The Role of Agile Leadership in Enhancing Teacher Retention and Productivity for Organizational Success: A Study among Private Schools in Abu Dhabi

Abstract

Educational institutions increasingly operate in complex and rapidly changing environments, yet traditional leadership approaches often fail to adequately support teacher productivity and retention. This creates a critical need to explore alternative leadership models that respond more effectively to contemporary school demands. This study aims to examine the influence of agile leadership practices on teacher productivity and retention in private schools in Abu Dhabi. The main research question guiding this study is: How do agile leadership practices influence teacher productivity and retention in private schools in Abu Dhabi? The research adopts a mixed-methods design, drawing on data collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with teachers and school leaders across three private schools. The findings indicate that agile leadership practices, particularly supportive communication, shared decision-making, and adaptability, positively influence teachers’ motivation, professional engagement, and commitment to their schools. Additionally, the study reveals that when teachers perceive leadership as responsive and empowering, their intention to remain in the organisation increases. The study concludes that agile leadership offers a relevant and effective approach for enhancing teacher productivity and retention within the UAE context. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on educational leadership and provide practical implications for school leaders seeking to build more supportive and sustainable professional environments.