KHDA issues new rules for Dubai teachers moving between schools
<h3>Dubai Private School Teachers Face Stricter Regulations Under New KHDA Guidelines</h3><p><strong>Dubai:</strong> Teachers and school leaders in Dubai’s private education sector will now adhere to <strong>tighter regulations</strong> when joining or transferring between schools, under new rules issued by the <strong>Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)</strong>. The updated framework aims to <strong>raise teaching quality, reduce staff turnover, and provide classroom stability</strong>, ensuring students experience consistent learning throughout the academic year.</p><h3>KHDA’s New Technical Guide</h3><p>The reforms are outlined in KHDA’s <strong>Technical Guide for Appointing Teaching Staff</strong>, which introduces higher standards for recruitment, professional conduct, and accountability. Schools must now conduct:</p><p><strong>Thorough background checks</strong></p><p><strong>Multiple reference verifications</strong></p><p><strong>Detailed interviews assessing qualifications, experience, safeguarding, and appropriate use of technology</strong></p><p>KHDA says these measures align with <strong>international best practices</strong> and are designed to <strong>protect students</strong> while maintaining Dubai’s position as a <strong>global education hub</strong>.</p><h3>Appointment Notice: Linking Teachers to One School</h3><p>A key update is the <strong>Appointment Notice</strong>, an official document that formalizes employment at a single school. Teachers cannot work at multiple schools simultaneously. If moving schools, the previous notice is canceled, and a <strong>new one must be issued</strong> before employment begins.</p><p>This system reduces <strong>mid-term disruptions</strong>, ensuring smoother classroom operations and <strong>continuous learning</strong> for students.</p><h3>Exit Surveys to Monitor Teacher Turnover</h3><p>KHDA has made it mandatory for <strong>teachers leaving a school</strong> to complete an <strong>Exit Survey</strong>. The data collected helps:</p><p>Identify reasons for turnover</p><p>Address workforce challenges</p><p>Support policies aimed at improving <strong>staff retention</strong></p><h3>The 90-Day Rule</h3><p>Teachers and school leaders transferring between schools must now:</p><p><strong>Serve their full notice period</strong> as per their contract</p><p><strong>Complete the current academic term or semester</strong></p><p><strong>Submit the KHDA Exit Survey</strong></p><p>Failing to meet these requirements triggers a <strong>90-day waiting period</strong> before a new Appointment Notice can be issued. This period starts from the resignation or departure date. The waiting period may be waived if the only pending step is the Exit Survey.</p><h3>Deregistration Policy: Accountability First</h3><p>The new rules also introduce a <strong>deregistration mechanism</strong>. If a teacher is dismissed for misconduct, poor performance, or capability issues, KHDA must be notified. In serious cases, teachers may be placed on a <strong>Deregistration List</strong>, barring them from teaching in Dubai private schools.</p><p>This ensures <strong>student safety</strong>, protects the integrity of the education sector, and prevents repeat malpractice.</p><h3>Why These Changes Matter</h3><p>Dubai’s private schools employ thousands of teachers worldwide. Frequent mid-year departures have historically disrupted learning and increased pressure on school operations. The new framework is expected to:</p><p><strong>Enhance teaching standards</strong> across curricula</p><p><strong>Minimise classroom disruptions</strong></p><p><strong>Strengthen student safeguarding</strong></p><p><strong>Build long-term trust</strong> in Dubai’s education system</p><h3>Looking Ahead</h3><p>KHDA’s reforms strike a balance between <strong>career flexibility for teachers</strong> and <strong>stability for schools</strong>. As Dubai cements its status as a <strong>leading global education destination</strong>, these measures are set to ensure <strong>high-quality teaching, consistent learning outcomes, and stronger accountability</strong> across the emirate’s 200+ private schools.</p>