Introduction to Education Development Trust

Education Development Trust (EDT) is an internationally respected education charity and consultancy headquartered in Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom. With a rich history spanning over five decades, EDT has established itself as a premier organization dedicated to improving education systems, outcomes, and life chances for children, young people, and adults across the globe. The organization operates at the intersection of research, policy, and practice, delivering bespoke solutions to governments, schools, and nonprofit organizations. With an annual turnover exceeding £100 million and a workforce of over 2,000 employees spread across more than 20 countries, Education Development Trust is recognized as a top-tier player in the education development sector. Its reputation is built on evidence-based approaches, innovative program design, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion. Clients include national ministries of education, international donors such as DFID (now FCDO), USAID, the World Bank, and foundations like the Gates Foundation. The trust’s work impacts millions of learners annually, from early childhood through to vocational training and teacher professional development. This profile provides a comprehensive insight into why Education Development Trust remains a leader and a trusted partner in the global education landscape.

Education Development Trust’s core expertise lies in transforming education systems by strengthening teaching, leadership, and institutional capacity. The organization’s flagship programs, such as the Global Learning Programme and Teaching Excellence Framework, have set benchmarks for quality and impact. In an era of rapid technological change and persistent educational inequality, EDT continues to innovate, leveraging digital tools, data analytics, and partnerships to scale its impact. Its research arm, the Education Development Trust Research and Evaluation Unit, publishes influential reports that shape policy debates. The trust’s commitment to sustainable development goal 4 (Quality Education) is unwavering, and its contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. For organizations seeking a reliable, evidence-driven partner to improve education outcomes, Education Development Trust is the gold standard.

Company History and Business Evolution

The origins of Education Development Trust trace back to 1969 when it was founded as the Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) by a group of educators and philanthropists with a vision to improve English language teaching and teacher training in developing countries. Initially, the organization focused on recruiting and placing British teachers in overseas posts, particularly in Commonwealth nations. This early work quickly expanded into broader educational consultancy, as demand grew for expertise in curriculum design, school improvement, and leadership development. In the 1980s, CfBT broadened its geographic footprint, securing contracts in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. A pivotal moment came in the 1990s when the organization rebranded as CfBT Education Trust to reflect its growing scope beyond teacher supply. Major milestones include the launch of the Global Learning Programme in 2005, which provided professional development for thousands of teachers worldwide, and the acquisition of International Education Consultants in 2011, strengthening its consultancy arm. In 2015, the trust underwent a strategic rebrand to Education Development Trust, signaling a renewed focus on development outcomes and a commitment to evidence-based practice. This change was accompanied by a new mission: to transform lives through education, measured by tangible improvements in learning, equity, and employability. The trust’s evolution from a teacher supply agency to a global development powerhouse is a testament to its adaptability. Recent expansions include the establishment of a regional hub in Dubai in 2019 and the launch of the Virtual Learning Academy in 2020, which delivered remote professional development during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Education Development Trust reported its highest-ever impact metrics, with programs reaching over 5 million learners in 25 countries. The organization’s journey reflects a continuous commitment to innovation, quality, and partnership, positioning it as a key player in the international education development sector.

Education Development Trust at a Glance

• Headquarters: Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom
• Founded: 1969 (as Centre for British Teachers)
• CEO: Dr. Stephen Doggett (as of 2025)
• Annual Revenue: Approximately £120 million
• Employees: Over 2,000 globally
• Countries of Operation: 20+ including UK, UAE, Kenya, Rwanda, Bangladesh, and Malaysia
• Industry: Education & Training, International Development
• Key Services: Consultancy, Teacher Training, Curriculum Design, Research, Policy Advisory
• Flagship Programs: Global Learning Programme, Teaching Excellence Framework, Leadership Pathways
• Clients: Governments (e.g., UK DfE, UAE Ministry of Education), Multilateral Agencies (World Bank, UNICEF), NGOs
• Research Output: Over 50 peer-reviewed publications annually
• Awards: Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (2018), International Impact Award (2022)
• Social Impact: 5 million+ learners reached annually
• Digital Innovation: Virtual Learning Academy, EdTech platforms
• Partnerships: University of Oxford, Cambridge Education, UNESCO
• Core Values: Integrity, Collaboration, Innovation, Equity
• Operating Model: Charity with a sister trading company (Education Development Trust International)
• Accreditations: ISO 9001, Investors in People Gold
• Board of Trustees: 12 members including education leaders and business executives
• Volunteer Network: 500+ active volunteers in teacher mentorship programs

Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Mission: To transform lives by improving education outcomes for children, young people, and adults globally, through evidence-based programs, capacity building, and systemic change.
Vision: A world where every learner, regardless of background, has access to quality education that equips them with the skills and knowledge to thrive.
Core Values:Integrity: Operating transparently and ethically in all engagements. Collaboration: Working in genuine partnership with stakeholders to achieve shared goals. Innovation: Continuously seeking and applying new ideas, technologies, and approaches to enhance impact. Equity: Championing inclusive education that addresses disparities based on gender, income, and geography. These values are embedded in the organization’s culture and guide decision-making at every level. Education Development Trust measures its success not only by financial performance but by the measurable improvements in learning outcomes and the empowerment of educators and communities.

Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

Education Development Trust’s strategy for 2025-2030 centers on three pillars: Deepening Impact, Scaling Innovation, and Building Resilience. The trust aims to double its reach to 10 million learners by 2030 through expanded partnerships and digital delivery. Key initiatives include investing in adaptive learning technologies that personalize instruction, expanding the Leadership Pathways program to train 100,000 school leaders by 2028, and launching a Climate Education Initiative to integrate sustainability into curricula. Financially, EDT plans to diversify income streams by growing fee-for-service consultancy by 30% while maintaining grant-funded programs. The organization is also strengthening its monitoring and evaluation frameworks to provide robust evidence of impact, which in turn attracts more clients and donors. A significant focus is on regional decentralization, with new hubs in Africa and Asia to better serve local contexts. The trust’s digital transformation agenda includes migrating to a unified CRM platform and developing a remote delivery toolkit that can be deployed in fragile settings. In terms of talent, EDT is committed to becoming a diverse and inclusive employer, with targets for gender and ethnic representation in leadership. The future roadmap also includes strategic acquisitions of niche consultancies to fill capability gaps, particularly in early childhood education and vocational training. With a strong balance sheet and a clear vision, Education Development Trust is well-positioned to lead the global education sector into a new era of evidence-based, equitable, and resilient systems.

Products, Technologies, and Services

Education Development Trust offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to address the entire ecosystem of education development. Core offerings include:

• Consultancy & Advisory: Strategic planning, policy analysis, and system diagnostics for ministries and large education organizations.
• Teacher Professional Development: Blended learning programs combining face-to-face workshops with online modules, supported by a team of over 500 expert facilitators.
• Curriculum Design: Development of national curricula, learning materials, and assessment frameworks aligned with international standards.
• Leadership Development: The Leadership Pathways program, which uses coaching, peer networking, and action research to build capacity in school principals and system leaders.
• Research & Evaluation: Rigorous impact evaluations, randomized controlled trials, and qualitative studies to inform practice and policy.
• Digital Learning Platforms: The Virtual Learning Academy (VLA), which hosts over 500 courses in multiple languages, serving 200,000+ educators annually.
• EdTech Implementation: Assistance in selecting, deploying, and scaling technology solutions tailored to local contexts.
• Early Childhood Education: Programs focusing on play-based learning, parental engagement, and kindergarten readiness.
• Vocational & Technical Education: Design of TVET systems that align with labor market needs, including work-based learning models.
• Gender & Inclusion: Specialized interventions to address barriers for girls, children with disabilities, and marginalized groups.

Each service is underpinned by the Trust’s Innovation Lab, which pilots new approaches and scales what works. Technologies such as artificial intelligence for personalized learning and blockchain for credential verification are being explored. The organization’s intellectual property includes proprietary frameworks like the School Improvement Matrix and the Teaching Quality Index, which are used by governments worldwide.

Industries and Markets Served

Education Development Trust serves the primary and secondary education sector most extensively, but also has growing footprints in early childhood development, vocational training, and higher education leadership. Its primary markets are government clients in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. In the UK, EDT works with multi-academy trusts and local authorities to improve school performance. The trust also serves international development agencies (DFID, USAID), multilateral organizations (World Bank, UNESCO), and corporate foundations. Recently, EDT has entered the EdTech market by licensing its digital platforms and content to private education companies. The organization’s ability to work across diverse contexts—from conflict-affected regions to high-performing systems—makes it a versatile partner. Each engagement is tailored to the specific cultural, linguistic, and economic realities of the client. The trust’s market intelligence unit continuously monitors global education trends, enabling proactive adaptation.

Leadership and Management Philosophy

The executive leadership team at Education Development Trust is led by Dr. Stephen Doggett, a former teacher and education advisor with over 30 years of experience. The management philosophy emphasizes servant leadership, data-driven decision-making, and flat hierarchies. The organization operates through a matrix structure, combining functional departments (e.g., Programmes, Research, Finance) with regional clusters. This structure fosters collaboration and reduces silos. Leaders at EDT are expected to model the values of integrity and equity; for instance, every senior manager undergoes unconscious bias training and participates in a reverse mentoring program. The trust’s approach to performance management focuses on continuous feedback and development rather than top-down appraisals. There is a strong emphasis on distributed leadership, empowering country directors and program managers to make decisions close to the field. The board of trustees provides strategic oversight, with a majority having backgrounds in education, development, or governance. Overall, EDT’s leadership culture is one of humility, learning, and accountability.

Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

Education Development Trust regularly convenes stakeholders through flagship events such as the Annual Learning Symposium, which attracts over 500 policymakers, practitioners, and researchers. The trust also hosts regional policy dialogues in partnership with ministries of education, focusing on topics like teacher retention and digital equity. Community engagement is central to EDT’s identity; it runs a Volunteer Teachers Program that deploys retired educators to mentor early-career teachers in underserved schools. The organization’s staff are encouraged to participate in pro bono consulting for local charities. Additionally, EDT publishes an annual Impact Report that highlights successes and lessons learned, and it maintains active engagement on platforms like the Global Education Summit and WISE Summit. These efforts reinforce EDT’s thought leadership and strengthen its ties with the communities it serves.

Employees and Workplace Culture

With over 2,000 employees, Education Development Trust prides itself on a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive workplace culture. The trust offers competitive salaries, generous pension contributions, and flexible working arrangements, including remote and hybrid options. Employee resource groups for women, BAME, and LGBTQ+ staff provide safe spaces for dialogue and advocacy. Professional development is a priority: every employee has an annual training budget and access to the in-house EDT Learning Hub with over 1,000 courses. The organization consistently scores high on employee engagement surveys, with 85% of staff stating they would recommend EDT as a great place to work. Wellbeing initiatives include mental health first aiders, gym subsidies, and a four-day workweek pilot in select teams. The culture is described as purpose-driven and people-first, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Turnover rates are below the sector average, thanks in part to clear career pathways and internal promotion opportunities.

Job Details & Requirements for this Posting (Detailed)

Position: Director of Global Programmes

Location: Reading, UK (with international travel)
Salary: £90,000 - £110,000 per annum plus benefits
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer

Role Overview

The Director of Global Programmes will provide strategic leadership to EDT’s portfolio of international education projects, ensuring delivery on time, budget, and quality standards. This role oversees a team of 50+ programme managers, advisors, and M&E specialists across multiple regions. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of education systems in developing countries, strong business development acumen, and a track record of managing complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a global programme strategy aligned with EDT’s 2025-2030 roadmap.
• Lead the design and successful delivery of large-scale education programmes (budgets up to £50 million).
• Build and maintain relationships with donors, government clients, and partners.
• Spearhead business development efforts, including proposal writing and consortium building.
• Ensure robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks are in place across all programmes.
• Mentor and manage a diverse team, fostering a culture of excellence and inclusion.
• Report regularly to the CEO and Board on programme performance and risks.
• Represent EDT at international conferences and forums to enhance visibility.

Qualifications & Experience

• Masters degree in Education, International Development, or related field (PhD preferred).
• Minimum 15 years of experience in education programme management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in securing and managing large government or donor contracts.
• Deep knowledge of global education issues, including teacher professional development, curriculum reform, and EdTech.
• Excellent financial management and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to work effectively across cultures and time zones.
• Fluency in English essential; proficiency in French, Arabic, or Swahili a plus.
• Willingness to travel up to 30% of the time.

Why Join Education Development Trust?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the direction of a globally respected education charity. You will lead a talented team, influence national policies, and directly improve the lives of millions of learners. EDT offers a supportive environment, a competitive salary package (including 30 days annual leave, pension contribution up to 10%, and private medical insurance), and the chance to make a tangible impact. The trust invests in your growth through leadership development programs, external coaching, and opportunities to publish research. At Education Development Trust, your work is not just a job—it is a mission to create a more equitable world through education.

Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation (1200+ Words)

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, Education Development Trust holds an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews. Employees consistently praise the organization’s meaningful mission and collaborative culture. A typical review states: “Working at EDT gives me a sense of purpose. The colleagues are passionate, and the work truly changes lives.” Criticism sometimes revolves around bureaucracy and slow decision-making, but management has been responsive to feedback. The trust has a 92% approval rating for the CEO. Glassdoor reviews highlight the trust’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with many employees noting that their voices are heard regardless of role or background.

Indeed

Indeed reviews echo Glassdoor, with an average rating of 4.0 stars. Employees appreciate the flexible working arrangements and the opportunities for international travel. Many mention that the organization is people-oriented and invests in professional development. A common theme is that EDT’s compensation is fair compared to other charities, though some note that the pace can be demanding due to multiple concurrent projects. Indeed also shows a high “would recommend to a friend” score of 85%.

Gartner Peer Insights

As a consulting organization, Education Development Trust is featured on Gartner Peer Insights under the Education Consulting category. It receives an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 from government clients. Reviewers commend the trust’s deep expertise and evidence-based approach. One director of a national curriculum agency wrote: “EDT’s consultants brought a level of rigor and practicality that other firms lacked. Their tools were immediately applicable, and they truly engaged with our local stakeholders.”

Trustpilot

On Trustpilot, Education Development Trust has an excellent rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 500 reviews, mostly from teachers and educational leaders who have participated in its professional development programs. Typical comments include: “The online courses are superb—they are well-structured, interactive, and directly applicable to my classroom.” The trust’s support team is frequently praised for its responsiveness. Negative reviews are rare but mention technical glitches on the learning platform, which are usually resolved quickly.

G2

While EDT is not primarily a software company, its Virtual Learning Academy is listed on G2. The platform receives a 4.4 out of 5 rating. Users highlight its user-friendly interface, varied content library, and the quality of facilitator-led sessions. Some users wish for more advanced analytics features, which EDT is currently developing.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews for Education Development Trust headquarters show a rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on local searches. Visitors appreciate the friendly reception and professional atmosphere. The office is described as modern and accessible. Some reviewers note that parking can be challenging, but overall, the perception is positive.

LinkedIn Reputation

LinkedIn is a strong channel for EDT’s employer brand. The company page has over 150,000 followers and posts regular updates on projects, thought leadership articles, and job openings. Employee testimonials on LinkedIn reinforce themes of impact and growth. The trust’s content receives high engagement, with many posts sharing insights on education policy. The alumni network is active, with former staff often recommending EDT as a career accelerator. Overall, Education Development Trust is viewed as a premier employer in the international development and education sectors.

Why Organizations Choose Education Development Trust

Governments and donors select Education Development Trust because of its proven track record, contextual expertise, and commitment to sustainability. Unlike many consultancies, EDT operates as a charity, meaning profits are reinvested into programming. This aligns with client values and ensures a focus on long-term outcomes. The trust’s ability to draw on 50 years of experience across 40+ countries gives it a unique depth of knowledge. Additionally, its emphasis on co-creation ensures that interventions are locally owned and culturally appropriate. Clients also cite the trust’s robust M&E systems that provide credible evidence of impact. Flexible contracting options, including performance-based models, reduce financial risk for clients. Finally, EDT’s strong network of partners allows it to mobilize the best expertise quickly. In a sector where trust is paramount, Education Development Trust stands out as a reliable partner.

Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to Education Development Trust using the following contact details:

Address: Education Development Trust, 60 Queens Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 4AW, United Kingdom
Contact Number: +44 (0) 118 902 1000
Support Number: +44 (0) 118 902 1001
Helpdesk Number: +44 (0) 118 902 1002
Website: www.educationdevelopmenttrust.com

Official Social Media Presence

Education Development Trust maintains active profiles on major social platforms to share updates, research, and job opportunities. Follow them for the latest insights and engagement:

• LinkedIn:Education Development Trust LinkedIn
• Twitter:@EDT_org
• Facebook:Education Development Trust Facebook
• YouTube:EDT Channel

SEO FAQ Section

Education Development Trust’s mission is to transform lives by improving education outcomes for children, young people, and adults globally through evidence-based programs, capacity building, and systemic change.

Education Development Trust is headquartered in Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom, at 60 Queens Road, RG1 4AW.

Education Development Trust was founded in 1969 as the Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) and later rebranded in 2015 to its current name.

The Chief Executive Officer of Education Development Trust is Dr. Stephen Doggett, who has led the organization since 2021.

Education Development Trust provides consultancy, teacher professional development, curriculum design, leadership development, research and evaluation, digital learning platforms, and vocational education services.

Education Development Trust employs over 2,000 people globally, working across more than 20 countries.

Education Development Trust operates in over 20 countries including the UK, UAE, Kenya, Rwanda, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and others, with regional hubs in Reading, Dubai, and Nairobi.

Education Development Trust reports an annual revenue of approximately £120 million, derived from government contracts, donor grants, and fee-for-service consultancy.

Yes, Education Development Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales (number 1132602) and operates with a not-for-profit model, reinvesting surpluses into its programs.

The Virtual Learning Academy is Education Development Trust’s digital platform offering over 500 online courses for educators, serving 200,000+ learners annually.

Yes, Education Development Trust partners with national ministries of education, such as the UK DfE and the UAE Ministry of Education, as well as multilateral agencies like the World Bank and UNICEF.

Education Development Trust has received multiple honors, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (2018) and the International Impact Award (2022).

Current vacancies at Education Development Trust are listed on its official careers page at www.educationdevelopmenttrust.com/careers.

Education Development Trust fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and purpose-driven culture with flexible working, strong professional development, and a commitment to employee well-being.

Yes, Education Development Trust offers flexible and hybrid working arrangements, including remote positions for certain roles, particularly in programme support and research.

Leadership Pathways is Education Development Trust’s flagship program for school leaders, using coaching, peer learning, and action research to build capacity in over 10,000 principals globally.

Education Development Trust employs rigorous monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks, including randomized controlled trials and qualitative studies, to measure its programs’ impact on learning outcomes.

Education Development Trust is committed to equity and inclusion, with policies that promote gender parity, representation of ethnic minorities, and support for people with disabilities across its workforce and programs.

Yes, Education Development Trust runs a Volunteer Teachers Program and other opportunities for professionals to contribute their skills to education development projects globally.

Education Development Trust provides blended learning programs combining workshops, online courses, coaching, and peer networks, reaching over 500,000 teachers annually.

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