Ethical by Design - Strategic By Nature

Supporting schools in building cultures that last


The Ethical Employer Scheme

At NexGen Talent, we believe that ethical employment is the foundation of thriving school communities.

Our evaluation framework is built on six core principles that define what it means to be an ethical employer in international education.

These principles guide our independent assessments and help schools strengthen their reputation, retain talent, and foster environments where both people and learning can flourish.

Our Core Evaluation Principles

1. Ethical Recruitment

Transparent, inclusive, and values-aligned hiring processes that build trust from the very first interaction.

2. Leadership & Accountability

Leaders who model integrity and align their decisions with the school’s mission, values, and duty of care.

3. Transition & Offboarding

Respectful, structured, and fair processes that honour the employee lifecycle and support organisational continuity.

4. Professional Conduct & Integrity

Clear expectations, consistent communication, and ethical decision-making at every level of the organisation.

5. Safe & Supportive Workplaces

Environments that protect employee wellbeing, promote psychological safety, and uphold the highest standards of care.

6. Culture & Climate

A positive, people-first culture where staff feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work—because great employment drives great education.

Evaluation Process

Our evaluation process is designed to guide schools through a rigorous yet supportive journey toward ethical employment recognition. The steps below outline the standard pathway from application to endorsement:

1. Enrolment & Onboarding

Schools begin by submitting their application and fee. A brief onboarding meeting is held with an Evaluation Lead Officer, and access to the evaluation platform is provided.

2. Candidate Status Confirmed

Once onboarded, schools receive official Candidate status, signaling their commitment to the process and enabling access to tools and planning resources.

3. Initial PD Program

Leadership teams complete 12 targeted professional development modules designed to build foundational understanding and prepare for evidence submission. Modules include practical activities and reflection tasks.

4. Evidence Compilation & Upload

Schools collect and submit documentation aligned to the evaluation criteria. Platform tools, examples, and guidance support this stage.

5. Initial Submission Review

A preliminary check ensures the submission is complete. Schools may be asked to clarify or add missing items before full review begins.

6. Full Evaluation & Feedback

Our evaluation team conducts a detailed review of the submission. Schools receive a feedback report outlining either endorsement or clear next steps for improvement.

Additional Insights

Culture Survey
A staff culture survey may be used to gather insights and strengthen the final review. This helps validate internal alignment and staff perception.

Ongoing Endorsement
Endorsement is valid for three years. Schools must complete a re-evaluation to maintain their recognised status.