At Hartland International School, we firmly believe that the success of any educational institution lies in the empowerment and autonomy of its teachers. Recent discussions, such as those highlighted in TES by Dulwich College International, have shed light on the growing emphasis international schools place on teacher agency — a philosophy we wholeheartedly embrace and prioritise in our own community.
Teacher agency refers to giving educators the freedom, trust, and professional space to make decisions about their teaching practice, curriculum delivery, and classroom environment. At Hartland, we recognise that every teacher brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and passion to their role. By granting them autonomy, we not only show confidence in their expertise but also encourage them to innovate, adapt, and continuously refine their approach for the benefit of their students.
Our commitment to fostering teacher agency is reflected in several key areas. Firstly, we provide robust professional development opportunities tailored to individual needs and interests, ensuring that every member of staff feels supported in their career growth. Secondly, our leadership model promotes open dialogue and collaboration, where teachers’ voices are actively heard and valued in decision-making processes.
Additionally, being part of Dubai’s dynamic educational landscape means that we benefit from the diversity and global perspectives our teachers bring. We believe this diversity thrives best when educators are entrusted with the flexibility to apply their skills and insights in ways that resonate with their students.
Ultimately, empowering teachers leads to motivated staff, enriched learning experiences, and a strong, forward-thinking school community. At Hartland International School, teacher agency is not merely a concept; it is a cornerstone of our ethos, helping us to deliver an outstanding education in an ever-evolving world.
Click HERE to read more
