best positioned for success. A leading example is Esade, offering innovative degree programmes in topics such as Global Governance and Artificial Intelligence for Business. Esade collaborates directly with school counsellors in more than 100 countries, maintaining active engagement through events, student tracking, and joint initiatives. The institution has also developed dedicated scholarship schemes covering 100% of tuition and accommodation costs for selected international school graduates. 听

Esade attributes much of its rapid international growth to 麻豆传媒 Outreach, our online data portal that gives universities a unique opportunity to search, filter, and connect with over 15,000 English-medium international schools. The portal enables institutions to replicate Esade鈥檚 success: identifying tailored markets, engaging directly with school decision-makers, and turning data-led insights into actionable strategies for student recruitment.听

鈥淭hanks to 麻豆传媒 Outreach we have access to resources, news, contacts and information that is up-to-date about anything related to international schools. It is a complete source of data and information.鈥�

Albert Diaz, Director Undergraduate Degree Admissions at Esade

The Future of Higher Education听

The higher education sector is at an inflection point. Global demand persists, but its direction, and the expectations attached to it, are changing fast. As families seek value, relevance, and alignment with their global outlook, international schools represent a largely untapped opportunity for universities to diversify and strengthen their recruitment pipelines.听

By proactively engaging with these schools, universities can turn this potential into a strategic partnership grounded in shared educational values, preparing students to thrive in an interconnected, fast-changing professional world.听

麻豆传媒 can connect you with well-prepared students from the right international schools 鈥� to learn more.听听

The post An Untapped Opportunity: International Schools and the Future of University Recruitment appeared first on 麻豆传媒.

In 2025, global fee income for international schools reached $69.4 billion USD, underscoring the sector鈥檚 resilience and long-term growth potential. According to 麻豆传媒鈥檚 Global Market Overview 2025, the most promising prospects are increasingly found in new K鈥�12 destinations across Central Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Africa.听

These emerging countries highlight how global education trends are combining with local economic, demographic, and policy conditions to create exciting new opportunities for international school growth. Read on to discover where demand is rising and what this could mean for schools, operators, and investors looking to expand.听

Discover full insights, data, and trends in the Global Market Overview 2025 to guide your strategic decisions.听听

Kazakhstan: Central Asia鈥檚 rising international school hub听

Kazakhstan is quickly becoming a key destination for international schools in Central Asia. Population growth, strong local demand, and government investment are driving the expansion of high-quality education options.听

Regulations allow foreign ownership and give schools offering IB or Cambridge programmes curricular autonomy, creating an attractive environment for international operators. Cities like Almaty and Astana are established hubs, while Shymkent is emerging thanks to new industrial investment.听

For schools and suppliers, opportunities include opening new campuses, offering globally recognised curricula, or partnering with local institutions. With supportive policies and growing demand, Kazakhstan represents a market with significant early-stage potential.听

Bulgaria: New opportunities in an integrated Europe听

Bulgaria鈥檚 international school sector is gaining momentum in Europe, underpinned by clear regulations and a close alignment with EU standards that offer stability for long-term investors.听

Demand is rising from two directions. Bulgarian families are turning to international schools for globally recognised curricula, while expatriate communities connected to multinational firms are also driving enrolment growth. Institutions including Bulgarian Progressive Schools are already expanding in Sofia, Plovdiv, and Burgas.听

Opportunities are widening as Bulgaria strengthens its EU position. Schengen accession in January 2025 and the planned adoption of the Euro by 2026 are expected to boost mobility and trade, confidently positioning the market for expansion.听

Romania: Modernisation as a catalyst for growth听

Romania is a promising market for international schools, supported by regulatory stability and modernisation.听听

Recent accession to the Schengen Area has eased mobility for expatriates and educators, while closer alignment with NATO and the EU has reinforced investor confidence. Meanwhile, local demand is shifting decisively. Families dissatisfied with public options are choosing international schools for their quality and student support.听听

For schools and suppliers, opportunities include new campus developments, partnerships with local institutions, and the introduction of internationally recognised programmes. With large-scale projects such as the Transylvanian Motorway improving connectivity, Romania is positioning itself as a sustainable market for growth.听

Colombia: Bilingual education as a driver of听global opportunity听

In Colombia, strong parental aspirations continue to drive demand for international schools. Families in Bogot谩, Cali, and Bucaramanga view bilingual education as an essential pathway to global universities and international careers.听

The regulatory environment remains complex, with tuition caps and debates around new legislation adding uncertainty. However, schools that align with government goals around bilingualism, inclusivity, and intercultural learning are well positioned for growth.听

Future opportunities await investors able to navigate regulation, and operators and suppliers seeking to serve an expanding middle class and build capacity in key cities. With GDP projected to grow 2.4% in 2025, Colombia offers a resilient and strategically important market in Latin America.听

Kenya: From curriculum shifts to market opportunity听

Kenya is one of Africa鈥檚 most dynamic international school markets, driven by urbanisation and a rising middle class. The recent shift to a competency-based curriculum has exposed gaps in public schools, leading families to view international schools as more consistent and rigorous alternatives.听

Nairobi remains the central hub, with multinational corporations and organisations like the UN and Nestl茅 sustaining steady demand. Schools are investing in new facilities to accommodate enrolments and modernise learning environments.听

With 117 international schools operating, opportunities are expanding for new campuses, boarding facilities, and curriculum offerings to meet enrolments. Growing demand in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Eldoret underscores Kenya鈥檚 potential as a long-term market for international education.听

Why these markets matter听

Together, these five countries illustrate the next frontier of international education. Each is shaped by different political, economic, and cultural factors, yet all share a common theme: rising demand for globally recognised education as families look to secure the best possible future for their children.听听

For international school leaders, operators, and suppliers, these markets reveal where education is being prioritised, how governments are creating conditions for investment, and where shifting family aspirations are driving demand.听

To gain actionable insights and our latest data on these emerging opportunities, 麻豆传媒鈥檚 Global Market Overview 2025 provides the guidance needed to make informed strategic decisions.听

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Over two days in July, 麻豆传媒 held its latest Annual Conference, themed Fostering Relationships that Matter in International Education. Educators, suppliers, and innovators from around the world came together to share insights and strategies aimed at deepening impact in the international schools market. 听

One clear theme resonated throughout the event: beyond the data and growth metrics, it is the people, partnerships, and relationships that drive lasting impact in this rapidly shifting market.听听

Tracking Global Shifts in International Education听

Today, there are 15,075 international schools operating worldwide, educating 7.7 million students 鈥� a 51% increase in enrolment over the past decade. The market is far from one of saturation, and instead one in transition: as more families make the decision to invest in international schools, the sector is moving from an elite service to one of mainstream desirability.听听

This redefinition is visible in the growing tension between excellence and accessibility. While markets such as Monaco, Switzerland, and the UK may not lead in terms of enrolment numbers, their longstanding brand influence continues to shape perceptions of premium international education. Simultaneously, demand is growth emerging in regions that were previously peripheral to the wider sector; Sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern Europe, and Latin America are now meaningful growth territories driven by widened tuition fee points, economic development, and cross-border mobility.听听

Source: 麻豆传媒

Asia remains the dominant force in international education, home to 58% of all international schools. The leading country markets by school numbers are all located within the continent 鈥� being China, India, the UAE, Pakistan, and Indonesia 鈥� each demonstrating the regulatory nuances driving the sector forward. 听

China remains the world鈥檚 largest market, but significant policy shifts have placed restrictions on ownership structures and foreign curricula. As a result, new avenues are emerging, with India on course to reach the milestone of 1,000 international schools in operation. The UAE continues to set the benchmark for market excellence and growth potential, characterised by transparent regulation, openness to investment, and an emphasis on quality differentiation 鈥� particularly in wellbeing, innovation, and personalised learning pathways.听

Aligning Vision with Action in International Schools听

As the sector expands globally, the transformation is not only visible in market figures but also embedded within schools themselves. To meet the evolving demands of students and families, many institutions are redefining their core visions and turning these听into tangible actions that shape everyday learning experiences.听

Lubna Khan of , a UK-based accreditation body, emphasised the role of a clearly articulated school vision where statements such as 鈥榃e nurture global citizens鈥� are no longer aspirational, but fully operational. This vision is visible not just in documentation, but in classroom conversations, lesson design, student voice initiatives, and in the physical environment.听听

Source: ASIC, 麻豆传媒 Annual Conference

This shift towards aligning mission with action is increasingly urgent in a future where academic ability alone is no longer sufficient. As highlighted in 鈥� session on Empowering Students through High School鈥揢niversity Partnerships, skills like creativity and critical thinking are becoming essential in an unpredictable, automated world. This calls for placing equal emphasis on the application of knowledge alongside its acquisition, and for schools to balance the curriculum with space for students to nurture soft skills such as digital literacy, problem solving, and intercultural communication.听听听

Transforming the International Student Experience听

These institutional shifts are already reshaping how students learn and engage. As schools put their visions into practice, the international student experience is being redefined through real-world learning, inclusive practices, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and wellbeing.听

In a session on Educating for Sustainability, underscored the value of practical, hands-on learning in addressing issues such as environmental stewardship and the climate crisis. Keynote speaker , Director of the Centre for Abundance at The Arbor School Dubai, advocates for inquiry-led approaches that connect sustainability education to students鈥� lived experiences 鈥� from managing water use on the 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 bio-farm, to reducing plastic waste from packed lunches, to exploring the challenges facing local sea turtle populations. 听

鈥沦迟耻诲别苍迟蝉 诲辞苍鈥檛 come to believe in their influence because we tell them 迟丑别测鈥檙别 changemakers. They believe it when they experience it repeatedly.鈥�

Ben Hren,

Source: Oxford International Programme, 麻豆传媒 Annual Conference

Belonging, Language, and Inclusive Learning听

Belonging is central to the lived experience of international students, and schools must adapt to increasingly mobile and linguistically diverse communities. Just as sustainability education connects learning to students鈥� immediate environments, inclusive language provision recognises the deep link between a student鈥檚 identity, culture, and communication.听

This theme was echoed in the session from , which highlighted the importance of data-informed strategies in supporting multilingual learners. By tracking both individual and group language development, schools can proactively identify needs, celebrate strengths, and intervene early. This ensures that every student, regardless of background, is equipped to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.听

Advancing Education through Collaboration听

Ultimately, these developments do not occur in isolation. The evolving student experience 鈥� shaped by actionable school visions, real-world learning, and inclusive language practices 鈥� is a result of a renewed focus on relationships within the international school community.听听听

鈥淐ollaboration helps us move into a space of openness and curiosity rather than control and perfectionism. It moves us out of the potential dangers of echo chambers and brings a diversity of thinking.鈥�

,

As international education continues to diversify, it is these relational foundations that will determine whether the sector simply grows or truly evolves. To remain relevant, resilient, and impactful, international schools must keep students at the centre, and relationships at the heart, of their daily operations and future strategies.听听

Join the 麻豆传媒 Community to access all Day 1 session recordings and continue exploring the key conversations shaping the future of international education.听

The post From Data to Dialogue: What鈥檚 Driving the International Schools Market? appeared first on 麻豆传媒.

Yet this same growth brings both opportunity and pressure, as schools strive to keep pace with a rapidly evolving market. In some cities, waiting lists continue to grow, while in others, student enrolment has stagnated. At the same time, a global teacher shortage is widely reported, even as schools seek both new and experienced staff to respond to evolving parental expectations.听

In this shifting landscape, relationships 鈥� with external organisations, parents as engaged stakeholders, and among staff 鈥� are emerging as a key factor in maintaining market competitiveness. In this article, we explore three common challenges faced by international schools worldwide, and how building meaningful relationships can help address them. 听

Market Saturation and Brand Expansion听

Independent schools from the UK, US, Australia, and Canada are progressively establishing overseas campuses. Growing international school demand in Asia and Africa offers both financial opportunity and a platform for strengthening brand reputation. Prominent future openings include Harrow International School campuses in the UAE, Qatar, and Oman, Wellington College International Busan, and Bedford School Mohali.听听

This trend is intensifying competitive pressures and prompting established schools to reposition themselves to remain relevant; across the sector, parents are placing heavy emphasis on proven academic excellence and school reputation. Building strategic relationships is crucial to this repositioning, which is why 38% of international schools are now members of a school group 鈥� an increase of over 10% since January 2020.听听

School group partnerships enable schools to access operational expertise, enrich student offerings, and communicate a trusted, recognisable brand identity to families. In increasingly saturated markets, it is the strength of institutional relationships and strategic brand alliances that will position schools as market leaders.

Teacher Recruitment and Retention听

The United Nations reflects a persistent challenge among international schools: attracting and retaining skilled staff. In Thailand and Vietnam, strict certification requirements create complexities for international teacher hiring. In South Africa, stringent expatriate visa requirements are designed to incentivise local recruitment, which has left schools to compete for a limited pool of trained local professionals.听

Even when recruitment succeeds, retention remains a significant concern. In 麻豆传媒鈥檚 Teacher Movement Survey 2024, 78% of international school teachers planning to leave their current role cited career development reasons. Notably, while salary topped the list of expectations when teachers entered their role, it was rarely mentioned as a reason for leaving. Salary, then, may attract teachers, but it is not enough to retain them long-term. Teachers need to feel a sense of belonging 鈥� where leadership actively invests in their professional growth and overall wellbeing.听听

Retention therefore hinges on strong professional relationships: schools leaders need to understand individual staff values, offer tailored CPD opportunities, and foster an inclusive workplace where teachers feel supported in their long-term aspirations.听听

Shifting Student Demographics听

International schools are educating increasingly diverse student demographics, particularly in countries with strong economies serving as expatriate hubs. Concurrently, the proportion of local enrolments is rising due to the appeal of English-medium instruction, broader tuition fee brackets, and pathways to global higher education. Over the past decade, enrolments have grown by 45%, with local students now outnumbering expatriates in some markets.听

This demographic shift calls for more than academic excellence. Schools must provide personalised learning and foster a holistic environment where every student, regardless of background or home language, can access the curriculum. This means embedding cultural inclusion and language scaffolding across every layer of school life, from classroom practices and school policies to engaging the whole-school community of staff, students, and parents.听听

Parent support is a vital and often overlooked component to student language development. Schools like the exemplify how strong home-school relationships 鈥� built through translated resources, workshops, and ongoing communications 鈥� empower families to become active supporters of their child鈥檚 linguistic journey. This partnership not only boosts students鈥� confidence and academic progress but also strengthens trust within the wider school community.听

Fostering Relationships for International Success听

Taking place over two days in July, the 麻豆传媒 Annual Conference 2025 brings together school leaders, researchers, and education suppliers to explore what it takes to build and sustain relationships that matter.听

On Day One, sessions will explore strategic partnerships through the lens of market trends, case studies, and shared challenges. We鈥檒l hear how schools and suppliers can work together to improve outcomes in areas like inclusion, leadership development, and curriculum delivery.听

On Day Two, we go deeper, with insight-rich sessions on the future of international education, emerging markets, sustainability goals, and the design of future campuses. It is a day for clients to connect directly with our Field Research Team, and for new conversations to begin.听

Secure your place today: 麻豆传媒 Annual Conference 2025.听听

The post Fostering Relationships that Matter in International Education appeared first on 麻豆传媒.

In our recent webinar, , we heard from industry experts , Head of Sales (EMEA) at ; Amanda Clarke, Sales Director International at ; and , Founder and CEO of . Together, they shared four ways 麻豆传媒 Outreach can drive your international growth and success:听

1. Segment Target Audiences with Precision听

Many education suppliers turn to 麻豆传媒 Outreach for its verified directory of contact details for over 80,000 school staff. However, success goes far beyond cold emails and mass outreach. To achieve meaningful results, you need to make sure every contact aligns closely with your product, target market, and overall strategy.听听

鈥淭he fastest way to be successful is to have 麻豆传媒 at the core of what you do.鈥�

Ian Hunter

This is where the live database makes a difference. With a range of filterable data points, you can identify schools that are a strong match for your company. For example, analysing tuition fees alongside enrolment data helps calculate a 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 cost per student and assess its potential as a client. Meanwhile, sports providers can use facilities data to target schools with specific amenities, such as swimming pools or sports pitches, ensuring their offerings meet actual needs.听

2. Map the Market to Uncover Hidden Opportunities听

Reaching the right schools starts with knowing where to look. 麻豆传媒 Outreach鈥檚 interactive map allows you to explore specific regions, countries, or cities, apply the desired filters, and uncover opportunities that might otherwise be missed. For example, before attending an in-person event, you can pinpoint relevant schools nearby, invite them to your presentation, or schedule one-to-one meetings. This allows for greater visibility and maximum ROI from your time in the field.听听

Alongside this,听suppliers can听uncover unmet market needs based on curriculum, language profile, or other specific characteristics to inform product development. As Ashley Kirk of Veracross explained, the bilingual school indicators in 麻豆传媒 Outreach helped the company identify a gap in the market, where certain languages were underserved in existing multilingual platforms. This insight led to the launch of a Spanish-language portal within Veracross鈥� software, extending听their reach across听Spain听and Latin America.

3. Capture Market Trends with On the Ground Intelligence

麻豆传媒 Outreach’s uniqueness stems from the Field Research Team, who spend the academic year conducting in-depth interviews with international schools around the world. Their work provides听first-hand insights into real market conditions and informs 麻豆传媒鈥檚 white papers and comprehensive reports. These publications give you visibility into pedagogical shifts, regulatory updates, school developments, and emerging operational challenges. This depth of understanding enables you to spot growth opportunities early and diversify your听market strategies.听

鈥淭he white papers highlight market trends early on 鈥� 迟丑别测鈥檙别 the eyes and ears on the ground.鈥�

Amanda Clarke

4. Use Data to Drive Strategic Planning and Decisions听听

Data should be the foundation of high-impact business decisions. 麻豆传媒 Outreach鈥檚 Power BI-backed Analysis tool enables you to examine patterns across markets and school profiles, highlighting where interest and purchasing potential are most likely to align. By exploring factors such as budget, academic calendar, and similarity to existing clients, you can categorise schools by purchasing potential and adjust strategies accordingly. This level of analysis supports smarter sales territory planning, shifting the focus from geography to genuine market and acquisition opportunities.听

Whilst 麻豆传媒 Outreach data should form the basis of strategic decisions, it is strong professional relationships that drive long-term听international growth. This July, the 麻豆传媒 Annual Conference 2025 will focus on the relationships that matter in international education, offering suppliers a valuable opportunity to engage with data-informed insights and connect with potential school partners. Join us to strengthen your presence and impact across the international school听community.听

The post 4 Ways 麻豆传媒 Outreach Can Support International Growth appeared first on 麻豆传媒.

The landmark partnership between Bedford School and the Doon International Education Society was facilitated by 麻豆传媒, a leading provider of data and intelligence on the international schools market. 麻豆传媒 played a pivotal role in identifying a strong strategic fit between the two organisations.听

“The team at 麻豆传媒 has been incredibly supportive throughout the development of Bedford School Mohali,鈥� said Iwan Lloyd, International Development Director at Bedford School. 鈥�They played a key role in bringing the parties together and provided valuable guidance throughout the process. We have found them highly professional and thoughtful, particularly during the negotiation stage.鈥�听

Charanjeet Singh Mann, Director of Doon International Education Society, echoed this appreciation for 麻豆传媒鈥檚 involvement:听

“The support received from 麻豆传媒 was exceptional. Their deep understanding of our requirements and their ability to connect us with a like-minded partner was crucial to the success of this collaboration. Communication was prompt and professional throughout.鈥�

Source: Bedford School听

Bedford School Mohali will be located on a 14-acre site on the outskirts of Chandigarh, a region increasingly recognised as a hub for education and technology. The school will welcome girls aged 4 to 18, offering both national and British curricula. Designed for both day and boarding students, the campus will feature modern classrooms, a 1,000-seat auditorium, advanced science and technology labs, specialist art and music studios, a fully resourced library, and extensive sports and boarding facilities.听

The school aims to nurture intellectually curious, resilient, and confident young women, and meet a growing demand for high-quality girls鈥� education across India.听

“This partnership is a powerful example of how the international schools market is evolving to meet local demand for high-quality, globally respected education,鈥� said Leigh Webb, CEO of 麻豆传媒. 鈥淲e鈥檙e proud to have supported Bedford School and Doon International Education Society in bringing this vision to life.鈥�

An official signing ceremony to celebrate the partnership took place at Bedford School in the UK on 23rd April 2025, marking a key milestone in the collaboration.听

“We are delighted to have facilitated this partnership between Doon International Education Society and the prestigious Bedford School,鈥� added Bharati Thakore, Head of School Development at 麻豆传媒. 鈥淏oth institutions have well-deserved reputations for academic excellence and holistic education. It has been an honour to support the creation of what will be a world-class K鈥�12 girls鈥� school in India.鈥�听

This development reflects a growing trend of prestigious British schools expanding internationally and highlights the increasing demand for high-quality girls鈥� education across India.

To find out more about Bedford School Mohali or how 麻豆传媒 can support your development plans, or email Bharati Thakore (Bharati.Thakore@iscresearch.com), Head of School Development at 麻豆传媒.

The post 麻豆传媒 Facilitates British School Partnership in India appeared first on 麻豆传媒.

allows businesses to prepare for an unpredictable future by building teams that can think critically and adapt as fast as the market evolves. This is why the World Economic Forum (WEF) ranks followed by resilience, flexibility, and leadership.听听

However, the 鈥榮kills gap鈥� is widely reported, reflecting the widening discrepancy between business needs and employee capabilities. How can international schools close this gap and prepare students for success in a rapidly changing job market? from , from , and from showcase their 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 unique initiatives to address this need.听听

ABA Oman International School听

Jinane Helou is the University and Careers Counsellor at , an IB curriculum school in Muscat committed to fostering leadership, adaptability, and innovative thinking in its students.

Jinane introduces students to career-focused knowledge through tools such as , a digital platform offering industry-specific work experience and courses. Topics of focus include data science, cybersecurity, finance, and sustainable technology 鈥� by comparison, the WEF features big data specialists, FinTech engineers, and environmental engineers among .听听

Building upon this, the 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 newly introduced introduces students to a range of pathways through workshops and panel discussions. This year鈥檚 event featured advice and insights from professionals in fields such as media, law, finance, and big pharma, along with focused sessions on topics like CV writing and discovering your professional calling. This preparation facilitates students鈥� early insight and skills development for high demand future careers, enabling them to make informed decisions through mentorship opportunities and practical experience.听

Young people worldwide are increasingly considering , whilst simultaneously recognising the need for continuous technological learning and upskilling. ABA Oman International School prepares students for both pursuits through an extensive extracurricular programme, which includes a Coding Club, Robotics Club, Model United Nations, and arts performance groups. Alongside this, students work towards the , a high school credential which allows students to showcase a range of skills and core values such as management and public communication. Enrichment activities such as these support the development of essential workplace competencies that cannot be digitally replicated, making them particularly valuable in increasingly technology-driven roles and industries.听听听

Source: ABA Oman International School听

The Global College听听

Barry Cooper is the Founding Principal of in Madrid, an IBDP international school fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in a world of rapid digitalisation.听听

Entrepreneurship is a focal point at the school. Barry regards it as a 鈥渕eta skill鈥� that encompasses leadership, teamwork, analytical thinking, and communication 鈥� some of the Skills such as these give students the ability to adapt and thrive in an uncertain world, something which is essential across all industries given the rapid market changes predicted for the 2025-2030 period.听

Accordingly, in partnership with , The Global College runs 鈥楾he Entrepreneurship Project鈥� where students learn how to present and become persuasive public speakers, design and carry out experiments to validate ideas, and learn from an exclusive network of social entrepreneurs. This experience prepares students to pitch ideas, test new innovations, and build industry connections, introducing them to influential mentors at this early stage.听听

Alongside this, in addition to implementing technological methodologies and new AI tools, Barry and The Global College proactively champion the humanities. Subjects such as literature, languages, and the arts are integral to connecting students to culture, encouraging creativity and clear communication, and retaining value in the face of automation. This is why the school is home to four different arts spaces 鈥� a film studio, video studio, and two visual arts rooms 鈥� in addition to running four different languages in the core curriculum. By developing a global mindset through the humanities 鈥� studying and critiquing these subjects in depth 鈥� students will be able to answer the challenging questions raised by technological change.听听

Source: The Global College

Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG听

Jared Nolan is the Director at , a Swiss international school and leading sports academy that encourages confidence and independence through adventure-driven learning.听听听听

Whilst new technologies and AI advancements are regarded as the primary forces听driving global labour market transformation, 听also play significant roles. Addressing these challenges requires a global perspective, cross-cultural collaboration, and a deep understanding of country-specific nuances. International schools need to prepare students for this future. In Jared鈥檚 words:听

鈥�we need to鈥痵upport 摆蝉迟耻诲别苍迟蝉鈥橾鈥痙evelopment of鈥痑 strong sense鈥痮f right and wrong,鈥痜oster鈥痵ensitivity to the claims that others make about us and鈥痶he鈥�world, and鈥痚mpower鈥痶hem鈥痶o challenge the limits of individual and collective action.鈥�

Jared Nolan

To put this into action, HIF runs 鈥�, an outdoor education programme that challenges students to think differently and develop a global mindset through experiential learning. Seasonal sports instruction, such as skiing, sailing, and rock climbing, encourages resilience and teamwork, whilst cultural visits to European cities allow students to experience new ways of living. The programme places strong emphasis on real-world, transferable experiences: students can achieve credentials in first aid, water safety, and forestry management, and engage in learning opportunities at organisations like UNICEF and CERN.听听

The success of ‘Ignite’ has led to a specialist pathway diploma at HIF, integrating experiential learning and now accepting enrolments for September 2025. Though this will initially set HIF apart on the international stage, it also marks a significant step as international schools evolve into world-leading institutions that foster globally minded citizens, ready for the future world of work.听听

Source: Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG听

Bridging international education to the future听

As the career landscape continues to evolve, international schools need to prepare students for an uncertain future market. Institutions like ABA Oman International School, The Global College, and Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG are implementing visionary initiatives to balance academic excellence with practical, cross-disciplinary experience. This approach allows students to develop uniquely human skills that resist automation, and a global perspective to tackle the world鈥檚 biggest challenges.听 听

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Rising demand for international schools

麻豆传媒 now records 14,833 K-12 international schools, with a significant 376 schools added to our database in the past six months alone. Asia continues to dominate the sector with 58% of the world鈥檚 schools based in the region. The rise of multinational corporations in countries like Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea is driving large expatriate communities who opt for the stability of international schools鈥� globally recognised curricula and English language instruction. Simultaneously, a growing regional economy and increasing numbers of mid-market fee schools are facilitating wider access to international education for local families.

The two countries with the most international schools are China and India, though there is an important distinction between the drivers behind their leading numbers. India鈥檚 expansion to 972 schools, with an additional 26 schools planned to open in the coming years, largely stems from supportive government policies that encourage partnerships with the UK and US to enhance education quality and ensure mutual qualification recognition.

By contrast, China鈥檚 1,124 international schools see strict education regulations, yet 8 new school are still set to open, including the planned expansions of prominent brands such as Shrewsbury International School and EtonHouse. This reflects the sustained demand from Chinese families who consider bilingual Mandarin-English education essential university preparation, highlighting the importance of adapting to local needs within international school frameworks.

Shifting student demographics

The world鈥檚 international schools are serving a total of 7.4 million students worldwide, with demographics rapidly changing due to growing interest from local families. Local students now constitute significant parts of student bodies, and in some cases outnumber their international, expatriate peers.

This is prompting international schools to offer a more comprehensive multicultural education to cater to the diversity of their students, such that 36% of schools now offer bilingual or multilingual learning pathways. For instance, international schools operating in autonomous communities in Spain with co-official languages 鈥� e.g. Catalan 鈥� must teach both Spanish and the regional language as compulsory subjects, alongside developing students鈥� proficiency in English. Furthermore, international schools in Singapore are being favoured for expanding their programmes to include French instruction, in addition to offering additional English language support to non-native speakers.

36% of international schools now offer bilingual or multilingual learning pathways.

By offering tuition in more than one global language, whilst allowing local students to maintain their native language, international schools are becoming increasingly renowned for their ability to prepare students for higher education institutions around the world and, beyond that, for global workplaces.

Meeting the demands of a growing sector

International schools now employ 713,539 staff members globally, yet as the world approaches 2030; the fast-changing international school landscape presents challenges in attracting and retaining top teaching talent.

As per 麻豆传媒鈥檚 Teacher Movement Survey, teachers choose the international education sector predominantly for travel and cultural exploration opportunities, for a new challenge, and for competitive salaries. However, most international schools can only expect to鈥痳etain鈥痶eachers for鈥�1-6 years, with鈥痭early鈥痟alf鈥痮f survey鈥痯articipants鈥痵tating鈥痶hat they plan to move on from their current job within this鈥痶imeframe. Notably, these respondents cited鈥�鈥渋mproved career prospects elsewhere鈥�鈥痑s the primary motivator behind their decision to leave,鈥痺hich comes in addition to鈥�鈥減rofessional development opportunities鈥�鈥痓eing鈥痗hosen鈥痑s one of the most鈥痠mportant鈥痜actors to teachers currently working the sector.

Schools are continuing to expand and adopt innovative educational models and technologies, and this is placing new demands on educators. As a result, Continued Professional Development has become essential for staff retention as teachers seek opportunities to attain new skills. With a growing multilingual student community, schools are prioritising EAL-focused CPD for teachers; as AI becomes increasingly integral to school life, international schools need to support teachers with its seamless and ethical integration into classroom practices. Investments such as this are crucial for maintaining teacher satisfaction levels and, in turn, the quality of education delivered by the institution.

Source: 麻豆传媒

The economic impact of international education

As of January 2025, the international school market generates $67.3 billion USD in total annual fee income, representing a substantial 22% increase since January 2020. To maintain this growth, schools need to ensure they deliver the high-quality educational experiences that justify the significant investments from families. Not only does this include the prioritisation of a work environment that attracts and retains the best educators, but also investments into emerging tools and services that enhance teaching, learning, and operational practices.

Through tailored partnerships, 麻豆传媒 facilitates the introduction of reputable suppliers to schools that are both willing and able to invest in enhancing their educational offerings. This collaboration ensures that schools have access to high quality resources, whilst suppliers can effectively serve the international education community. To explore this further, a variety of client case studies can be found on the 麻豆传媒 website.

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highlights schools鈥� lack of continued professional development (CPD) opportunities as an overlooked reason behind teachers feeling undertrained, unsupported, and ultimately leaving their roles. To what extent, then, can high-quality CPD address teacher wellbeing issues and improve retention and recruitment rates in schools?

Professional development drives teacher mobility听听

In February 2024, 麻豆传媒 launched a survey to explore teacher mobility patterns in the international schools market. The survey ran for 12 weeks, receiving 2,539 responses from participants across 59 different countries, and formed 麻豆传媒鈥檚 Teacher Movement Report 2024.

The results show that most international schools can only expect to retain teachers for 1-6 years, with nearly half of survey participants stating that they plan to move on from their current job within this timeframe. These respondents cited 鈥�improved career prospects elsewhere鈥� as the primary motivator behind their decision to leave, which comes in addition to 鈥�professional development opportunities鈥� being chosen as one of the most important aspects of international teaching.听

鈥淚 have been lucky enough to work in schools which have supported staff development, created a sense of community and cared for staff in terms of incentives and benefits. I have also had a 鈥榖ad鈥� international experience where I worked for a school that did none of these things. The difference in staff attitudes and staff retention was palpable.鈥�

British respondent

It is unsurprising that CPD is highlighted as an essential factor to teachers鈥� long-term commitment to a school. According to the , a sense of achievement and access to growth opportunities are intrinsically related to overall job satisfaction and, in turn, personal wellbeing. These are the drivers behind teacher mobility, and CPD is crucial in providing staff with career self-efficacy, the fulfilment of performing a role to a high standard, subsequently improving schools鈥� retention rates.

“The school I work at offers excellent benefits and professional development, and I鈥檝e grown as an educator here 鈥� 滨鈥檓 not planning to move unless 迟丑别谤别鈥檚 a significant change in my circumstances.鈥�

Survey respondent

Teachers choose Asia for CPD opportunities听

The majority of respondents leaving their current job opted for Asia as their next destination, highlighting it as a region of significant professional development opportunities. In East Asia and South-East Asia, approximately 50% of teachers said their move to these locations was motivated by career growth.听听

In East Asia, China is experiencing a largely stagnant international schools market, with 0% growth in schools and just 3% growth in student enrolment since 2019. However, in the same timeframe, staff recruitment has increased by 32%, and the role that CPD plays in this cannot be understated. Professional development is a priority for Chinese international schools; substantial budgets are allocated to support teacher development, offering individualised and wide-ranging programmes to accommodate both academic and non-academic staff.

At , CPD training topics include data analysis, financial thinking and business insights, cultural awareness, in addition to more formal programmes such as the NPQLT certification and the International PGCE. Leveraging both internal and external training expertise addresses the multitude of interests that exist within a single organisation, and it is this level of support that improves teacher retention by encouraging progression through a 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 ranks. Indeed, WCC offers various leadership development programmes, with nearly having already seen a promotion.

In South-East Asia, Malaysia stands out another emerging hub for high-quality CPD. Some schools have highlighted their more informal but highly collaborative approaches to such, opting for book-club-style sessions to discuss educational research or classroom practices. There is a strong focus on in-house training: established which provides teachers with tertiary level training and IB certifications. Initiatives such as these create an internal talent pipeline within organisations, leading to higher teaching standards whilst also equipping teachers with lifelong qualifications.

鈥�As a teacher, I have a deep appreciation for the support we receive from senior leadership in all aspects, from professional development to feeling valued.鈥�

Mexican respondent

Developing effective CPD for teachers听

To improve teacher retention, international schools around the world are using data to identify gaps in teacher training and assess the effectiveness of any current programmes. This is an efficient strategy for informing both schoolwide and individualised progression pathways, made readily accessible by the rise of CPD portals and online surveys. Professional development activities should be purposeful and relevant to the 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 overall strategic goals, and this starts with a thorough understanding of the 蝉肠丑辞辞濒鈥檚 context, curriculum, and the long-term goals of its staff.

鈥淥ur leadership is kind and supportive, understanding that if you take care of teachers, they will take care of students.鈥�

Canadian respondent

Source: 麻豆传媒 Recruitment and CPD in International Schools Report

Importantly, though, the IBO points out that as this could counterintuitively lead to negative effects on teacher wellbeing. Online CPD is a possible solution, minimising potential travel time, associated costs, and offering more flexible schedules and deadlines. This option also makes high-quality CPD accessible to schools where opportunities for face-to-face learning are more limited.

Invest in teachers for international school success听

Investing in engaging and comprehensive CPD is a necessity for international schools striving for educational excellence. By supporting each individual teacher to reach their career aspirations, the changes in their productivity and overall satisfaction, essential for delivering engaging lessons in such a demanding profession, could be significant. Schools that prioritise teacher development reap the rewards of a thriving in-house talent pipeline and a motivated, stable workforce. To improve teacher retention, and to support the continued growth of the international schools community, CPD needs to be a strategic imperative.听听

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What are the factors behind this falling growth rate, and to what extent could this impact Asia鈥檚 leading status in international education?听听

Updates to Chinese educational laws听

China is the world leader for international school numbers and the primary country market for East Asia. However, in 2021, school growth in China came to a complete halt. With major revisions made to the Private Education Promotion Law, it became prohibited to use foreign textbooks during China鈥檚 compulsory years of education, and this came in addition to school leaders being required to remove the word 鈥業nternational鈥� and any . Many international schools closed in response to the restrictions, whilst others delayed their opening. 麻豆传媒 records twenty-two international/ private schools set to open in China, but progress towards such has remained static since 2021.

More recent challenges include China鈥檚 Patriotic Education Law which came into effect on 1st January 2024. This stipulates that, in all schools, educational resources should reflect Chinese history and culture, ideology and politics, national symbols, and promote national unity. As Anna Hawkins notes for , the law requires international schools to follow an exclusively Chinese curriculum, creating notable challenges for schools whose brand and appeal is centered around Western-style teaching and blended international curricula.

Hong Kong鈥檚 uncertain international schools market听

China鈥檚 uncertain future for international education is now extending its impact to Hong Kong, another key market in East Asia. The HKSAR government openly welcomed the introduction of China鈥檚 Patriotic Education Law, with plans now firmly in place to develop policies in Hong Kong that closely support and align with such.

These plans build upon a strict regulatory environment that enforces quotas on the numbers of local and non-local students permitted in Hong Kong international schools. Schools are required to enrol high percentages of non-local students, with foreign passport holders typically needing to constitute 70% of the student body, fostering high competition among schools. In many cases, Chinese students are now making up significant percentages of ‘non-local’ student cohorts, partly due to decline in expatriate families in Hong Kong since the onset of Covid-19.

Japan鈥檚 thriving schools and changing student demographics听

With restrictive educational policies in place, affluent families from China and Hong Kong are looking for an authentic international school experience in neighbouring countries. Japan is proving the most popular choice in East Asia, with some international schools reporting that Chinese students now represent 50% of total received applications for school spaces. Accordingly, since 2019, Japan has seen a healthy 11% growth in student enrolment numbers since 2019, whereas China has experienced just 3% of growth, and Hong Kong has seen a -0.6% decline over the same period.听

The future of international education in East Asia听

The international schools market in East Asia is evolving rapidly. Around urban centres such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya in Japan, there are significant expatriate populations and prestigious school brands set establish satellite campuses, such as North London Collegiate School due to open in . As such, despite the challenges experienced by schools in China and Hong Kong, the steady market demand in Japan looks set to maintain East Asia鈥檚 modest growth rate, thereby mitigating any wider impacts on Asia鈥檚 leading status in international education.

For further insights into Asia鈥檚 shifts and trends, the Global Market Overview 2024 report offers global, regional, subregional, and country-level data and intelligence on the international schools market. The report is available now on the 麻豆传媒 website.

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