EtonHouse: Cultivating a Collaborative Culture for Educators and Staff to Thrive

EtonHouse International Education Group’s CEO, Singapore and Group CHRO, Evelyn Tay shares how a people first philosophy, inclusive culture and holistic approach to staff wellbeing have shaped its 30 year journey as a top employer in education.

At EtonHouse International Education Group, a people-first philosophy is not a statement on paper. It is a lived experience shaped by intentional practices, thoughtful leadership, and a deep belief that people are the foundation of meaningful education. This commitment to nurturing educators and staff has been central to EtonHouse’s journey as an employer of choice, where individuals feel valued, heard and empowered to grow.

Educators and staff celebrate EtonHouse Group’s 30th anniversary and a shared purpose of shaping the future through education.

Listening, Growth and Recognition at the Core

EtonHouse brings its people-first culture to life by creating structured and meaningful avenues for employee voice. Regular engagement surveys, dialogue sessions and ongoing conversations ensure that feedback is not only heard but acted upon, fostering trust and transparency across the organisation.

Professional growth is equally prioritised. Employees are supported through a range of internal and external development opportunities, empowering them to take ownership of their learning journeys. These initiatives are complemented by recognition programmes that celebrate contributions across all roles and levels, reinforcing the belief that every individual plays a vital part in EtonHouse’s collective success.

 EtonHouse’s educators participate in the International Study Group to Reggio Emilia, Italy, to strengthen their pedagogical understanding and reflective practice. 

Creating a Culture of Belonging and Empowerment

A strong sense of belonging at EtonHouse is shaped by everyday practices grounded in respect, trust and shared purpose. Open and transparent communication channels create safe spaces where ideas can be shared, acknowledged and valued. Employees are encouraged to explore new ideas with confidence, supported by continuous professional development that nurtures curiosity and reflective practice.

Distinctive learning experiences, such as the International Study Group to Reggio Emilia, allow educators to engage deeply with the transformative Reggio Emilia approach, strengthening pedagogical understanding and professional reflection. Meanwhile, initiatives like the Combined Professional Development Day bring educators together to exchange perspectives, build connections and grow collectively as a learning community. Empowerment is further reinforced by entrusting individuals with meaningful responsibilities and decision-making autonomy, cultivating a collaborative environment where people thrive together.

A vibrant reflection of EtonHouse’s living diversity, where we celebrate cultures, foster inclusion and bring cross-cultural connections to life.

Supporting Sustainable Work-Life Balance

In today’s fast-paced and hybrid work environment, EtonHouse recognises that sustainable performance is closely linked to wellbeing. The organisation’s formal Flexible Work Arrangement policy, aligned with TAFEP guidelines, provides clarity and consistency across teams. This is complemented by a dedicated Wellbeing Policy embedded within the Staff Handbook, which promotes psychological safety and access to wellbeing resources.

Leave provisions fully comply with MOM requirements and are enhanced by additional wellbeing-focused initiatives such as birthday leave. Leaders are equipped to hold proactive conversations around workload and wellbeing, enabling early intervention and timely support. Together, these practices foster trust, encourage balance and support healthy work rhythms

Shared experiences like Middleton Stories Under the Stars strengthen bonds among families, educators and staff.

Embedding Diversity and Inclusion in Everyday Practice

Diversity is a lived reality at EtonHouse, with educators representing a wide range of nationalities, cultures and language backgrounds. To ensure diversity translates into genuine inclusivity, deliberate practices are embedded into daily work. Teams are intentionally structured to bring together local and international educators across classrooms, curriculum planning and school committees, encouraging cross-cultural learning and collaboration.

Inclusivity is further strengthened through shared experiences such as cultural celebrations, intentional inclusivity education and meaningful community engagement initiatives. Events like Middleton Stories Under the Stars bring the community together in a Reggio-inspired setting, fostering authentic connections and a strong sense of belonging among educators, families and students.

EtonHouse community come together to support children and youths from disadvantaged backgrounds through the 30 Years in Motion: The EtonHouse Challenge

A Holistic Approach to Employee Wellbeing

Employee wellness at EtonHouse is supported through a holistic approach that integrates physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection. Regular health screenings encourage proactive care, while initiatives such as 30 Years in Motion: The EtonHouse Challenge connect movement with purpose—uniting staff and the wider community to support children and youth from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Mental and emotional wellbeing is strengthened through a unique partnership with The Contentment Foundation, offering mindfulness sessions and practical tools for resilience. Social connection is nurtured through appreciation gatherings, team-building experiences and celebratory events, allowing employees to recharge beyond daily routines. Corporate partnerships further extend wellbeing support to employees’ families, reinforcing EtonHouse’s belief in holistic care and community.

A Top Employer

EtonHouse’s recognition as a top employer is a testament to the enduring trust that educators and staff have placed in the organisation across more than three decades. It is also a reflection of how a company’s core strengths, built on a people-first philosophy, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to holistic wellbeing, can drive lasting impact in the education sector. By aligning purposeful leadership with meaningful professional development, EtonHouse has consistently created environments where individuals feel valued, empowered, and inspired to grow. Looking ahead, the organisation remains committed to nurturing its people with the same care and intention that its educators bring to every child they teach, earning its place as a trusted and influential employer, not just for today, but for generations to come.

EtonHouse International Education Group received the Top Employer Award for the Education category at the Asia CEO Summit & Awards Ceremony 2026 held at the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore. (Guest of Honour: Mr. Heng Swee Keat, Chairman of the National Research Foundation and Former Deputy Prime Minister)

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