Pestalozzi International

Who we are

Pestalozzi International is dedicated to transforming the lives of thousands of disadvantaged children and young people in Africa and Asia. We provide comprehensive, holistic education that empowers these young minds to become future leaders and changemakers and pave the way for social mobility and economic growth. Our work impacts not just individual lives but entire communities, as our alumni contribute meaningfully to positive change in their countries and the world.

At Pestalozzi International, we focus on regions where the need is urgent, and the potential for change is great. Currently we help young people from the most marginalised communities break the cycle of poverty and become leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers in Zambia, Nepal and India. To date, over 2,700 children have graduated from our Future Leaders Programme, with nearly 34,000 children benefitting from our outreach programmes. 

Our work is inspired by Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi, a Swiss social reformer and educator. Pestalozzi believed that education is not just about knowledge. It should instead develop children’s Head, Heart and Hands - in other words, their minds, their character and their practical life skills. 

For this reason, the children we nurture though our programmes not only receive excellent classroom education (the Head). They also learn how to care for themselves and others, being required to volunteer locally (The Heart) and to develop practical life skills beyond the classroom (the Hands).

Pestalozzi International’s focus on girls and young women is woven into every programme we run across Zambia, India, and Nepal.  We recognise that girls face unique barriers to education, so two thirds of the children we select for our Future Leaders Programme  are girls. Our programmes provide holistic support that helps girls overcome obstacles and stay engaged with their studies, so that they can go on to become leaders and role models for other girls in their communities. 

90% of our alumni remain in their country of origin, becoming a new gneration of teachers, health professionals, entrepreneurs, aid workers and leaders equipped with the knowledge, compassion and skills to impact their communities positively. Together, we are creating a trail blazing group of pioneers inspiring those in their communities.

Our culture and values

Imagine a world where every child’s innate talents, empathy, and rich diversity of lived experience are nurtured. Where education instils the power to make informed decisions, fuels the fire of ambition, and inspires everyone to shape a brighter tomorrow for all humanity. At Pestalozzi International, we can – and want to achieve it with you. 

Our Values

• Caring
  We are heart-led, prioritising compassion, empathy, and the well-being of students, staff, alumni, and communities. Our work is rooted in our commitment to treating everyone as individuals, and our leadership is defined by treating others as we would want to be treated ourselves.
• Child-centred
  Inspired by Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi’s philosophy of “Head, Heart, and Hands,” we nurture intellectual, emotional, and practical growth. Through relevant and innovative education that prioritises well-being, we empower individuals to realize their unique potential and adapt to an ever-changing world.
• Respectful
  We celebrate diversity and equity, ensuring every voice is valued and heard. By focusing on gender equality, breaking barriers, and listening, we create a transparent community where everyone feels empowered to thrive.
• Catalytic
  We build the capacity of individuals and organisations with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take action for good. By fostering leadership and encouraging community engagement, we enable positive, sustainable change across generations.
• Ambitious
  We are committed to impact and building a sustainable future by addressing economic, social, and environmental needs. Through innovative education, vocational training and advocacy approaches, we ensure lasting impact and development in the communities we serve for the benefit of the world.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Pestalozzi International is committed to ensuring that the recruitment, selection and management of all employees will be fair, open and transparent and will comply with all relevant legislation. Personal information received will be  dealt with in the strictest confidence. Applicants will not be excluded from being considered for a position because of need, background, culture, religion, gender, disability or economic circumstances. Positions will be offered based on competency, qualification and enthusiasm for the position.